Katrina Rugless
T
he University of Pikeville recognizes the importance of creating pathways to higher education for all students and the value of building a strong and diverse campus community. In line with this commitment, UPIKE welcomed Katrina Rugless to the Bear family as the university’s first director of diversity in 2021.
“My vision is to imbed diversity, equity and inclusion into the fabric and DNA of UPIKE,” said Rugless. “We should look at diversity beyond numbers and data. The individual should be at the center of everything.”
“As an African American female in environments where I didnʼt feel seen, heard, or like my input mattered, I want to ensure the environment at UPIKE is a place that attracts and retains diverse students and staff,” said Rugless. “But, more importantly, I want the students and staff to feel that this is an environment where they belong and can succeed.”
“My approach to this work is developing shared goals, having shared accountability for achieving those goals and celebrating our collective success. It’s our work, not just my work,” said Rugless. “By building meaningful partnerships and with buy-in from the decision-makers of influential departments, this work will succeed.”
Having spent the last two decades serving in higher education in director-level positions, Rugless has the professional background and experience needed to design and implement programs that support UPIKE’s diverse student body, spanning 48 states and 17 countries.
Rugless’ primary role is to provide leadership in developing and implementing a wide array of strategic initiatives that engage all faculty, staff and students, considering the critical importance of engaging people with diverse experiences and perspectives. Rugless also mentors and supports diversity-oriented student groups. 10
UPIKE MAGAZINE | SPRING/SUMMER 2022
In her first year with UPIKE, Rugless is already making an impact. She has developed a diversity committee whose members include staff from human resources, student success, the disabilities office and more. Her idea was to gather those who are influential in students’ lives, representing diverse groups and initiatives on campus.
Rugless has revitalized the Black Student Union and brought new events to campus for Black History and Women’s History Months. She is also working closely with Pride+ and partnering with the Campus Activities Board to support international students and other groups to address campus issues and bring people together to collectively create solutions.
