Wanda Heading-Grant Receives 2025 NADOHE Dr. Frank W. Hale Jr. Distinguished Service Award

The National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education (NADOHE), has selected Wanda Heading-Grant(opens in new window), vice provost for community, culture and engagement at Carnegie Mellon University, to receive the 2025 Dr. Frank W. Hale, Jr., Distinguished Service Award. Heading-Grant was recognized for her work and contributions in advancing the understanding of inclusive excellence in higher education.

“I am deeply honored to receive this Distinguished Service Award in higher education for equity, inclusion and belonging,” Heading-Grant said. “As a leader, I recognize that this work is not just a commitment but a responsibility — to act with intention, to challenge barriers and to create spaces where all individuals feel valued, respected and empowered to thrive.”

The Dr. Frank W. Hale, Jr., Distinguished Service Award is presented to an individual who has a robust record of consistent service; inclusive excellence; exercising innovative and courageous leadership; serving as a visionary in the field; exemplifying the philosophy, principles and practices of NADOHE; and contributing substantially to inclusive excellence in higher education.

This award was named in memory of the former vice provost for minority affairs and professor at Ohio State University. Hale, Jr., is remembered as a tireless crusader of 54 years for higher education, and leaves behind a distinguished legacy.

As vice provost for community, culture and engagement, Heading-Grant sets and drives strategies that enhance inclusive excellence across Carnegie Mellon. She also holds a faculty appointment as distinguished service professor in the Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy. Heading-Grant previously served in leadership roles at the University of Vermont.