Camila Souza recently joined the University of Miami School of Law as the assistant dean of Inclusion and Belonging with a mission to equip students, faculty, and staff with the knowledge, skills, and experiences needed to be inclusive leaders and to continue to foster a culture that values diversity and ensures all students feels respected and supported. Souza will work closely across the school to develop appropriate programs.
"What excites me the most about joining UM Law School is the opportunity to work within a community that not only embraces but also celebrates diverse experiences and perspectives," said Souza, a native English speaker fluent in Spanish and Portuguese. "The chance to collaborate with students, staff, and faculty from all over the world aligns perfectly with my belief that inclusion and belonging are not just values but the foundation of a vibrant and innovative academic environment.
"And moving back to Miami to be closer to family while enjoying warmer weather also is a big plus," she said.
Before joining the law school community, the Brazilian-born Souza was in New Haven, Connecticut, as the director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the energy company Avangrid, where she was recognized with a 2023 Women on the Rise Award from Paradigm for Parity for her outstanding contributions to advancing equity within the workplace. Before joining Avangrid, Souza worked at Yale University School of Management for over five years in global business programs, the Career Development Office, and Student Services. She served as the associate director of Inclusion and Diversity at Yale SOM and was honored with the Staff Excellence in Community Spirit award in 2021.
Previously, Souza was a community manager for various technology companies and co-founded a communication strategy company in Miami. Born in Brazil and raised in Peru, Souza holds a master's in human resources from Georgetown University and a second master's in international relations and diplomacy from Leiden University in The Netherlands. She also has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Florida International University.
When not at work, Souza enjoys staying active, reading, and binge-watching the latest television show but says her most fulfilling role is being a caretaker and parent to her 4-year-old son, Felix.
"Coming to the law school is a unique opportunity to foster an inclusive and supportive environment for all students, faculty, and staff," said Souza. "I look forward to working closely with the UM community to drive initiatives that promote a true sense of belonging."
Read more about Miami Law's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion.
