U of M Medical School Convenes Expert Panel Focused on Improving Diversity
The University of Minnesota Medical School is dedicated to providing equal opportunity and access to employment and educational programs. As part of an effort to improve diversity in the Medical School, Dean Brooks Jackson has commissioned a Medical School Diversity and Climate Expert Panel. The panel has a three-fold charge with integrated benchmarks and measurable outcomes:Â
Fact Finding
- Identify the areas of success and areas of challenge for underrepresented Medical School students, faculty, and staff in our curriculum, teaching, research, service, and clinical environments.
- Inventory and review efforts, programs and initiatives related to promoting and advancing diversity and climate in the Medical School.
- Identify a climate survey tool that can be utilized to gather pertinent data.
- Review the current Medical School diversity statement.
Identify & Assess Best Practices
- Audit best practices at other institutions.
- Consult with internal and external experts.
Recommendations & Outcomes
- Develop a comprehensive diversity plan that will increase equity and inclusion, attract and retain underrepresented students, faculty, and staff and track our progress towards our commitment to a diverse learning environment.
- The plan should meet or exceed the LCME Standard 3.3.
The 28 member committee is chaired by, Dimple Patel, Associate Dean for Admissions for the Medical School and Alex McKinney Professor in the Department of Radiology. A final report with recommendations from the Climate & Diversity Expert Panel will be delivered to Dean Jackson in approximately six months.