Drae is the Co-Founder and current Co-Chair of the Co-op Family Centers' Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Council. Drae's journey with the JEDI Council began when he was approached by Dr. Tina Cheng to revive and expand the center's DEI efforts. Dr. Cheng recognized Drae's extensive DEI-B related professional experience and his adept handling of a culturally sensitive situation at the center. His advice to the center's leadership on how to respond effectively to the situation demonstrated his capability.
Recognizing the importance of the center’s mission and its service to one of the most diverse student populations in Eugene, Drae agreed to support the initiative. He understood the unique challenges and opportunities that came with such a diverse environment and was determined to help the center navigate these effectively.
To build a robust DEI program, Drae assisted the center in identifying key members who were passionate and knowledgeable about DEI issues. He played a crucial role in establishing a leadership structure that ensured clear roles and responsibilities. Additionally, Drae was instrumental in creating framing documents that outlined the council's goals, values, and strategies. These documents provided a solid foundation and a clear direction for the council's efforts.
Simultaneously, Drae focused on equipping the center’s staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to apply an equity lens to their work. He conducted comprehensive training sessions that emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing DEI issues in everyday operations. This training was crucial in fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect within the center.
Under Drae’s leadership, the JEDI Council has evolved into a critical advisory body for the center and its executive board. The council provides guidance on various DEI issues and helps shape the center's policies and practices. Additionally, the JEDI Council offers a range of DEI-centered initiatives, including celebrations that honor diverse cultures, acknowledgments of significant achievements in DEI, valuable resources for continuous learning, and advocacy for underrepresented groups.