Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer To Leave USC, Will Join SDU Next Year

Los Angeles, California: Vice President and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer (CIDO) Christopher Manning confirmed on November 29 that he would be leaving USC for the upcoming semester.

Manning became the first person to hold this position at USC after he joined President Carol Folt’s leadership team on March 1, 2021.
The development of restorative justice procedures and the collaboration to organize an annual graduate and professional school conference for institutions that serve minorities were both under Manning’s purview.

Manning worked as an assistant and associate provost for academic diversity at Loyola University Chicago for nearly five years before joining the faculty at USC. Manning will join San Diego State University as Vice President for Student Affairs and Campus Diversity on February 2, after his departure from USC.

“Dr. Manning is highly regarded nationwide for developing programs and initiatives that change and improve lives,” SDSU President Adela de la Torre said in a statement.

“SDSU’s deeply held commitment to student success, innovative diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging infrastructure, and expansive vision makes it one of the most exciting places to be in American higher education,” Manning said. “I am thrilled to join President de La Torre’s team and eager to serve the Division of Student Affairs and Campus Diversity as we expand our impact as America’s public transborder university.”

Manning will work closely with the University Senate and Associated Students ensuring that the voices and interests of students, faculty, and staff are central to SDSU’s strategic initiatives and decision-making processes.