Neurology Diversity

“Diversity and Inclusion are core values at the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC). Our vision is to cultivate a diverse and inclusive environment that guides and transforms our approaches to healthcare, education, research and community partnerships.”

-Office for Inclusion and Culture Development, URMC

The Department of Neurology ascribes to the values of the University and Medical Center.  To provide strategic vision and leadership, the Department of Neurology has instituted a Diversity Council that meets quarterly to work on initiatives aimed at addressing issues related to diversity and inclusion in the field of Neurology, ensuring equitable treatment of all people, and creating a culture that intentionally includes all voices.

IDEAS (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Antiracism and Social Justice)

The Neurology Diversity Council has overseen a number of working groups to improve diversity, equity and inclusion in the department. In May 2020, in response to the impact of COVID-19 on patients of color and in response to racial strife in our country and in Rochester, we expanded the scope of the council. We renamed it the IDEAS Council and specifically sought to incorporate principles of social justice and anti racism into departmental missions. IDEAS meets monthly and is open to all members of the department, which currently has representation from faculty, staff, nursing, trainees, advanced practice providers and clinical research coordinators. The meeting is a forum to discuss challenges, opportunities, develop initiatives and to attempt to work towards creative problem solutions.

If you have questions, comments or are interested in participating in any way, please contact the of the IDEAS Council: Blanca Valdovinos.

The IDEAS Council currently helps coordinate the work of the following working groups: