Page 20 - RU RWJ Medicine Magazine • Winter 2021

Dr. Whitley-
Williams feels hopeful by the dedication of our medical school community, affirming, “We are on the right road, but there are a lot of pit falls to fix.
A new advisory group of URM students outlined their envisioned changes toward inclusion in the learning environment. So far, the Office of Educa- tion has implemented every one of their sugges- tions into the curriculum.
Dr. Cato Varlack com-
ments, “We understood that the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and countless others were impacting our students. Our goal was to create a safe space to discuss what was happening and involve students in our plans for change.”
The Student National Medical Association (SNMA) and Latino Medical School Associ- ation have successfully engaged the student body. SNMA created a White Coats for Black Lives Group and is working with administration to create a Distinction in Diversity and Inclusion program.
Dedicated Community Ready for Change
Dr. Whitley-Williams feels hopeful by the dedication of our medical school commu- nity, affirming, “We are on the right road, but
there are a lot of pit falls to fix. We will con- tinue to do trainings and talk openly about racism. Having the first Black dean of the medical school makes a difference.”
Dean Johnson promises to lead the fight against racism. He shares, “I have demon- strated, I have protested, I have organized communities, and I have used my medical skills and knowledge to improve the condi- tions of people at all levels. Most impor- tantly, I have stood up for justice and against inequality. I continue to ‘keep hope alive’ and believe that eventually the innate goodness of humanity would prevail. I am confident that our medical school’s anti- racism initiatives will continue to move us in the right direction of equitable health care for all people, and I feel proud to be part of this movement.” M
We will continue to do trainings and talk openly about racism. Having the first Black dean of the medical school makes a difference.”
18 Robert WoodJohnson | MEDICINE