Diane Jefferson receives Keeper of the Flame Award

Diane Jefferson, the director of Multicultural Student Affairs (MSA), was recognized with the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education’s (PASSHE) Keeper of the Flame award.

Jefferson began her career at Shippensburg University in 1984. In 1989, she became the director of the MSA Office.

Through her career and into today, Jefferson has worked hard to educate the SU community on diversity, equity and inclusion, and as a result builds leaders who can collaborate with people of all backgrounds and are culturally competent. Jefferson is dedicated to this goal, and she is a well-respected and valued member of the Shippensburg University family.

For the past 38 years, under Jefferson’s leadership, MSA has provided various student-organized and led events. Students, through organizing and leading these events, become leaders over time and learn to overcome challenges. Jefferson gives endless support for these students.

The Keeper of the Flame award recognizes individuals who create and promote diverse, equitable and inclusive environments. By doing this, a sense of belonging not only on campus, but in the world is created.

Ms. Di, as Jefferson is affectionately known on campus, will be formally recognized at PASSHE’s virtual Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Summit on Nov. 4. Students, faculty, staff and other PASSHE stakeholders are highly encouraged to attend.