The university is mourning the passing of Rhae-Ann Booker. She was the first executive director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Davenport University, and she led the university’s efforts for more than eight years, leaving in 2019. Booker is remembered as a tireless and committed advocate for advancing equity and inclusion system-wide.

While at Davenport, she designed and executed the methodology and metrics that established benchmarks the university could use to measure its success in the area of inclusion and equity.  She integrated training and development for the university community, including in the areas of global and intercultural competency. Booker was known for creating and maintaining strategic partnerships with local and national organizations that benefited the university community.

Davenport University President Richard J. Pappas said Booker’s impact was tremendous.

“Rhae-Ann’s passion for creating and sustaining a culture that was inclusive and improved the organization and individuals’ lives was second to none,” Pappas said. “Our community was better because of her work and her impact will continue to be felt. She will be missed.”