Sherene Brantley to Chair President’s Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion

Sherene Brantley has been appointed chair of the President’s Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion at Duquesne University.

Established in 2018 by President Ken Gormley, the council is comprised of faculty, staff and students, and serves to sustain and advance Duquesne’s efforts to remain inclusive and welcoming as a university community.

“I’m pleased to announce I’ve appointed Sherene Brantley to serve as chair of the President’s Advisory Council on Diversity and Inclusion,” Gormley said. “The council members have worked seamlessly to build a solid foundation and an open dialogue. I’m confident that Sherene, a founding member of the council, will continue to build on that success—with your partnership—to help us continue to advance and enhance our efforts to remain an inclusive and welcoming community.”

Brantley serves as associate athletic director for academics and student services, a senior woman administrator and a deputy Title IX coordinator at the University. Her role as chair for the advisory council is effective immediately.

“More than ever, in today’s climate, it is vital to examine our campus culture, to ensure current and prospective students access their education and staff work in an environment that welcomes, celebrates and values their diversity,” said Brantley. “I am humbled and honored to stand beside fellow council members and serve the University in this role.”

Brantley, a longtime member of the campus community, first joined the University after being recruited to play volleyball at Duquesne. She earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology (2002) and a master’s degree (2004) from the McAnulty Graduate School of Liberal Arts. Brantley’s previous roles at the University include posts as an academic coordinator and assistant director in the athletics department. She served as assistant athletic director for nine years before being named associate athletic director in 2016.

“Sherene brings dedication to Duquesne’s mission as an alumna and as a strong advocate for our students and diversity and inclusion efforts,” Gormley said. “We are fortunate to have a professional of her experience and caliber step into this important role.”

Brantley recognizes the importance of the council and how it aligns with and supports Duquesne’s mission. “The council is explicit in the University’s mission, and its Spiritan heritage is a value of inclusion and respect for diversity,” she said. “The President’s Advisory Council is, and will be, critically and strategically focused on adherence to and assisting President Gormley in moving forward the Spiritan vision and mission in a modern environment.”

Prior to her work as a deputy Title IX coordinator, Brantley served on the Student Conduct Board. She is a current member of the NCAA Division 1 Volleyball Committee and is a past chair/member of the NCAA Committee on Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct.