Syracuse University’s College of Professional Studies announces the appointment of Tyler Bell, M.S., as director of diversity and inclusivity excellence and assistant teaching professor.
In this new role, Bell will lead, develop and implement strategies to align the College of Professional Studies’ mission with DEIA (diversity, equity, inclusion and access) initiatives with the University’s strategic planning processes and academic programs. He will also consult and partner with University departments to advance efforts across the college to provide a welcoming and affirming environment for all part-time Syracuse University students.
“The College of Professional Studies is committed to leading, developing and implementing equity, diversity, inclusion and access in everything we do,” says Dean Michael Frasciello. “Tyler plays a critical role in how we collectively address and facilitate community engagement and education on matters of diversity, inclusion and social justice for all faculty, staff and students.
Additionally, as part of his appointment, Bell will lead and coordinate the curriculum and teaching of two new courses that all part-time Syracuse University students are now required to take, beginning in the Fall 2021 semester. These courses are designed to provide an educational and cultural foundation for the successful transition to university-level studies.
“As an emerging scholar in cultural foundations, Tyler is uniquely trained to champion the importance and value of diverse and inclusive work and learning environments. He is deeply committed to higher education, particularly in creating opportunities for access to learning for post-traditional students,” says Dean Frasciello.Bell has been a part of the Syracuse University community since 2007 when he began his undergraduate studies. A native of Brooklyn, Bell followed in the footsteps of his older sister who attended the University as an undergrad and is a College of Law alumna. He earned a bachelor of arts in history, with a minor in Chinese studies, in May 2011, followed by the completion of a master’s of science in social studies education in 2012.
From 2012 to 2017, Bell served as a social studies teacher and department chair at two high schools in New York City. His work there was highlighted by entertainment personality Steve Harvey during a segment on The Meredith Viera Show on NBC.
In 2017, Bell returned to the Syracuse University campus to pursue his doctoral degree in cultural foundations of education with an expected completion in 2022. He worked as a part-time student employee at the College of Professional Studies for four years. The highlights of his experience include serving as an adjunct professor, a teaching assistant and a mentor for students in the School of Education. He also collaborated with the Office of Pre-College Programs to mentor students from marginalized communities in Syracuse, Boston and New York City.
According to Bell, his life and educational journey have led him to his new position at Syracuse University. With a focus on DEIA, he is a firm believer in educational access. “Access is what creates opportunities for students, especially for post-traditional students,” says Bell. “Equity, diversity and inclusion allow us all to thrive.”
Dean Frasciello concurs, observing that Bell is, “well-known throughout the college and the university as an innovative thought leader and emerging scholar in the areas of cultural awareness, education, equity and social justice. Tyler provides the insightful leadership required as we purposefully embed equity, diversity, inclusivity and accessibility throughout and across the College of Professional Studies.”