WEDNESDAY WORD: Inclusion

"The time is always right to do what's right." This quote from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in an address at Cornell College in 1962 still rings true 60 years later.

Today's focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in health care, education and corporations across America are a result of Dr. King's passionate efforts. Goldfarb School of Nursing is proud of our diversity in leadership and student recruitment. Yet we continue to strive for more diversity, inclusion and equity to make the future brighter for more people. Because it's the right thing to do now—and always. "The time is always right to do what's right." This quote from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in an address at Cornell College in 1962 still rings true 60 years later.

Today's focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in health care, education and corporations across America are a result of Dr. King's passionate efforts. Goldfarb School of Nursing is proud of our diversity in leadership and student recruitment. Yet we continue to strive for more diversity, inclusion and equity to make the future brighter for more people. Because it's the right thing to do now—and always.

"The time is always right to do what's right." This quote from Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in an address at Cornell College in 1962 still rings true 60 years later.

Monday we celebrated the life and the legacy of Dr. King who dedicated his life to fighting racial prejudice and advancing the rights of Black Americans. His inspiring strength and wisdom were rooted in love, hope, peace and justice. Today's focus on diversity, equity and inclusion in health care, education and corporations across America are a result of Dr. King's passionate efforts.

Diversity matters in every workplace and educational setting. So does inclusion. Research shows gender and ethnic diversity, inclusion and performance go hand in hand to create a stronger organization. Ultimately, diverse and inclusive organizations make better, bolder decisions, according to a McKinsey & Company report.

Goldfarb School of Nursing, as well as our partner BJC HealthCare, has made impressive gains in diversity, equity and inclusion in leadership and student recruitment. In fact, Goldfarb has been a leader in prioritizing diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives.

Goldfarb passionately fosters inclusion and belonging, for example, students take an active role through the Students Promoting Diversity group. In addition, faculty and staff at the Clinical Simulation Institute design simulation scenarios that incorporate patient diversity and promote cultural awareness. And our faculty members conduct scholarly research aimed at reducing health disparities and improving the health of vulnerable populations.

We are determined to ensure equitable access to opportunities so everyone can follow their dreams. For example, in 2021, Goldfarb and Harris-Stowe State University partnered to offer selected students an opportunity to earn dual bachelor and nursing degrees from both schools with scholarship assistance.

Despite the many challenges during the pandemic, diversity and inclusion remain priorities at Goldfarb. Diversity, equity and inclusion are embedded in our five-year strategic plan. Inspired by Dr. King, we are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive culture and promoting inclusive behavior. Because the time is always right to do what's right.