Senior Advisor for Access and Opportunity Turan Mullins, ’17, has been named an honoree for the 2021 St. Louis Business Journal Champions for Diversity and Inclusion Awards program. The program showcases individuals who, through their work, are truly championing the cause of making St. Louis a more inclusive place to live and work.

“To be recognized among other significant community leaders is a great feeling,” Mullins said. “This award recognizes all the work I’ve done over the past 12 years to build a diverse and inclusive learning environment at Maryville, in the community and for other organizations. I appreciate the opportunity to look back and celebrate the great work we’ve done and the lives we’ve changed.”

Mullins is one of 16 individuals and organizations who will be recognized on September 9 during the annual Champions for Diversity and Inclusion Awards event.

Mullins has dedicated his entire career to access and opportunity in education, serving in various roles in higher education and through his private consulting services.

At Maryville, Mullins provides thought leadership to promote a culture of inclusion. He develops, implements and assesses initiatives that create a more inclusive and socially just campus.

Amid the move to a flexible academic environment last year, Mullins worked closely with Maryville’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion and other senior leaders to support students in the virtual environment. This included creating new spaces and avenues for community building and social justice work.

Mullins is excited to assist with the Maryville Digital Development Project, that will help entrepreneurs of color in St. Louis develop new skills and navigate the demands of running a business online. The project is aimed to help small-business owners who were disproportionally impacted by the pandemic and already face systemic barriers to accessing financing and business resources.

Mullins received his master’s degree in Strategic Communications and Leadership from Maryville in 2017. He is currently pursuing his doctoral degree in Maryville’s Higher Education Leadership program. His research focuses on the experiences of Black male students on predominantly white college campuses including their catalysts for success.