Dowdy Multicultural Center

Dr. Elisa A. Oliver
Director

She/Ella
Email: eoliver@wcupa.edu

Dr. Elisa A. Oliver serves as the Director of the Dowdy Multicultural Center. Elisa is originally from Miami, Florida, and is the first in her family to graduate from college. Elisa earned her bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Sciences (2009), and her master’s degree in Higher Education Student Affairs (2011) from Florida State University. In the spring of 2026, Elisa graduated with her Doctor of Education from West Chester University of Pennsylvania. in Elisa joined Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc. (LTA) in the spring of 2006 and had the honor of serving as the LTA National President from 2018-2020. She is passionate about cultivating community and developing strong leaders. Elisa enjoys music, dancing, traveling, and serving the community.

Raekwon Bates
Assistant Director

He/Him
Email: rbates@wcupa.edu

Raekwon Bates serves as the Assistant Director for the Dowdy Multicultural Center. Born and raised in Baltimore, MD, he graduated from Cheyney University, the first HBCU, in 2022. He is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Higher Education Policy and Student Affairs (HEPSA). Raekwon is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. 

Angela Garrett
Administrative Assistant

She/Her
Email: agarrett@wcupa.edu 

 

Angela Garrett has been employed at West Chester University since November 2, 2015 in the Dowdy Multicultural Center (formerly the Office of Multicultural Affairs). She is also a graduate of West Chester University with a bachelors degree in Business Management/Public Affairs. Along with her husband and children, she was a long term resident of West Chester, PA since 1996. Angela was previously employed at the Chester County Domestic Relations office as a Hearing Officer and Enforcement Officer for 7 years prior to moving to Illinois with her husband due to job relocation. Upon her return to the West Chester, PA area she became her father’s caregiver Angela currently resides in Newtown Square, PA. She enjoys assisting and encouraging the students in the Dowdy Multicultural Center, spending quality time with her family and vacationing at the beach. She’s a member of the Christian Faith Fellowship church where she serves on the Financial Ministry team.