Belonging at COD

students wearing green COD shirts smiling outside for a photo

Support for Students

College of DuPage is committed to greater equity, diversity and inclusion of underrepresented populations in our campus community through the development of proactive, strategic, and sustained initiatives.

There are over 80 student clubs at COD, offering opportunities to connect with academic programs, share interests, engage in social activities and enhance leadership and organizational skills. These extracurricular activities help students pursue both their personal and career goals.

Safe Zone

Duggan, Michael

Counseling

Counselor, Students With Disabilities

Phone: (630) 942-2845

Office Location: SSC 3358

Email: [email protected]

Michael Duggan

Global Education on Campus

Ajgaonkar, Shamili

Biology

Professor

Phone: (630) 942-2123

Office Location: HSC 1333

Email: [email protected]

Shamili Ajgaonkar

Africa and African Diaspora

Moorehead, Robert

Sociology

Professor

Phone: (630) 942-2032

Office Location: BIC 2557A

Email: [email protected]

Robert Moorehead

European Studies

Nikolova, Miglena

Languages

Associate Professor

Phone: (630) 942-3273

Office Location: BIC 2430D

Email: [email protected]

Middle East

Wolf, Leslie

Religious Studies

Professor

Phone: (630) 942-2172

Office Location: BIC 2E08C

Email: [email protected]

Native American Studies

Paris, John

History

Associate Professor

Phone: (630) 942-2064

Office Location: BIC 2433C

Email: [email protected]

John Paris

Student access and success in higher education continue to be impacted by the effects of systemic inequities. 

College of DuPage believes in the right to a high-quality education in an equitable and inclusive environment. 

Through intentional design, the College will ensure that each student receives the information, resources, and supports necessary to achieve their educational goals. Learn more about the Illinois Equity in Attainment Initiative.

At COD, we strive for excellence in creating an educational community where everyone belongs by following these definitions:

Diversity

Encompasses the multidimensional aspects of human identity, culture and experience.

Inclusion

A culture of belonging and empowerment where all people are welcomed, valued and celebrated for their contributions.

Equity

The removal of barriers to empower all to achieve their goals.

Belonging

Encompasses the feeling of being valued, accepted and connected to a group or organization. 

Respect Inclusion Support Equity (RISE) Team

The Respect Inclusion Support Equity (RISE) Team is composed of dedicated stakeholders representing various departments and roles across College of DuPage. Tasked with creating and implementing the College's comprehensive equity plan, the RISE team ensures that student success and equity are embedded in every aspect of college life.

Guided by the ethos of "Rising Together," the team evaluates and refines initiatives to support equitable opportunities and outcomes for all students. By analyzing data, assessing programs, and engaging in strategic planning, we address opportunity gaps, ensure fair access to resources, and create an environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and professionally. 

The RISE Team is proud to collaborate with the entire College of DuPage community, working toward a shared vision of student success and equitable opportunities for all. Together, we rise to meet the challenges of today while building a brighter future for tomorrow.

Contact Information

Nevien Shaabneh

Vice President, Organizational Development

Contact

Location
Berg Instructional Center, Room 1A04D

Phone
(630) 942-2211

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Whether you’re exploring, applying or planning your path, COD makes it easy to get started.

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