Diversity

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Diversity Statement

The George Washington University Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion among its providers and throughout its training program.

Below are definitions of diversity and inclusion as outlined in the George Washington University Office of Diversity and Inclusion:

Diversity: The term diversity is used to describe individual differences (e.g. life experiences, learning and working styles, personality types) and group/social differences (e.g. race, socio-economic status, class, gender, sexual orientation, country of origin, ability, intellectual traditions and perspectives, as well as cultural, political, religious, and other affiliations) that can be engaged to achieve excellence in teaching, learning, research, scholarship, and administrative and support services.

Inclusion: The term inclusion is used to describe the active, intentional, and ongoing engagement with diversity -- in people, in the curriculum, in the co-curriculum, and in communities (e.g. intellectual, social, cultural, geographic) with which individuals might connect.

 The Department recognizes that supporting different perspectives, backgrounds, talents, and needs is essential to creating a medical community where both caregivers and patients can thrive. By intentionally supporting efforts to promote diversity, the Department benefits by creating a more inclusive environment where a host of positive outcomes can occur. These benefits include, but are not limited to:

  • Encouraging a richer mix of ideas
  • Gaining deeper understanding of patients and communities
  • Breaking down stereotypes to promote cross-cultural understanding and to improve patient care
  • Attracting talented students and residents from under-represented minorities to the field of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Efforts to enhance diversity in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology include:

  • Recruiting faculty, residents and staff from a broad variety of backgrounds
  • Including cultural competency and awareness in department teaching and research efforts
  • Promoting inclusion in relationships with our diverse community partners.
  • Initiatives to recruit, support and mentor underrepresented minority students, residents and faculty. 

As stated by the George Washington University’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, “Leveraging diversity is rarely achieved by accident.” The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology believes its commitment to diversity is integral in creating a community that can truly flourish.

The following University resources exist to provide resources to students, residents, faculty and staff as needed to enhance diversity and inclusion.