Student EDI Team

Dr. Sammy Li

Assistant Director of Student Affairs (Postgraduate and Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion) 

Sammy is the University’s institutional lead for Student Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). He oversees the Student EDI Team, the Multifaith Chaplaincy, and the University Doctoral School within Student Services, and his strategic remit also includes postgraduate student affairs.

With a unique blend of academic expertise and senior leadership experience in professional services, Sammy plays a key role in shaping inclusive policy and practice across the institution. He is nationally recognised for his work on equality matters, particularly in navigating the complex intersection of legal, regulatory, equality responsibilities in a diverse university environment. This is exemplified via his work in supporting over 40,000 students across UK and Dubai campuses and other provisions of the University’s global operations.

Sammy holds a doctorate in tourism management and is a passionate traveller. His global experiences continue to inform his inclusive approach to student engagement and community cohesion, enriching the University's commitment to diversity and belonging.

Loreal Stokes

Head of Student Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion 

Loreal joined the team in June 2025 as the Head of Student Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). She leads the Student EDI Officer team in delivering student-focused EDI initiatives, including the Birmingham Scholar and EDI Student Ambassadors programmes. Her work supports the University’s strategic commitments under the Access and Participation Plan and the Race Equality Charter.

Loreal brings a strong operational background in equitable practice, having previously led widening participation work. Her current focus is on embedding inclusive practices across the student lifecycle and strengthening collaboration with student-facing services. She holds an International MBA and is currently undertaking a PhD exploring the impact of early racialised experiences on the leadership journeys of Mixed White and Black Caribbean individuals. Loreal is driven by a deep commitment to social justice and the belief that equitable education can transform lives.

Chike Dike 

Student Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer (Widening Participation)

Chike joined the team in August 2025 as the Student Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Officer - Widening Participation. Chike will work closely with the Colleges and University stakeholder to deliver the Birmingham Scholars Programme in support of the University's wider Access and Participation Plan. 

Chike brings a strong background in developing and delivering EDI initiatives targeted at students from diverse underrepresented and underprivileged backgrounds, having previously been a Full-Time Officer for two years. Chike holds an MA in Political Psychology and a BSc in International Relations and is passionate about creating equal access to opportunities in Higher Education for all student regardless of who they are or where they come from.  

Olivia Rowe 

Student Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer (Chaplaincy and Operations)

Olivia joined the team in December 2025 as the Student Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer (Chaplaincy and Operations). Olivia supports the University’s Multifaith Chaplaincy by coordinating activities, maintaining facilities, and fostering inclusion, embedding an inclusive campus culture through collaboration with students, staff, chaplains, and wider university services.

Olivia brings extensive experience in Higher Education working particularly in Student Experience, ensuring students feel welcomed, seen, heard and celebrated whilst studying at university. Olivia holds a BA (Hons) in Sociology and has a strong interest in ensuring all students are able to thrive through initiatives that champion inclusion and foster a sense of belonging for all. Olivia hopes to bring this into the role by working with the Multifaith Chaplaincy to ensure students of all faiths and none feel welcome and empowered to succeed.

Alex Ferranti 

Student Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion Officer

Alex jointed the Team in June 2023 as the Student Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Officer - Engagement . Alex manages the Student EDI Ambassador cohort and leads on student EDI events and training provisions across the University.

Alex has strong international background and his periods living, working and studying abroad has helped him to develop cultural awareness and gain practical skills in intercultural communication.