As the Case School of Engineering’s Diversity Liaison, Lauren Biddlecombe has a key piece of advice for fostering an inclusive environment on campus: “listen, listen, and then listen some more.”

“In addition to advancing one’s personal growth,” the assistant dean of strategic initiatives, said. “A listening mindset builds a culture of trust and connection to one another and provides the foundation for actions and initiatives which advance our shared goals of a diverse and inclusive campus environment. It all starts with listening.”

Motivated by the opportunity to work with and learn from the other members of the Diversity Executive Advisory Council (DEAC), Biddlecombe shares that the group’s impact on the community is an inspiration. This year, she plans to make the student experience a primary focus.

“I am constantly thinking through how we leverage our resources to provide the absolute best possible growth experience for our students and create paths toward success,” she shared. “Particularly for students from backgrounds traditionally underrepresented in STEM.”

One way she’s already done so? With expertise from Vice President Robert L Solomon, Associate Vice President Heather Burton and a group of alumni, Biddlecombe and other engineering leaders developed the Case Advancement Fellows—a cohort-based program for outstanding PhD students who contribute to the culture of diversity within the school. The program provides fellows with mentorship opportunities, professional development and networking experiences, and a community of support and success who work together to broaden perspectives and engagement of the school as a whole. Biddlecome is quick to point out how the leadership of the students themselves has driven the success of the program. 

"Key members of the first cohort of Case Advancement Fellows were instrumental to bringing this program to life," Biddlecombe shared. "It is a testament to their leadership and dedication that the group has grown in its vitality and impact. I look forward to seeing how these leaders will continue to make an impact on our school and on society."

While her efforts directly impact students, it also extends throughout the university and even beyond campus. In the last four years, the school has hired a talented and diverse group of new faculty members and revitalized the outreach programs that are offered to students from neighboring schools in Cleveland, like the Envoys program.

“None of these things were or could be accomplished alone,” she shared. “This is another reason I am so glad to work at a place like CWRU, where community members can come together to create positive change and everyone has the opportunity to take pride in their contributions toward meaningful efforts.”