Jeneia Dinglasan Receives Undergraduate Award for Outstanding Contributions to J-DEI

January 3, 2024 - Shelly DeJong

Congratulations to Jeneia Dinglasan, a psychology major with minors in social science qualitative data analytics and cognitive science, for receiving the MSU Psychology department’s Undergraduate Award for Outstanding Contributions to Justice, Diversity, Equity, and/or Inclusion ( J-DEI).  

This award recognizes the outstanding contributions to the advancement of Justice, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Psychology undertaken by MSU students who are psychology majors. The award is given to current psychology majors based on their record of service, research, advocacy, and training/teaching that examines or advances justice, diversity, equity, and/or inclusion.  

“It means a lot to me to receive this award because diversity, equity, and inclusion are very important to me and my identity,” said Dinglasan. “It feels really good to know that my contributions are extending out to the community, even though I’m just one person.” 

Originally from Waterford, Michigan, Dinglasan is currently the vice president of CTRL+A, an Asian Interest Dance Group, and is involved with the Asian Pacific American Student Organization. She also collaborates with other affiliate organizations on campus to stand together and support each other.  

“In addition to her impressive research experiences, Jeneia has worked to cultivate an inclusive campus environment through her co- and extracurricular activities. Throughout her time at MSU, Jeneia has been an exceptional leader advocating for Asian American and other underrepresented students. For example, she served as a Student Ambassador in the College of Engineering to craft innovative virtual events with the goal of fostering inclusivity and belonging” said Dr. Ignacio Acevedo, coordinator of J-DEI initiatives for the MSU Psychology Department. 

Dinglasan also worked for two years for Engineering Inclusion and Diversity (EGRID) with the College of Engineering. There, she worked to help incoming first-years to feel more comfortable coming into college, especially those coming from underrepresented backgrounds. In addition, she has worked in the Office of Admissions in a position where she answers questions that prospective international students have about MSU.  

Throughout her time at MSU, Dinglasan has consistently strived to make sure that incoming students get connected with resources and community.  

“I grew up in a predominantly White area, so it was important for me to find programs and get involved in groups with people who look like me and understand what I felt when I came to MSU,” said Dinglasan. “I want incoming students to know that sharing your voice is very, very important. Even though you are one person, a lot of work can be done over time.”