Whitten Recognized for Life’s Work

By Christian Starkey/ASU Student Intern

Dr. Linwood Whitten, director of Diversity and International Affairs and the Title IX coordinator at Alabama State University was recently honored for his life’s work and dedication to diversity.

Whitten received the Outstanding Contributions to Student Engagement award at the NASPA-AL Drive-In Conference in Birmingham. The conference brings together Student Affairs professionals from across the state of Alabama.  

The prestigious award recognizes a person who has made a significant impact on student programs at their institution. 

“This award is the reason why I chose this career - to be an advocate for students and to train the next generation of thoughtful leaders,” Whitten said. 

Under Whitten’s leadership in the Department of International Affairs,  he has established programs and educational services for students with diverse cultures; and he oversees diversity projects, such as the  International First Friday Mixers, the Miss Diversity International Pageant, and International Student Meet and Greets. These programs, Whitten said, work to ensure equality for all students, faculty and staff. 

“I am most proud of teaching these students the sincere meaning of servant leadership and inclusion through serving their fellow peers in the River Region area with true Hornet Pride,” Whitten remarked.

Whitten said his priority is to ensure student success.  

“I try to engage with students to find creative ways to make them feel a level of comfort where they can be successful,” Whitten said.