West Hartford’s Kingswood Oxford School has hired Dr. Donique McIntosh, who brings a background in education, nonprofit, and faith-based organization work to the new position.

Submitted by Jackie Pisani, Kingswood Oxford School

Kingswood Oxford is very pleased to announce that Dr. Donique McIntosh has been named the new Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging, effective this August.

Dr. McIntosh has extensive experience in the area of diversity, equity, and inclusion practices (DEI) as both an educator and administrator. She earned her doctorate in social justice education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, the only program in the country that develops scholars and practitioners in this field at the doctoral level. Her dissertation research on the relationship between culture and perceptions of campus climate for a marginalized population of students provided her with tremendous insight into participants’ experiences and afforded her the opportunity to recommend policies, programs, and practices aimed at creating schools that are more diverse, equitable, and inclusive.

In addition to her time working in higher ed, she has worked with non-profits, faith-based organizations, and K-12 schools on their diversity and equity-related work.

Additionally, she has published in the DEI field and has presented at a multitude of conferences, and advocated for social change at the state and federal level.

Head of School Tom Dillow said, “Donique is a most thoughtful and empathetic individual who is a consummate relationship builder. She purposely seeks out opportunities to create diverse and equitable environments by collaborating with students, administrators, and faculty on new programming and advocating for underrepresented populations. I look forward to her leadership as we create a KO where all students feel a true sense of belonging.”

McIntosh will collaborate with the faculty to ensure the integration of an inclusive curriculum, design and facilitate workshops and training for the KO community.

McIntosh said, “I’m excited about joining the KO community. I’m looking forward to getting to know people, learning more about KO’s specific needs, and building on the foundation already laid. What excites me most, perhaps, is having the opportunity to support and nurture young people who are passionate about equity and inclusion.”

In addition to the doctorate, McIntosh earned master’s degrees from the University of Pennsylvania and the University of Tennessee after graduating from Fisk University as an undergraduate.

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