The Office for Diversity and Inclusion, Student Affairs (ODI SA) has had a full autumn. Currently celebrating Hispanic Heritage month, ODI SA has partnered with the UAB School of Medicine chapter of the Latino Medical Association (LMSA) to showcase and celebrate Hispanic and Latino medical students, staff and faculty. 

            The Student Advisory Board launched a lunchtime series of “Difficult Dialogues Lunch and Learn,” intended to spur discussion and engagement on pressing matters in the practice of medicine. The first speaker was Dr. Kari White, an Associate Professor of Public Health Care Organization and Policy, who spoke on “Healthcare and Immigration: the intersection of National and state policies in Alabama.” This inaugural speech took place on September 18.

            The Diversity Ambassadors Program is also underway. The purpose of the Diversity Ambassadors is to work in partnership with Admissions and the Office for Diversity and Inclusion, Student Affairs to help promote UAB School of Medicine and its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and the ongoing spirit of community. Diversity Ambassadors are drawn from the pool of current medical students.

            For information on current and future activities for the Office for Diversity and Inclusion, Student Affairs, email Jenna Blythe-Tjia at jbt@uab.edu or Carolyn Maddox at cmaddox@uab.edu.