On Feb. 24, the United Way of Central Indiana will be hosting ELEVATE — the organization’s signature event that raises funds while also highlighting Indianapolis’ philanthropists, activists and volunteers who are making a day-to-day impact on the community.
One of our very own, inaugural Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Ellise Smith has been selected by United Way as a finalist for the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Advocate of the Year award .
Q&A with Ellise Smith
Question: What was your reaction to being selected as a finalist?
Answer: It was humbling yet exhilarating. My goal is to make space and change in people’s lives. For somebody to see that through all aspects of my work was just one of those moments that reminded me “you’re headed in the right direction, but don’t ever forget the purpose of the work.”
Q: How can IU Indianapolis support your nomination?
A: By voting for People’s Choice by Feb. 24! Each $1 gift equals one vote toward the nominee. If I win, I’ll open up the conversation to the division to help pick a charity that aligns with our DEI values. And if I’m not chosen, donations still go to a great cause (United Way).
Outside of the DEI award, The People’s Choice award is really where I want to show that there’s a commitment, not just from myself. To make change, we have to move in waves. My hope is to sit down with the division and say, “Where do we want this money to go? How can we further strengthen our connections with our surrounding communities?”
Q: Describe the type of DEI work you do out in the community.
A: For my master’s program at IU, I focused on my personal brand Fatness Fiction — which centers on body diversity and positivity by challenging people to go beyond what they already assume of someone because of how they look.
To push this conversation further, I used my work as a photographer to bring body positivity and diversity through the lens. Recently, I did an exhibition with the Cultural Arts Gallery to highlight my work and engage with the community on this topic.
I’ve also taught at multiple universities and hosted summits centered around DEI. My PhD studies, job and research all align, and I think that’s where I have my benefit. All of it informs and integrates into each other, so I’m never away from this work.
Q: Describe your DEI work within Student Affairs.
A: Since starting as the director, I’ve developed a Critical Conversations and DEI Certificate series, been involved with the division’s strategic plan and its dedication to DEI and engaged in difficult conversations daily to support and hold Student Affairs staff accountable with our values.
DEI is important beyond just what popular culture may say. It actually has real consequences and outcomes depending on how we engage. We’re critically trying to make change. And to do that, how are we showing up in these spaces both at the university and in the community?
Congratulations on this recognition, Ellise! Learn more about United Way’s ELEVATE .
