Zoe O '27 staff photographer
Over the summer, Director of Equity, Community and Belonging (DEoCB) Kelly Jackson officially began her role at Marlborough, filling a position that had been open last year. Her arrival was accompanied by a name change to the department, from the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion to the Office of Equity, Community and Belonging.
Jackson emphasized how the change may feel like a rebranding, but is, in reality, a narrowing of focus to the values that Marlborough holds.
“The change reflects a broader vision, moving beyond ‘diversity’ as simply who is in the room, to also emphasizing how people feel in the room,” Jackson said. “‘Equity’ leads our school vision, highlighting fairness and access. ‘Community’ reminds us we are stronger together, and ‘belonging’ centers the feeling of being welcomed and valued.”
Jackson has worked in the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) space for over 15 years, and previously worked at Notre Dame High School in Sherman Oaks. The focus of her position is to lead initiatives about inclusive hiring, restorative practices and affinity spaces. Jackson has helped schools build structures that promote belonging for all and wants to bring that experience to Marlborough.
“What drew me to Marlborough was the school’s commitment to cultivating both academic excellence and a deep sense of community,” Jackson said. “I was inspired by the vision of creating a space where every student can see themselves reflected and valued.”
Jackson’s role involves making sure the entire Marlborough community feels respected and seen, whether by developing new programs based in cultural awareness, working alongside affinity and identity groups and much more.
“As the Director of Equity, Community and Belonging, my role is to help ensure that Marlborough is a place where every student and staculty member feels seen, valued and supported.” Jackson said. “This includes developing programs that promote cultural awareness, working with affinity and identity groups, supporting staculty in inclusive teaching practices and helping our community address challenging topics around identity, equity and justice. My job is not only about addressing issues when they happen, but also about building structures that make our school more inclusive every day.”
Jackson’s goals for this year include listening attentively to the entire Marlborough community to understand strengths and areas for improvement. She is committed to developing affinity and alliance spaces while also fostering more opportunities for cross-cultural dialogue. One of her main objectives is to embed equity and belonging work into everyday life at school rather than just highlighting it in special events. Jackson has already led workshops for student leaders on campus based on these intentions and has met with affinity and alliance group leaders to hear their perspectives.
“My favorite part of this work is seeing students find their voice and use it to create change,” Jackson said. “I love when students feel empowered to share their perspectives, connect across differences and imagine new possibilities for the school community.”