Caltech Hires New Director of Multicultural Education

O'Neal, who will take her post October 1, is currently associate director of development in the School of Humanities and Sciences at Stanford, where she served previously as an assistant dean in the School of Engineering and worked closely with faculty and students to create and implement academic enrichment programs for under-represented students.

A cum laude graduate of Harvard, O'Neal holds a master's of science and a PhD in higher education from the University of Pennsylvania. She has conducted research on the effectiveness of focused academic programs and has published articles on issues of diversity and academic preparation.

"The knowledge, experience, and commitment she brings to Caltech will contribute greatly to our efforts to increase the diversity of our undergraduate and graduate student populations and to enhance the educational experiences of all of our students," said Gary Lorden, acting vice president for student affairs.

O'Neal's dissertation focused on equity issues in undergraduate science and engineering education. She has done research at the American Institutes for Research in Washington, D.C., and served as the assistant dean for Engineering Diversity Programs at Stanford University where she designed and implemented the Stanford Summer Engineering Academy, a bridge program for entering freshman students from underrepresented minority groups and women.

"I am enthusiastic about joining the Caltech family and making new contributions that serve to increase diversity and build community among the student body," O'Neal said.

O'Neal also served as the resident fellow for Ujamaa, Stanford's African-American theme dorm for undergraduate students from all four classes.

MEDIA CONTACT: Jill Perry, Media Relations Director (626) 395-3226 [email protected]

Visit the Caltech media relations web site: http://pr.caltech.edu/media