College of Medicine – Tucson’s Faculty Diversity Advisory Committee Recognized for Commitment to Inclusion

A faculty advisory committee assembled by the University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion was recognized by INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine with their Inspiring Affinity Group Award. The Faculty Diversity Advisory Committee (FDAC) received the award in recognition of its accomplishments in creating an attractive work culture for higher education professionals by expanding access to employee resources such as mentoring, collaboration and social networking opportunities.

“As an institution, we strive to create a climate where inclusive excellence is the ultimate goal,” said Victoria E. Murrain, DO, College of Medicine - Tucson deputy dean for diversity and inclusion. “The Faculty Diversity Advisory Committee focuses their attention on identifying initiatives that will enhance the experience of our constituents as we train culturally humble medical professionals prepared to care for our communities in Arizona and beyond.”

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The College of Medicine – Tucson has long recognized the important role diversity plays in providing high-quality health care and education. Given the college’s location in Southern Arizona, a culturally diverse region with deep-rooted heritage and traditions, its leaders are especially proud of outreach to Latino/Hispanic and Native American groups, which are traditionally underrepresented in medicine.

FDAC supports culturally relevant outreach and activities to create a respectful and inclusive community within the college. A recent accomplishment involved the creation of a “hiring toolkit,” which identifies best practices for promoting diversity in the faculty search and hiring process.

INSIGHT Into Diversity is the oldest and largest diversity and inclusion publication and job board in higher education, and the creators of Viewfinder Campus Climate Surveys.

“As we are in the middle of this unprecedented period of uncertainty, we know underrepresented faculty will play an even bigger role in making your institution the go-to campus where others know they can feel respected and welcome and their careers can flourish,” wrote Lenore Pearlstein, INSIGHT Into Diversity publisher, in the award letter. “This year’s honorees truly are an inspiration to all of us who are working so diligently to make a difference in the lives of individuals from all underrepresented groups. Diversity matters in times like these.”