University of Michigan President Mark Schlissel says he wants a vice provost to serve as the school's first chief diversity officer as part of broader efforts to improve diversity.
Schlissel said Wednesday that Robert Sellers' appointment will go before the Ann Arbor school's Board of Regents on Oct. 20. The position is being created primarily to lead the implementation of the universitywide diversity, equity and inclusion strategic plan that's being unveiled Thursday.
Black students at the school have complained about how they are treated by some white students and about the relatively low number of African-Americans enrolled. Students, faculty and staff have rallied after racist posters were found last month.
Schlissel said Sellers' "leadership and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion make him the ideal person" to lead the effort.
