Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs Darryl Arrington chats with students in the lobby of the Office of Multicultural Student Success. (DePaul University/Jeff Carrion)
With more than 30 years of higher education experience, Darryl Arrington, a Double Demon and assistant vice president for student affairs, oversees the Office of Multicultural Student Success, Federal TRiO and Access and Attainment programs, which provide a wide range of opportunities and services for underrepresented students.
"Ever since I stepped foot on campus as a prospective student, I've been positively impacted by the people I've met," Arrington says. "During my first DePaul visit, a biology professor went the extra mile by discussing his genetics research with me and answering my questions. Now as a staff member, I do my best to take the time to help my students and advocate on their behalf."
In his role, Arrington collaborates with university departments to devise strategies and share ideas that create positive, sustainable changes so underrepresented students — especially Black students — may enjoy an even better experience than he did.
"My own journey as a DePaul student and proud alumnus has informed how I mentor, encourage and support my students to grow and, ultimately, succeed," he says.
Arrington is part of the team that launched the Black Student Experience initiative, which allows Black students to connect with and befriend each other. Through annual on-campus events such as Sankofa retreats, Black Welcome Week, a "Black to DePaul" cookout, Black Excellence Awards and the Graduation Celebration for Students of African Descent, Black students have multiple opportunities to build peer relationships.
"My ultimate goal is to do what I can to help current and future generations of Black students thrive as a community. And Black History Month is a time to celebrate the many creative, brilliant things Black people have contributed to the areas of culture, arts, science and technology," Arrington says. "I take pride in our resilience and how we've found ways to thrive amidst our painful, storied relationship with America. And I'm hopeful that our Black youth will find inspiration from learning about the many achievements of our ancestors."