Tia Cavanaugh-Goggans to Lead Intercultural Initiatives & Programs

After a competitive, nationwide search, Taylor University welcomes Tia Cavanaugh-Goggans to the inaugural role of Director of Intercultural Initiatives and Programs. Reporting directly to Rev. Greg Dyson, Vice President for Spiritual Life and Intercultural Initiatives, she will lead Taylor’s intercultural efforts, overseeing the Office of Intercultural Programs while building relationships inside and outside the community.

“Tia joins an amazing team of intercultural professionals who have been accomplishing events, activities, and caring for the needs of our domestic and international students,” said Dyson. “Her leadership will advance our biblically focused intercultural efforts. We anticipate growth in many areas of diversity as we live out our Multicultural Philosophy Statement and honor our Lord Jesus Christ.” 

Cavanaugh-Goggans will help lead Taylor’s five-tiered approach to biblical diversity:

1. Keep God at the center of the work we are doing
2. Build on strengths of individuals and the organization
3. Celebrate and engage in intercultural and church relations efforts
4. Recognize the struggles experienced by others
5. Provide amazing hospitality as we care for each other

She will continue many of Taylor’s current intercultural initiatives, including Multicultural Orientation Review Experiences (MORE), Freedom Rides (tours of historic civil rights sites), as well as enrollment and advancement assistance.

Cavanaugh-Goggans has degrees from Indiana University, and seven years of intercultural leadership experience from Heritage Christian School as well as over a decade of service as a community liaison and child development specialist. As the daughter of a pastor, she has a strong background in the church which will be a significant benefit to the Taylor community. Her office is located in the Office for Intercultural Programs in the LaRita Boren Campus Center.