LISA R. ABSTON

Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Graduate College

Director of the Illinois Sloan University Center for Exemplary Mentoring

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Lisa R. Abston, Ph.D., is the inaugural Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Graduate College at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. In this role, Dr. Abston provides strategic vision and leadership to the DEI office. She oversees a comprehensive suite of services and programs to support students at every stage of their graduate journey. She’s a member of the Graduate College Cabinet and the Graduate College Council. Also, she leads the Graduate Diversity Council which is responsible for reviewing policies and providing guidance to ensure access and inclusivity for all graduate students. Through collaborative efforts with graduate programs across campus and external partners, Dr. Abston promotes equity and diversity through sustainable programming. Dr. Abston received a B.S. in Biology from Chicago State University and a Ph.D. from the Interdisciplinary Biological Sciences Program at Northwestern University.