If she had had the opportunity to interact with Black-centric student supports when she began studies her transition from high school to the University of Windsor would no doubt have been smoother, says Kaitlyn Ellsworth (BA 2014).

Now Black student support co-ordinator in the Office of the Vice-President, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion, she says her experience in a Black studies program at Wayne State University in Detroit helped prepare her for this role, which she took up in November.

“Having Black academic advisors, counsellors, professors, and staff allowed me to exist fully in my Black identity in those spaces for the duration of the program,” Ellsworth says.

She hopes that her office can help students navigate what can be a rocky journey through University systems.

“The Black student support co-ordinator is an important step in providing equitable access to services and supports at the University of Windsor,” says Ellsworth. “The University of Windsor houses a unique Black student population that deserves culturally responsive and equitable supports.”

She invites students, faculty, and staff to contact her at blackstudentsupport@uwindsor.ca.