Center for Inclusion and Diversity

Priya Mhlophe - Director, Student Success, Equity & Diversity

Bio: Hi, I’m Priya! I am a proud Black woman and first-generation college graduate from Gonzaga University. Being the first in my family to attend a university, I understand how daunting college may seem, especially if you are unaware of available resources that can help you along the way. That is why I love my position here; I am passionate about helping all students, especially those from minoritized populations, learn about available resources at SCC and throughout the Spokane community to ensure they thrive throughout their college journey.

Favorite place on campus: My favorite place on campus is the greenhouse. I love looking at all of the different plants and deciding which one to take home next!

Advice: Be comfortable with being uncomfortable because that is how you grow! The college experience shapes you as a person and you can grow so much if you get out of your comfort zone and keep an open mind!

What working in the Center for Inclusion & Diversity (CID) means to me: To be in a space that cultivates authentic relationships with people from so many different cultures is truly a blessing! I enjoy supporting, learning from and having fun with our students daily because ultimately when students succeed, we as a campus community succeed as well!   

Hi, I’m Cassandra, but you can call me Cass! Spokane is my hometown, and I am a graduate of SCC. Having built a career working within our local business communities, I have been extremely lucky to connect with a diverse group of people in multiple capacities. Many of those relationships have served as an inspiration to find a place where I can be of service and offer empathic support for those that need it most. I am truly passionate about education and believe that it is the greatest tool one can have. My goal will always be to connect students with support and resources, as well as actively help them to overcome barriers to their education.

Favorite Place on Campus: The library! There is something inherently calming and generally affirming about a space filled with books.

Advice for Students:Don’t be afraid to ask questions! There should be no shame in admitting knowledge gaps, because you don’t know what you don’t know. Asking questions is the first step to getting those answers.

What working in the Center for Inclusion & Diversity (CID) means to me: Being part of the CID is an exciting opportunity to work with our students towards their best futures, while also ensuring we’ve made a safe space for all. I feel truly blessed to be on this journey with them and to work with such great and caring people.

Elyse Kazadi - Retention Specialist

Bio: Ca Va, Jambo, malu kai. Greetings from some of the few languages I speak.

I’m Elyse an African American born in Congo and came to Spokane as a refugee. Part of me is shaped by multiple identities and lived experiences that have made me embrace resiliency and appreciate loving people. Love is one of my biggest and most important core values because it has a way to find our hearts and provide hope when our backs are against the wall. I love my role here at SCC because I get to walk alongside students while serving them. My summarized passions are to love people, walk humbly and seeking justice, which I can accomplish through the help of faith, family and friends.

Favorite place on campus: The bigfoot caf or the bakery. I mean you can’t go wrong with the place that feeds you.

Advice for students: The process of getting to the table is way important than the table itself. In a nutshell enjoy the whole journey so that you don’t miss the moon while looking for the stars.

What working in the Center for Inclusion & Diversity (CID) means to me: This means that I get a chance to grow with the community I serve. This means that we all get to participate in the journey of making SCC a place that embraces Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging.

Debbie Joyner - Multicultural Programs Supervisor

Bio: I am a woman of Afro-Latina heritage, raised by my Latina mother and Latino stepfather. The first time I felt the sting of not being fully accepted as Latina or Afro enough stands out vividly in my memory. That moment marked the beginning of my personal journey towards equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). How could anyone question my identity when I come from a blend of cultures? Seeking understanding, I delved into books and research, determined to embrace my complete self.

My EDI journey has been a path of self-discovery and acceptance, empowering me to confidently navigate any environment while staying true to myself. Embracing one's identity isn't always straightforward; it requires ongoing effort to authentically present oneself every day. This is why I am deeply passionate about EDI. I aspire to support our students in embracing their own identities, origins, and limitless potential in this world.

Favorite place on campus: Building 6 has to be my favorite place on campus. There is always something happening for our students in the building and there is always such a great vibe!

Advice: To our students, I urge you to prioritize self-care. Incorporate moments to catch your breath, engage in enjoyable moments, or simply unwind. Life rushes by, and our time here is limited, so why not dedicate some of it to yourself? You won't regret it!

What working in the Center for Inclusion & Diversity (CID) means to me: Being part of the CID brings exciting opportunities to connect with our students. I'm eager to lend a hand in any way possible. It's a true blessing to be here, and I'm thrilled to nurture relationships with our students and the broader campus community.