A Q&A with Diversity and Inclusion Director Romona West

Romona West, J.D.
Director of Diversity and Inclusion
William Fulbright College of Arts and Sciences

In this conversation, West talks about how excited she is to be a part of the Fulbright College family; her passion for legal studies, diversity and inclusion and human resource management; the value of authentic interactions with people; being a Razorback fan and movie buff; and her love of education and giving back to the community.

Q: Tell us a little about your research, academic passions and/or role within the college. What excites you about this?

My academic passions are based in legal studies, diversity and inclusion, and human resource management. I love people and my goal has always been to help the underserved know their rights and obligations.

I’m super excited about my new role as Director of Diversity and Inclusion for Fulbright College. I hope to help build a more diverse and inclusive environment as well as be a key resource for the college.

Q: What made you want to join the Fulbright College team? What are you most looking forward to working on?

It is a privilege to work on the Fulbright College team. I was most attracted to Fulbright College by the diversity and inclusion work that is sets before the college and Fulbright College’s current D&I initiatives.

I’ve also heard (and experienced) great things about Fulbright College’s leadership team, faculty, staff and students. Fulbright College has a great reputation on campus!

Q: What do you most hope your students or colleagues remember from their classes and/or interactions with you?

I hope my interactions with faculty, staff and students release the person’s best self.

What I mean by “best self” is the ability for the interactions to be genuine and authentic.

I want the interactions to allow for various perspectives to be shared, respectfully.

Q: What do you like to do during your time outside of the university?

I like to cook, garden, watch movies and travel with my family. I love theme parks, as well!

I’d be remised if I didn’t mention that me and my family are big Razorback fans. We love attending the football and basketball games. Go Hogs!

I also serve as a board member for the Fayetteville Public Education Foundation. I chair the scholarship committee and serve on the grant committee. 

I love education and giving back to our community. 

Q: What’s up next on the horizon for you?

I want to focus on the diversity, equity and inclusion needs of Fulbright College and really get to know everyone.

Q: Is there anything else you’d like to add or let readers know?

My motto is “keep it all in perspective.”

I love fruity candy such as Skittles and Starburst.  

I truly believe in an open door policy. If you’d like to chat with me, feel free to stop by.

I also love ideation and collaboration. If you have ideas or thoughts about diversity and inclusion, please reach out to me.

I look forward to working with the Fulbright Family!