Herndon-Edmunds, Williams appointed to new roles at University

Shayla Herndon-Edmunds

In the University’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, Shayla Herndon-Edmunds has been appointed director of diversity education and J. Matthew Williams has been appointed director of communication.

Barbee Oakes, chief diversity officer and assistant provost for diversity and inclusion, described the appointments as supporting Wake Forest’s ongoing commitment to improve the campus climate and build an inclusive community.

Herndon-Edmunds joined Wake Forest’s staff in 2006.  Most recently, she was manager of diversity of education.

In her expanded role, Herndon-Edmunds will develop strategies to strengthen the cultural competence and intercultural skills of faculty, staff and students, giving special attention to the first-year experience for college students and new faculty development.

She will also oversee a cadre of volunteers trained to deliver the Gatekeepers Workshop Initiative, Wake Forest’s signature diversity education program. Since its inception, more than 1,900 faculty, staff and students have participated in the four-part series.

Additionally, her role includes strategic partnership with University Police, Academic Advising, Residence Life and Housing, the Pro Humanitate Institute, graduate and professional schools and other areas of the University.

Herndon-Edmunds received a Bachelor of Arts in English and Business Administration from George Mason University.  A licensed professional life coach, she is certified in emotional intelligence, unconscious bias and intercultural development.

Matt Williams

Williams joined Wake Forest’s staff in 2011.  Most recently, he was associate director of marketing and communication in the University’s Office of Personal and Career Development.

In his new role, Williams will oversee communication for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, as well as provide consultative support to the Intercultural Center, Women’s Center, LGBTQ Center and Diversity Education.  His position also includes strategic partnership with University Advancement (and its Communications and External Relations staff) and the Office of the President, where he will work with their leadership teams to elevate the University’s commitment to and promotion of diversity and inclusion to all University constituents.

Williams received a Bachelor of Arts in Communication at Wake Forest and is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in communication at the University.  His research centers on the intersections of digital media, identity and social justice.

For more information about Diversity and Inclusion, visit diversity.wfu.edu.