Infusing diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the Washington University School of Medicine community

The mission of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion is to:

Provide leadership, expertise and advocacy on all diversity, equity and inclusion efforts within Washington University School of Medicine.

Direct, lead and advance institutional efforts that create a welcoming, diverse and inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected.

Enhance and develop community partnerships designed to address health needs and promote health equity within the St. Louis community and beyond.

Read our office’s full mission and vision »

WashU Medicine receives 2024 National Association of Diversity Officers in Higher Education Institutional Excellence Award for professional schools

The honor recognizes campuswide work by faculty, staff and students who help foster a diverse and inclusive culture based on collaboration, innovation and best practices.  

Medical school honored with diversity, equity & inclusion award »

Helen E. Nash, MD, cares for infant patients at Homer G. Phillips Hospital, circa 1945.

Desegregating the Medical Campus

A new permanent exhibit and website share the historical experiences of Black doctors, nurses, patients, students and staff on the Medical Campus. Its purpose is to acknowledge past injustices, and serve as a reminder of our commitment to racial equity.

Explore online timeline » | About the exhibit »


Core areas of focus housed within the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:
A young Black woman wearing a white physicians coat holds a handwritten sign that says: "My white coat means ... to commit to lifelong learning, humility and the fight for equity in science and medicine! 'Ndoto Zinatimia'"

Office of Diversity Programs

Enhances the medical educational environment through recruitment of a culturally diverse academic workforce, while preparing a diverse student body to become leaders in a vibrant, global society. Offers programs for high school students; current students, trainees and junior faculty; visiting medical students and more.

Summer scholar Jakayla Folarin-Hines, left, meets with Victora Brings, PhD, right, to present and get feedback on her research.

Academic Pathway Programs

Builds an intentional and deliberate infrastructure to improve efforts in recruiting, retaining, and developing underrepresented applicants in medicine (UiM) and the STEM workforce. Connects high school, college, and doctoral students with educational and scientific activities which otherwise may be inaccessible.

A group of people examines and discusses a timeline documenting the medical campus history of segregation and desegregation.

Programming and Professional Development

Provides education, programming and consultation to the WashU Med community for increased understanding and skill development around the work of diversity, equity and inclusion, utilizing frameworks for culture change, restorative justice, health equity, community building and self-compassion.


Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Week

Join us as we celebrate 2025 MLK Jr. Week at WashU Medicine. We invite all members of our community to participate and reflect on ways to further Dr. King’s vision of justice and equality in our daily lives. From the kickoff of our book and film club to the commemoration of the Desegregation History exhibit and updates on our DEI initiatives, there’s something for everyone. Highlighting the week, Dr. Kemi Doll will deliver a keynote as part of the Inclusive Excellence Speaker Series.

Upcoming events

See all events »


Latest news and updates

Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Week 2025

Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Week 2025

In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., this year’s program features opportunities to engage with impactful discussions, thought-provoking exhibits, and inspiring speakers, all centered around themes of equity, inclusion, and social justice.

See all news »