Message from the Director of Diversity Initiatives

Torrell Foree
Director of Diversity Initiatives

Our commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) cannot be merely nominal. It must transcend the realm of rhetoric and become an integral part of our identity within the School of Biological Sciences. This is not just about ticking boxes or meeting quotas but about genuinely embodying the principles we advocate. It's about ensuring our actions, decisions, and practices align with and reflect our commitment to EDI, thereby demonstrating the integrity of our EDI claims. This is crucial as it helps to build trust among the members of our community, fosters a culture of authenticity and accountability, and ensures that our school is a place where everyone, irrespective of their background, can thrive.

Our EDI journey is not one we can embark on alone. It requires the active participation, engagement, and contribution of every member of our community. Hence, it's crucial to gain the full support from the entire Biological Sciences community. It's about more than just getting people on board; it's about fostering a sense of shared responsibility and collective ownership of our EDI goals. It's about recognizing and valuing the diverse perspectives, experiences, and contributions that each individual brings to our community. By securing buy-in, we can create an inclusive environment that benefits us all, and provides us an opportunity to tap in to everyone’s potential.

Transparency is a cornerstone of our EDI efforts. We are committed to being open and honest about our goals, our progress, and the challenges we face. We believe that by showcasing our progress and making our EDI goals visible to our community, we can foster a sense of trust, encourage open dialogue, and create a culture of accountability. It allows everyone to see the strides we are making, hold us accountable for our actions, and play an active role in our EDI journey. Furthermore, it inspires confidence in our commitment to EDI, motivates continued efforts towards achieving our goals, and fosters a sense of ownership and pride in our community.

Torrell Foree
Director of Diversity Initiatives
School of Biological Sciences, UC San Diego
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