Our department strives to reflect the rich diversity of the world around us. We are proactive in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.
As part of our quadripartite mission, we aim to create and foster an environment that values and recognizes everyone’s unique attributes, and one in which all members of our department and institution feel welcomed, included, and are treated with respect.
Below are some ways we’re putting our commitment to improving our culture into action:
University-wide programs and initiatives empower community members to drive change and foster an environment that is more equitable and welcoming to all. Explore the values, actions, and commitments of our institution and leadership below.
Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at WashU Medicine
This office provides leadership, expertise, and advocacy on all diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts within the School of Medicine.
About WashU Medicine’s core values
Learn more about our core values and how we are laying the foundation for a stronger, more equitable campus and community where everyone is welcomed, respected, and supported.
Habif Health and Wellness Center
Support and resources for the mental and physical well-being of all WashU students, first-year through post-graduate.
Program for Underrepresented in Medicine for Equity and Diversity (PROUD-MED)
PROUD-MED is an initiative supported by the ICTS and WashU Medicine to enhance underrepresented in medicine (URiM) faculty development by providing mentored clinical research training, dedicated Research Development Program (RDP) resources, senior faculty support, and group mentorship as a community to integrate with institutional programs.
LGBTQ Med
A student-run interest group at the School of Medicine dedicated to lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) identity and health.
OUTmed
OUTmed is an organization for LGBTQIA-identified faculty, residents, fellows, and staff at WashU Medicine. OUTmed is supported by the Department of Medicine and is open to members of the entire School of Medicine, regardless of departmental affiliation.
WashU’s Center for Diversity and Inclusion
The center supports and advocates for undergraduate, graduate and professional students from underrepresented and/or marginalized populations, creates collaborative partnerships with campus and community partners, and promotes dialogue and social change among all students.
Office of Institutional Equity
Created as the university’s primary forum for changing climate and culture. Houses diversity and inclusion resources, including training resources, support for campus affinity groups, and annual events and recognition ceremonies.
Meet our Culture Champions
This team encompasses the Office of Professional Growth & Inclusive Culture (OPGIC), Equity Champions, and IDEA Taskforce — all of whom are dedicated to fostering professional development, wellness, equity, and inclusion within our institution.
Desegregating the Medical Campus
A new permanent exhibit and website share the historical experiences of Black doctors, nurses, patients, students and staff on the Medical Campus. Its purpose is to acknowledge past injustices, and serve as a reminder of our commitment to racial equity.
Understanding Systemic Racism
In partnership with the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) at WashU Medicine, the Understanding Systemic Racism curriculum is an anti-racism professional development program.
The first series of curriculum content is Diversity Modules 1-4.
Upcoming Events
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16 Apr
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30 Apr
Recent News
Ablordeppey obtains HEDIC certification to further strengthen diversity and inclusion in department
Department’s inaugural Spring Inclusion Symposium ignites commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility
Foundation for Barnes-Jewish Hospital funds faculty projects focused on advancing equity and inclusion in health care
A message from our Chair
“Systemic racism in our institutions and racial inequality in our society are strong social determinants of poor health and inferior healthcare, and also negatively impact the ability of Black people to train in medicine, generally, and in Anesthesiology specifically. Other social and institutional prejudices, based on factors such as race, ethnicity, religion, health conditions or impairments, gender, and sexual preference, have also had major implications for health and higher educational prospects. Many of these structural inequities have been amplified by the COVID-19 pandemic. In our department, and at WashU Medicine more broadly, we are deeply committed to anti-racism, diversity, and inclusion. It is hard to challenge deeply ingrained social injustices, and discriminatory institutional cultures have profound inertia. But, today, momentum is building, and many are recognizing that in diversity, there is both strength and beauty. In our department, we strongly reject prejudice, and we embrace diversity; whoever you are and wherever you come from, you are welcome here.”
Michael S. Avidan, MBBCh, FCASA, Head of the Department of Anesthesiology
A statement from School of Medicine leadership: Speaking out against institutional racism »