Meet Diversity & Inclusion Leaders at Harris

Hi, my name is Sparkle Dalphinis, and I am the Associate Director of Student Recruitment and Global Outreach at the Harris School of Public Policy. In my role, I provide outreach and support to members of diverse communities and develop programs and events to ensure talented, underrepresented students have the opportunity to explore Harris.

I also provide support to students through the graduate school application and transition process. I'm happy to answer any question you have about your application! You can reach me directly by email at sdalphinis@uchicago.edu.

This past year has presented many challenges for our students due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, incidents in our country surrounding race relations with the police have placed a heavy burden on our students and community. During the pandemic, I was impressed by students and colleagues. Their genuine concern for others shined through in their proactive effort to volunteer their time, make home visits, deliver groceries, and to check-in on friends and colleagues. What I have always known about the Harris community—that they are committed to social justice and community impact—became more prevalent during these times. Some opted to volunteer through outside organizations while many utilized their networks via Harris Student Organizations.

I strongly encourage you to get to know our remarkable students and student organizations at Harris. There are more than 30 student organizations including Minorities in Public Policy Studies (MiPPS), Black Action in Public Policy Studies (BAPPS), OUTPolitik, and Latin American Matters. Getting involved in a student organization is a great way to build community, network with professionals in your area of interest, and address policy issues impacting marginalized communities. In addition, I highly recommend you check out our Harris student led podcast Kinda Sorta Brown, which is a conversational deep dive into how intersectional identities influence a variety of policy areas. I must say, I am a super fan of the show. Given recent events, these conversations surrounding identity are conversations we are all encouraged to have.

We will also host a Diversity and Inclusion Event Series from November 5–7, which gives prospective students an opportunity to sit in on a virtual class, connect with current students, faculty, and alumni, and learn more about the support Harris offers to underrepresented and first generation college students. Stay tuned for Diversity Day 2020 details.

Meet Harris students and alumni who work to promote Diversity & Inclusion

Alma Juarez Armenta, MPP Class of 2017

Alma Juárez Armenta cites her time at Harris as vital preparation for her doctoral work at the University of California, Berkeley. 

Kurt Nugent, MPP Class of 2020

Kurt Nugent pursued an MPP at Harris to help non-profits use data more effectively.  

Read more about our students and alumni.