Office of Inclusivity and Readiness

Measurable Impact

The Office of Inclusivity and Readiness equips students with the skills, support, and confidence to thrive in college and beyond. Through student-centered programs rooted in mentorship, leadership development, and holistic wellness, we are empowering the next generation of leaders.

By the Numbers

• 74% of students in the Office of Inclusivity and Readiness Thriving Leaders cohort identify as first-generation college students—a priority group outlined in our grant goals. Additionally, 68% identify with one or more historically underrepresented backgrounds.
• 110 students complete the Health & Self-Care training, showing an average knowledge increase from 26% to 96% on pre- and post-assessments.
• 350+ individuals—including CWU students, high school students, community college students & administrators—engaged in health and well-being awareness sessions hosted through CWU and partner events in 2025.
• 69 high school students participated in Cultural Intelligence training sessions facilitated by Dr. Krauss, supporting peer mentorship and early pipeline development.
• 47 participants, including students and administrators, attended the Daily Actions for Health & Self-Care workshop at the 2025 Student of Color Conference. The average assessment scores for this workshop increased from 24% to 90%, and 91% of participants reported feeling more prepared to manage their mental and physical health. Additionally, 25 individuals participated in the Cultural Intelligence workshop at the 2025 Student of Color Conference
• 88% of Thriving Leaders cohort members completed their individual development plans, which included one-on-one coaching sessions, setting academic, professional, and personal goals, and creating customized time-management plans with Office of Inclusivity and Readiness personnel.
• 100% of participating Thriving Leaders cohort students reported increased confidence navigating professional environments in follow-up evaluations and discussions.
• 100% of students shared that they’d love to participate again—consider this your invitation to join a Thriving Leaders cohort and build your confidence, goals, and connections!

Signature Programs

Daily Actions for Health and Self-Care

Offered 8 times across campus and community settings, this workshop helped students build sustainable wellness habits and manage stress through practical, research-based tools. Participants left with actionable strategies and saw significant improvement in awareness and goal-setting for personal health.

Cultural Intelligence Workshop Series

Presented 6 times in academic and community settings, this session explored the importance of cultural awareness in leadership and teamwork. Drawing on Hofstede’s dimensions and the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI), students gained tools for navigating diverse environments with empathy and confidence.

Real Talk: Emotional Intelligence in Action

Two interactive sessions helped students deepen self-awareness, communication, and resilience—critical skills for personal and professional success.

From Campus to Career

This practical workshop series prepared students to transition into the workplace with confidence. Topics included professional presence, networking, and goal setting.

CLA Mentorship Cohort

Ten CWU students were matched with CliftonLarsonAllen professionals for mentorship, career exploration, and a site visit to CLA’s Yakima office.

KPMG Mentorship Program

Twenty-two students engaged in long-term mentorship with KPMG professionals, working on personal development plans, setting career goals, and building industry insight.

KPMG Reaching New Heights Intern Summit

Held at KPMG’s Seattle office in May 2025, this immersive event brought 31 students together for mock interviews, career coaching, and real-time feedback from professionals. Dr. Krauss also facilitated wellness and cultural intelligence sessions as part of the summit.

Student of Color Conference

We brought wellness and cultural leadership to the 2025 SOCC through two high-impact workshops. The Health & Self-Care session drew 47 participants with post-assessment growth from 24% to 90%. The Cultural Intelligence session engaged 25 students in leadership development rooted in identity and intercultural awareness.

Real Student Growth

Students don’t just participate—they thrive.

• They gain clarity about their goals.
• They build confidence in their voice and leadership.
• They develop habits that support long-term success.

And they connect with mentors who believe in them.

I feel more confident about my future—and I’m not afraid to take the next step.

Many students shared they’d love to join again. We’re excited to welcome new cohort members as we grow.

The Office of Inclusivity and Readiness is made possible through a multi-year grant and partnership with the KPMG U.S. Foundation’s Reaching New Heights initiative. This national program is designed to expand equitable access to opportunities by investing in underrepresented students. Their support has empowered CWU’s College of Business to develop impactful programming, grow mentorship opportunities, and elevate students’ confidence and career readiness necessary for them to thrive and become the next generation of leaders.