In becoming the first institution to win the NCAA and Minority Opportunities Athletic Association (MOAA) Award for Diversity and Inclusion twice, NIU Athletics demonstrated that its dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) goes beyond “plans” or words on a page.
In 2022, NIU earned the prestigious award through hard work by coaches, staff and student-athletes that turned a comprehensive DEI plan into action, making Huskie Athletics a recognized national leader in this important area.
“We are extremely proud to be the first two-time recipient of the NCAA/ MOAA Award for Diversity and Inclusion,” said NIU President Dr. Lisa Freeman. “Diversity, equity and inclusion are embedded in NIU’s mission, vision and core values. Huskie Athletics exemplifies our commitment to creating an inclusive university experience through their actions and their collaborations across our campus and community.”

NIU Vice President/Director of Athletics and Recreation Sean T. Frazier sees the values of diversity, equity and inclusion put into practice by NIU teams and staff every day.
“I’m extremely proud that NIU continues to carry the torch by providing a model that can be replicated across the country,” Frazier said. “Becoming the first institution to earn the award for a second time is a validation of what we have accomplished, as well as a recognition of our outcomes and ongoing commitment in this area.”
NIU was the 2016 recipient of the same award and has since expanded its efforts while responding to an increased awareness of social justice issues among today’s student-athletes.
Many of NIU Athletics’ DEI efforts are initiated by the department’s expanded Diversity Integration Group (DIG), chaired by Senior Associate AD Courtney Vinson. DIG members include athletics staff, coaches and student-athletes, representatives from the University’s Office of Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ADEI) and directors of NIU’s Diversity and Cultural Resource Centers. Their involvement has provided Huskie student-athletes and staff with access to programming and education.
Vinson said NIU’s program would not be successful without Huskie student-athletes’ dedication to creating an inclusive and accepting environment.
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