Female faculty members in the Purdue University College of Veterinary Medicine gathered this week for their annual luncheon. Assistant Dean for Diversity and Inclusion Latonia Craig led the Women’s Faculty Luncheon, which was held Tuesday, April 16, in Lynn 1192. This was Dr. Craig’s first time to lead the annual event, which is part of the College’s overall effort to foster an environment that is welcoming to all.
Women faculty from each of the College’s departments attended. They were able to participate in an interactive survey and engage in discussions about ways in which the College can work to ensure that women feel that they are part of the emphasis on inclusivity. Dr. Craig said she had three key objectives for the meeting: to foster deep and meaningful dialogue among PVM women faculty members; to build a community of support amongst PVM women faculty; and to establish at least one goal from the discussions that could be included in the College’s 2020 Diversity Plan.
The Office for Diversity and Inclusion intends to keep growing the annual luncheon and Dr. Craig hopes more of the College’s women faculty members sense the value and impact of this effort and are inspired to attend next year. “Given how busy we all are, an important feature of this event is the opportunity for the women to network and interact with one another,” Dr. Craig said. “The luncheon is a chance to bring these women together in one place to talk about their successes and challenges.” At the end of the luncheon, the participants were able to share about promotions, new grants, and more.