On the afternoon of January 26, the second floor atrium of North Pavilion began to fill steadily: first with representatives of each department of the School of Medicine, and then, as brightly-colored and eye-catching displays were constructed, with guests. The School of Medicine Office for Diversity and Inclusion celebrated its second annual Diversity Fair from 4:00 – 6:00 pm, with food, drink, and entertainment.

2017’s inaugural Fair enjoyed more than 500 attendees; the 2018 Fair welcomed roughly 700 guests from across UAB Medicine. Each School of Medicine department was challenged to bring food and décor that represented some aspect of the faculty and staff of their department. Some chose to bring food representing as much of the national and international composition of their employees as possible; others focused on a single region or nation.

Departments competed for the honor of best table, and were judged on their decorations, presentation, and the taste of the food they offered. Food selections from as far afield as India, Japan, Germany, England, China, and a wealth of other world locations filled the tables. A panel of six judges evaluated the tables. Restaurant gift cards will be awarded to the top ranking departments.

Sol Musica, an international band, as well as the Birmingham Girls Choir, entertained the Fair-goers as they browsed the tables.

“The Diversity Fair is a unique opportunity to come together as UAB Medicine and celebrate the many ways in which we are different and the same,” said Mona Fouad, MD, MPH, Senior Associate Dean for Diversity and Inclusion at the School of Medicine. “We draw strength, creativity, and excellence from our diversity, and the Fair offers us a chance to enjoy that wonderful reality.”