Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Justice
The Department of Anesthesiology is dedicated to fostering a respectful, supportive environment where all individuals can thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives and inclusive practices strengthen patient care, fuel innovative research, and enhance medical education. We are committed to continuous improvement in how we train future physicians and deliver care, with a focus on fairness, opportunity, and excellence for all.
- Diversity reflects the broad range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives within our department.
- Equity means providing tailored support and opportunities to help every faculty member, resident, and staff member reach their full potential. We strive to ensure that everyone has access to the resources they need to succeed.
- Inclusion is about creating a workplace where all individuals feel valued, respected, and able to contribute fully—free from unnecessary barriers.
- Belonging is a department where everyone feels connected, supported, and proud to be part of the team.
Mission
Our mission is to foster a supportive and respectful environment where all individuals feel valued for their unique perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences. We are committed to ensuring that everyone in our department has the opportunity to thrive, contribute meaningfully, and achieve their full potential. Through ongoing education, awareness, and thoughtful action, we aim to build a culture rooted in fairness, collaboration, and mutual respect—strengthening our department and enriching the care we provide.
Vision
The DEIJ Committee is committed to strengthening our department by fostering a culture built on respect, fairness, and collaboration. We aim to create an environment that is open, transparent, and welcoming—where individual backgrounds and perspectives are valued and everyone has a voice. By working together, we strive to ensure that every member feels empowered to contribute to our shared success and growth.
TED Talk: We Need Leaders Who Boldly Champion Inclusion
In today’s world, where diversity, equity, and inclusion are gaining recognition, significant work remains to turn ideals into reality. In her TED Talk, “We Need Leaders Who Boldly Champion Inclusion,” June Sarpong introduces the idea of "rockstars of inclusion"—courageous leaders who actively challenge the status quo to create more respectful and inclusive environments.
Initiatives
|
DEIJ Initiative |
Status |
Description |
|
Include DEIJ Strategic Initiative into a larger strategic plan of the department |
DONE |
Develop models to recruit and retain talented faculty |
|
Dig deep |
DONE |
Analyze the departmental structures for fairness and equity |
|
Develop SMART DEIJ goals |
In process |
Develop DEIJ goals which are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-based |
|
Follow up |
In process |
Follow up on achievement of DEIJ goals |
Book Club
Article of the Month
The Epidemic of Gender/Sexual Harassment in Anesthesiology: We Need Systematic Solutions
Online Resource of the Month
The University of Minnesota Equity and Diversity Certificate Program helps learners develop tools necessary for advancing all aspects of their personal and professional lives. Program materials represent and reflect on ways we can learn and grow in our careers and lives.
Resources
University Resources
- University of Minnesota Office for Equity & Diversity
The university's Office for Equity and Diversity works with colleges, units, and departments to create a respectful environment where all members of the University of Minnesota community can thrive. - Medical School Office of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The Medical School's Office of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion provides resources for students, trainees, faculty, and staff to foster inclusiveness, and promote equity in access to learning, research, and care delivery. - UMN Women in Anesthesiology
The department's Women in Anesthesiology is a community of women dedicated to the empowerment of women through mentorship, personal and professional enrichment, and promotion of work-life balance.
Additional Resources
- ASA Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
The ASA provides resources for practicing anesthesiologists, such as their tool kit, visiting rotations, and funding opportunities. - SEA IMPACT
The SEA provides educational aids, and literature on belonging in anesthesia education and training. - The Resource Library for Advancing Health Equity in Public Health
The Health Equity Resource Library provides resources to build a public health department's health equity capacity. - Racial Equity Resource Directory
Minnesota Compass curates a directory of equity programs and training providers that can help organizations and people combat discrimination and increase respectfulness.