Inclusive Excellence in Engineering

Notre Dame Engineering aims to attract and support a vibrant community of students, faculty, staff, and alumni — one that reflects our shared commitment to the University’s values of inclusive excellence and fosters an environment where everyone can thrive. Inspired by Catholic social teaching, we strive to respect the dignity of every person; build a community in which all can flourish; and live in solidarity with all, particularly the most vulnerable.

A collage of students engaged in various STEM activities. In the top left, a professor and a student in a lab coat discuss research near a microscope. Below, a student collects a water sample from a stream. In the center, a student wearing a mask works with electronic circuits. To the right, two students analyze soil outdoors, and another pair assembles a project using robotic equipment. In the bottom left, a researcher in a white lab coat and safety glasses holds a small scientific device. In the bottom right, students conduct experiments in a classroom and work with plants in a lab. At the center, a large group of students stands on a staircase, smiling and posing with raised fingers.

In Fall 2020, a College of Engineering task force, appointed by Dean Patricia Culligan and chaired by then Associate Dean Ron Metoyer, evaluated every aspect of the College with respect to the College’s Inclusive Excellence initiatives and made recommendations for long- and short-term goals. For more details about the full task force report, contact Associate Dean James Schmiedeler.

College of Engineering Standing Committee on Inclusive Excellence and Engagement

Chair

James Schmiedeler, professor and associate dean

Faculty Directors of Inclusive Excellence and Engagement in each department

Yamil Colón (CBE) 
Christine Maziar (EE)
Tijana Milenkovic (CSE)
Hirotaka Sakaue (AME)
Antonio Simonetti (CEEES)

Staff representative

Annie Cahill Kelly (CEEES)

Dean’s office

Yvette Rodriguez, Wilma Sanchez Director of Inclusive Excellence 
Leo McWilliams, Assistant Dean for Undergraduate Programs
Elayne Swafford, Coordinator for Inclusive Excellence and Academic Conferences
Leonor Wangensteen, Advising Professor and Director of Academic Support Programs  

Contact

Yvette Rodriguez

Yvette Rodriguez
Wilma Sanchez Director of Inclusive Excellence 
yrodrig2@nd.edu

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