Our department strives to reflect the rich culture of the world around us. We are proactive in creating a welcoming and supportive 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.
Equity, Diversity & Inclusion at WashU
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.
Honoring Heritage, Advancing Inclusion
Throughout the year, our department recognizes and celebrates six federally recognized heritage months, each offering us an opportunity to embrace the culture that makes us stronger. By focusing on these months, we aim to create intentional, meaningful celebrations that align with our commitment to professional growth and inclusion. You can expect additional opportunities to engage, learn, and connect as we continue to expand our efforts.
- African American History Month (February)
- Women’s History Month (March)
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (May)
- LGBTQIA+ Pride Month (June)
- Hispanic Heritage Month (September-October)
- Native American Heritage Month (November)
Upcoming Events
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16 Jan
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19 Jan
Beyond the six heritage months we officially recognize, we acknowledge that there are many other awareness months and causes our colleagues care deeply about. We invite you to share your ideas for future newsletter highlights, knowing that submissions will be reviewed to ensure alignment with our mission and values. You can submit ideas to Enyo Ablordeppey, at ablordeppeye@wustl.edu.
Training
Foundations of Inclusive Excellence
Hosted by the office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at WashU Medicine, this series of four one-hour training sessions introduces participants to the fundamentals of Inclusive Excellence and creating a supportive culture. Employees are welcome to attend open sessions offered every other month. In addition, departments, programs and other business units may request group training.
- Session 1: Awareness
- Session 2: Understanding
- Session 3: Commitment
- Session 4: Action
Equity-Centered Culture Change curriculum
The Equity-Centered Culture Change curriculum is a professional development program covering concepts related to addressing differential health outcomes and fostering health equity in the communities we serve. Tailored to the participant’s role and responsibilities, this curriculum is a deeper dive into the ways we can promote culture change to achieve health equity. While participation in this curriculum is voluntary, it builds on the foundational concepts covered in the Foundations of Inclusive Excellence training modules and therefore the fundamental courses are pre-requisites for the Equity-Centered Culture Change curriculum.
Equity Champions program
The Equity Champions program at WashU Medicine institutes department-supported faculty and staff positions to help facilitate the implementation of the Equity Centered Culture Change curriculum. The faculty and staff in these roles receive professional development to support their competency in leading discussions and training around equity and culture change within their departments. Champions serve a minimum two-year term, with the potential to be invited to continue.
Departmental Equity Champions
This team encompasses the department’s Office of Professional Growth & Engagement (OPGE), Equity Champions, and IDEA Taskforce — all of whom are dedicated to fostering professional development, wellness, equity, and inclusion within our institution.
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
