Dr. Elizabeth Olson, M.S.W.
Dr. Elizabeth Olson joined the College of ACES in January 2024 as the Associate Dean for DEI, the driving force behind the college’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. She leads efforts to energize faculty, staff, and students, developing strategies to foster an inclusive environment for all. By collaborating with college and campus leadership, Dr. Olson is working to build programs that support all students and employees in ACES. With a focus on data-driven decisions and long-term change, Dr. Olson wants to ensure that the goal of advancing equity and inclusion for all is woven into everything the college does.
Diana Rodriguez M.A.
Diana Rodríguez has worked for the College of ACES for nearly 10 years. As the Assistant Director of Inclusive Recruitment and Retention, she plays a key role in leading efforts to improve recruitment and retention through mentorship, career counseling, and specialized programs, ensuring that students from all diverse backgrounds feel supported throughout their academic journey. By working with high school students interested in pursuing an education in ACES and our current student body, Diana helps create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all students, making sure everyone has the tools and resources they need to succeed.
Cherisse Smith M.S.Ed
Joining the ACES Office of DEI team in February 2025, Cherisse Smith brings amazing resources and growth to the college as the Coordinator of DEI Education. Cherisse works to create engaging opportunities for students, faculty, and staff to explore and enhance their understanding of topics related to diverse cultures, perspectives, and experiences. She leads workshops, trainings, and educational programs that foster a more inclusive community, and prepares our community to work within a diverse global society. From guest speaking in classes to creating helpful materials and collaborating with university partners, Cherisse is helping the ACES community deepen their commitment to equity and inclusion for all.
Dr. Matthew Rivas-Koehl
Dr. Matthew Rivas-Koehl joined the College of ACES in 2021 as a doctoral student in Human Development and Family Studies. After earning his PhD, Dr. Rivas-Koehl served as an adjunct instructor in the College of ACES, and worked as a Research Scientist at Child Trends. He joined the ODEI staff in January 2026 as a Visiting Postdoctoral Research Scientist. In this role, he is using data from the ACES Climate Assessment to help the college better understand the experiences of students, faculty, and staff. Dr. Rivas-Koehl will support the college in making data-driven decisions to advance equity and inclusion for all College of ACES members.
Mattie Fash, M.F.A.
Mattie Fash joined the College of ACES in January 2026. As the Office Support Specialist for ODEI, Mattie serves as the administrative backbone, supporting the incredible work of the team at every turn. Having worked at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign for five years before joining the College of ACES, Mattie has seen firsthand the power of equal access and the joy of an inclusive community. She has dedicated herself to supporting these efforts for the ACES community in whatever ways possible.
