Infusing inclusive excellence throughout the WashU 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 WashU 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 promote innovative research and 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.
WashU Medicine honored with diversity, equity & inclusion award »
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.
Core areas of focus housed within the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion:
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.
Academic Pathway Programs
Builds an intentional and deliberate infrastructure to improve efforts in recruiting, retaining, and developing applicants in medicine and the STEM workforce. Connects high school, college, and doctoral students with educational and scientific activities which otherwise may be inaccessible.
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 practices, health and educational equity, community building and self-compassion.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Commemoration Week 2026
Join us as we celebrate Dr. MLK Jr. Commemoration Week 2026 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. This year’s theme is “Historical Memory.” With many events that connect to Dr. King’s vision and passions, there will be something for everyone. Dr. Hasan Jeffries will deliver a keynote, entitled, “When a Dream Becomes a Nightmare: Reclaiming Dr. King’s Vision for a Just America,” as part of the Inclusive Excellence Speaker Series. Please review our upcoming programming and RSVP for the week of events. We hope to see you there!
Latest news and updates
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Commemoration Week 2026
Join the Campus Celebration Committees
