Diversity Statement

The mission of academia is to better understand the world and to communicate this knowledge to others. The voices of academia in general, including the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), have long lacked diversity, reflecting a deep history of exclusion and discrimination. Our disciplines of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology are no exception; we must acknowledge and reckon with this past. Addressing inequity is a moral imperative, and a diversity of perspectives and intellects increases the excellence and creativity of our science. We affirm our responsibility to reverse historic patterns of exclusion, and improve the atmosphere in our department through education, training, and outreach. 

We affirm the following core values:

  1. All individuals are respected and accepted into our community, regardless of race, ethnicity, culture, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, religion, disability, or any other identities.
  2. Combating systemic problems like bias (both implicit and explicit) and prejudice requires training, and represents a collective responsibility that requires individual engagement.
  3. Barriers to access, retention, and advancement in academia must be removed; equitable outcomes require active work.
  4. Open dialogue and respectful communication, while maintaining a safe environment for all, is essential.

E&EB Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee members, 2020-2021:

Paul Turner, Faculty (DEI Chair)

Casey Dunn, Faculty (DGS)

Erika Edwards, Faculty

Martha Muñoz, Faculty

Anabelle Cardoso, Postdoctoral Associate

Mike Blazanin, PhD Student

Anri Chomentowska, PhD Student

Henry Camarillo, PhD Student