Introducing Sheela Shenoi, MD, MPH, of the Section of Infectious Diseases.
What does diversity, equity, and inclusion mean to you personally?
DEI efforts mean that my colleagues and the institutional staff have more brown and black individuals (and hail from different cultures and speak different languages), reflecting the local and global community we serve. DEI efforts mean to me that I will no longer be the only brown skinned person in my neighborhood. DEI efforts to me means that patients will no longer ask me where I am from. Personally, DEI efforts means that colleagues, patients, and others will stop confusing me with another brown-skinned faculty member. DEI efforts to me means that as a woman, I will no longer be mistaken as a trainee when entering a patient room with a male trainee.
Why do you value diversity?
Diversity is critical to ensure the spectrum of experiences and values are included in decision making. Diversity is essential for the pursuit of science, medicine, and public health.
Why should an academic setting be equal and inclusive?
The composition of academics should reflect the population it serves.
Why are you on the diversity committee?
It is important to combat injustices in our healthcare system and in our academic workplace.
What do you look forward to most?
Developing concrete and quantitative ways to improve DEI that are actionable, accountable, and transparent.
The Department of Internal Medicine’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Internal Medicine knows that diversity, equity, and inclusion is critical to our mission; that providing a safe, welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds results in beneficial diversity of thought; and believes that having a diverse team enhances our ability to provide excellent clinical care, research, and medical education.