As defined by the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: the U of A envisions a world committed to inclusivity, where diversity, equity, access and civility are valued as a part of our culture, climate and everyday lives, and the university's Division of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion strives to make this vision a reality.

In an effort to encourage community engagement, five biomedical engineering graduate students — Emory Gregory, Olivia Kolenc, Paola Monterroso-Diaz, Marcos Rodriguez and Zhexi Zhu — have committed to instilling these values and vision by way of hosting monthly town hall meetings.   

"Our first DEI town hall followed the death of George Floyd, a wake-up call that many, including myself, needed to acknowledge the horrific racism present in America," Gregory said. "I appreciate that my department has this safe place where everyone can candidly talk about their diverse experiences and learn how to be a better ally from what can sometimes be difficult conversations."

The goals of the public town hall meetings are to promote awareness and recognition of racist practices, exclusionary actions towards marginalized populations and the dismissal of protected classes and their needs. A focus on learning and education on these topics can help the U of A community develop accountability, understanding and spread change in our communities.

"When it comes to advancing our DEI priority, everyone has a role to play! I commend and appreciate the biomedical engineering students for doing their part to help our campus attain a diverse, inclusive, equitable and antiracist climate and culture where all are positioned to thrive," said Yvette Murphy-Erby, vice chancellor for the Division for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. 

In grateful appreciation for their service, Raj Rao, professor and department head, has awarded these students with a JEDI Fellowship, honoring their dedication to promoting Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion.  

"I am extremely proud of our students for leading the way in these timely and important conversations aimed towards promoting positive changes, not only in academia, but in our society in general. I expect that these town halls will help us develop approaches to channel our energies towards creating an inclusive climate in our workplace and in our lives," Rao said.

The Department of Biomedical Engineering is devoted to promoting these principles in all aspects of academic endeavors, creating an environment that values and respects diversity in all its forms.

As the U of A community continues to strive for inclusive excellence, the student-led group welcomes ideas and suggestions for future monthly topics. For all upcoming meetings, please see the university's Campus Calendar.