Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Update
November 29, 2021
The DEI group is continuing to live the mission set earlier this year:
Life is Better Here because We Are All Here. We support employees in bringing their whole selves to work, inclusive of race, ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, and ability. VetCor cultivates its culture by embracing the uniqueness of our community, both internal and external, and by building upon its strengths through education, mentorship, and meaningful communication.
November DEI Panel For Students
In early November, Dr. Laura Del Valle, Chief of Staff at Lake Alfred Animal Hospital, joined DEI group members Dr. Niccole Bruno, Chief of Staff at Companion Animal Hospital, and Dr. Chad Harris, Vice President of Vet Leadership, for a panel event for students on diversity, equity, and inclusion in veterinary medicine. They specifically covered how DVM students can be allies and thought leaders within their own communities. The goal was to generate useful ideas and small actions that students can take with them at the end of the night that will make an impact wherever they go.
Some of the questions covered before they opened up for a Q & A session to the 60+ participants included
- What impact does DEI have on you personally?
- How can future veterinarians encourage DEI in their own practices and cultures?
- What advice do you have for students looking to connect with others of a similar background?
Check out the full event recording on our YouTube channel.
Brave Space Certificate Program
The DEI group is also pleased to report that some employees have already participated in AVMA’s Brave Space Certificate Program. In this program, there are seven self-led modules, each worth 1 CE, which go over diversity, equity, and inclusion as well as interpersonal violence and workplace harassment.
Here's what some of our employees have to say about the course content:
“Brave Space has a helpful range of topics. I have been able to learn about topics that I knew very little about while also deepening my knowledge of other topics I am already familiar with. I am very happy with the growth I noticed in myself through these modules.” Dr. Keinan Gold
"It has helped increase my own awareness of unconscious biases (myself and others), as well as being aware that everyone has their own interpersonal struggles at all times and how to be more supportive for others.” Dr. Richard Jankowski
"Brave Space provides real-life situations that our teams face every day. I feel better prepared to recognize and respond to workplace harassment, violence, and discrimination. Brave Space shows the importance and benefits of a diverse and inclusive workplace." Regional Managers (group statement)
If you have been thinking about taking the Brave Space Certificate Program, now is the time to do it. VetCor employees that are not AVMA members have a discounted rate of $60 through the end of 2021 with the code VETCOR21, and it is free for AVMA members.
