Yingling Named Director of Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education

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Leslie Yingling

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Leslie Yingling, who has eight years of experience working with students from underserved backgrounds, is the new director of the Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education, effective January 5. She previously worked as director of the College Access Initiative, also a part of the Division of Diversity and Community Relations.

As director of the Center Yingling will preside over a restructuring that brings the Multicultural Center and College Access Initiative closer together. The goal is to improve coordination of college readiness programs and college retention efforts, working to prepare students from underserved populations to attend college, then helping those who attend the U of A to succeed and graduate.

“I am very excited about this new challenge,” said Yingling. “Improving retention and graduation rates serves diversity and it serves the university. At the same time I plan to increase the presence of the Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education on campus – to bring events and speakers to campus that are timely and relevant to the entire community.”

The Center for Multicultural and Diversity Education provides academic, cultural and social programs intended to promote inclusiveness, foster achievement and assist in the development and advancement of a diverse student body.

“I am confident that Leslie is the right person for this job,” said Charles Robinson, vice chancellor for diversity and community relations. “She has proven her passion and commitment for helping students from a variety of backgrounds get to college and advance their lives. She understands the importance of diversity – and the broad range of students who are served through the Center.”

Yingling graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2005, with degrees in journalism and political science. She joined the U of A staff full time in 2007, directing pre-college outreach programs.