Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness

Group of students in Hammond at the pie in the face fundraiser

The Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness (CDI) delivers programs designed to contribute to a positive campus culture of appreciation and respect for differences. We can be reached at diversitycenter@fitchburgstate.edu or by phone at 978.665.3399 or 978.665.3701. We are located in Hammond Hall G04.

The Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness cultivates a welcoming and safe space for all members of the Fitchburg State University community and supports each person individually by recognizing and respecting all cultures, perspectives, and experiences. Through programming, mentorship, and dialogue we will provide opportunities for exploration, understanding, and celebration.

We coordinate and maintain a campus-wide program that reflects the university's mission to support the development of the whole person by engaging students in an inclusive environment through the following:

  • Promotion of active involvement
  • Collaboration
  • Education and leadership opportunities
  • Ensuring each students goal fulfillment

CDI is my "go to" place, especially after a tough day! It is also the place where I get the necessary encouragement, and guidance.

Michelle Valentin
Latin American Student Organization

We provide the tools of understanding and acceptance to diversity in its many varied forms. It is our mission to the Fitchburg State student, and its community, that they:

  • Be exposed to cultural diversity
  • Learn to be accepting of people and ideas not their own
  • Understand cultural differences as opportunities for learning
  • Develop techniques on how to best deal with diversity and social issues
  • Advance a student's personal, social, and emotional skills

The members of the Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness will design, plan, and oversee the delivery of various programs, such as:

  • Heritage Month Celebrations
  • Multicultural education
  • Cultural activities designed to contribute to a positive campus culture of appreciation and respect for differences

The center advises active, diverse student organizations such as:

  • Black Student Union
  • Latin American Student Organization
  • First Love
  • Asian Student Organization
  • African Student Association
  • Gay Straight Alliance

...including experiences like the following:

  • Latinx/a/o American Heritage Month
  • Black History Month
  • Women's History Month
  • LGBTQ+ History Month
  • Courageous Conversations/Cafecito and Conversation/Black Table Talk 
  • Conference Experiences such as: 
    • The Brotherhood and Sisterhood Conference Worcester State University
    • Yale University Black Solidarity Conference 
    • The Mount Holyoke College Trailblazers Conference 
    • The NASPA Latinx Student Leadership Conference
  • CDI Meet and Greets 
  • The UNITY Roundtable 
  • Annual Training and Workshops

One thing I will definitely miss here at Fitchburg State is the warm feeling of all of the cultural students being inside of CDI and making their space their own; a home away from home.

Lacrinia Dirtion
Biology Health Science Concentration Alum '24

CDI Office Staff

Headshot of Krysta Lopez from Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness
Director of Student Belonging

Krysta López, she/her/hers

Krysta is the Director of Student Belonging in the Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness at Fitchburg State University. She is a first-generation graduate, and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology and Chemistry from Worcester State University. She received her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Fitchburg State. During her time at Worcester State University, she had many different roles on campus, ranging from student administrative assistant, a tour guide, an RA, and an intern for the Commissioner for the City of Worcester. After completing her Bachelor’s degree, she has been working in Higher Education in different roles, but most recently as a TRIO Recruitment Counselor. Krysta is passionate about working with college students, assisting them in whichever way possible for a student to be successful with their academic goals. She's excited and eager to work with students and expand her knowledge of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. If interested in connecting with Krysta, please email her directly at klopez5@fitchburgstate.edu.
Read more about: Krysta López, she/her/hers
Selma Martey CDI.
Coordinator of Student Belonging

Selma Martey, she/her/hers

Selma earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health with a minor in Business Administration from Fitchburg State, where she was actively involved in campus leadership and student engagement. Selma was a founding member of the African Student Association (ASA) and the Caribbean American Student Association (CASA), where she played a key role in building community, leading large-scale cultural events, and fostering inclusive programming that celebrates diversity. In addition to her campus involvement, Selma has a background working with youth with mental and behavioral challenges, which has strengthened her ability to provide compassionate, student-centered support. Her experiences have shaped her commitment to empowering students from all backgrounds and ensuring they feel seen, supported, and valued on campus. She is especially dedicated to helping students navigate their college journey while building confidence, community, and a sense of belonging. Selma is excited to continue expanding inclusive initiatives and creating meaningful opportunities for student connection and growth. She looks forward to working closely with students and supporting them in achieving both their personal and academic goals. If interested in connecting with Selma, please email her directly at smartey@fitchburgstate.edu.
Read more about: Selma Martey, she/her/hers
Destiny Zayas selfie at graduation in cap and gown with Fitchburg State sweatshirt
Graduate Assistant

Destiny Zayas, she/her/hers

Destiny, our graduate assistant, earned her bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice and is currently pursuing her MBA, both at Fitchburg State. She brings her leadership experience as a former CDI student ambassador, Black Student Union executive board member, Senior committee Head chair, and involvement in organizations like student government and dance club. Destiny is dedicated to being a supportive anchor for students, offering guidance and encouragement drawn from her own journey. She’s thrilled to now serve and assist students in achieving their goals and overcoming challenges, ensuring they thrive both academically and personally at Fitchburg State. She hopes to greater the diversity and inclusivity on campus while providing students with a welcoming and safe space within the Center for Diversity and Inclusiveness. If interested in connecting with Destiny, please email her directly at dzayast@fitchburgstate.edu.

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