Vice Dean’s Message

Welcome to the epicenter for all matters of Diversity and Inclusion at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine. Since 2015 we have taken a decidedly intentional and unapologetic approach to Diversity & Inclusion in Medicine and Science. Our mission: “to change the face of medicine.” We believe that true excellence as befits a leading Academic Medical Center can be found in our science, our practice, our discovery and especially in our Diversity. It is in fact the diversity of thought, the diversity of initiatives and the diversity of focus that allows us to evolve an influence on science, health and healthcare that extends well beyond our reach.

Our topline goals are immutable but the environment in which we function is not; today’s realities are painfully acute. Racism is a scourge on our society; we are repulsed by racism and categorically repudiate racism. As a Black professional acculturated in the Deep South of the 60’s, this is personal; there is no room for racism on this campus, in our work or in our profession. I partner with campus leaders to expunge racism from all of the varied experiences at Feinberg.

We intend for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to be a steady and indefatigable voice that champions equity regardless of race, ethnicity, country of origin, LGBTQ status or disability. Allow me to unambiguously clear—you have a safe space in our Office of Diversity and Inclusion and you have advocates among our leaders and within our teams.

Visit our site; stop by our offices (when we can again safely gather); engage in our programming. If you are considering attending Feinberg, we are here to inform you and support you; if you are considering training at Feinberg, we have a small army ready to assist; and if you are contemplating teaching or pursuing discovery science here at Feinberg, we/I can accommodate you and provide direction and mentoring.

We have this conviction not to complete a portfolio of services offered or to have the “right optics;” we have this conviction because we have felt the sting of injustice and we have seen the loss of talent and indeed the loss of life. Our conviction is resolute. We intend to change the face of medicine and through Diversity—especially diversity of thought—we will enable all of the potential available to elevate Feinberg to an even higher tier of excellence.

Thank you for your interest in Diversity & Inclusion.

Clyde Yancy, MD
Vice Dean for Diversity and Inclusion
Chief, Division of Medicine-Cardiology
Magerstadt Professor
Professor in Medicine-Cardiology and Medical Social Sciences