- Department:
- Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering
- Campus:
- IU Bloomington
Meet Lora Fox, an IU staff member who has learned to balance managing administrative systems, pursuing her master's degree, and making it to marching band events.
What is your current job position and how long have you been in that role?
I am the Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion at the Luddy School of Informatics, Computing, and Engineering. I have been in this role since July of 2017. Basically, I am in charge of creating a culture of inclusion within the Luddy School. I lead our diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives and ensure that the school is fulfilling their goals and commitments to those efforts.
Can you describe your career journey?
Well, that is interesting! I am a first-generation college student so; college was never really on the radar for me. During my undergrad, I studied biochemistry. I originally wanted to be a forensic pathologist. But after some time, I decided medical school was not the path for me. I had some great mentors at the time who pointed me towards the office of admissions. I interviewed there and became an admissions representative. A few months later, our Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs sat me down and talked to me about my future. This conversation led me to pursue a career in higher education and student affairs. I then applied to be in the Master’s program for Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis and fell in love with higher education and student affairs. I was offered a position at Wash U in St. Louis as the multicultural student affairs coordinator which introduced me to the world of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Long story short, I came to Indiana University to get my Ph.D in Higher Education and Students Affairs and have been here ever since!
How has your experience as a BIPOC woman in your industry been?
I am always a Black woman, first-generation college student in tech. All of these shape my experiences and the lens that I interpret my experiences through. One game that I can compare my experiences to is Pac-Man. I am Pac-Man, and the little dots are my accomplishments that I achieve but, I am always running from the ghosts. Think of the ghosts as different obstacles such as oppression, discrimination that tend to corner you. Every time they corner you, you lose a little bit of your life. What I mean by that is you lose a bit of your zeal, optimism, and hope. I feel like I am constantly avoiding the ghosts. You often feel like you are on your own, in a maze, but you have to keep playing the game.
What has been your favorite project you have worked on in the past?
The projects that I work on allow me to advocate for broadening participation in computing. I truly believe technology is the tool to level the playing field. I would not say I have one favorite project but, I love all projects that allow me to increase awareness for students who may not know about technology. I love projects that allow me to open one’s eyes and raise awareness about the opportunities in technology because anyone can do it.
What advice do you have for women and BIPOC looking to enter the tech field?
You can do it! Anyone can do tech! Know your worth but also know you are worthy. Know you belong. It is important to establish a support system and find sponsors. Practice self-care. Typically, when you are one of only a few in a field, it can be very tiring, and you can get fatigued easy. Remember – the world needs you! You have something to offer so please, enter the tech field!
What are your passions and hobbies outside of work?
My passion is helping others. I like to volunteer and do community service. I especially like helping college students figure their lives out. I also love music and travelling. Before COVID, I would travel at least once a month! I also like reading and dancing!