Belonging in BioE
The Department of Bioengineering (BioE) Belonging Committee works as part of a continuous process to promote and enhance an open environment for everyone in our Bioengineering Department community to enhance research and teaching. Our mission has two facets: external and internal facing. Our external facing mission is to prepare our students to thrive as leaders for bioengineering solutions in a global society. Our internal facing mission is to create a community of belonging in the BioE department and advocate for those who encounter barriers. With this mission, the committee engages in activities and collaborations in core areas:
- Education and Curriculum
- Inclusive Community Engagement
- Belonging in the Academic and Research Environment
The committee is composed of faculty, staff, and graduate and undergraduate student members. If you are interested in learning more about the committee, would like to participate, or give input, please contact any of the committee members.
Through Education and Curriculum development, the Department of Bioengineering now has the Teaching Resources for Inclusive and Socially-Aware Bioengineering Canvas Repository. This initiative was led by Professor Esin Sozer during Summer 2023. Professor Sozer reviewed and verified material for all Bioengineering concentrations and created a repository for faculty to use for belonging case studies and education.
The Department of Bioengineering is committed to learning and fostering a sense of community through holidays and traditions. Throughout the year, we have enjoyed celebrations for Nowruz, Yalda, Diwali, Eid, Chinese New Year, Passover, and Thanksgiving. We have also recognized heritage months such as National Hispanic Heritage Month and National Native American Heritage Month.
Belonging Committee Members
- Esin B. Sözer, Assistant Teaching Professor
- Isabela Castillo, Undergraduate student
- Stephanie Noble, Assistant Professor
- Esther Cohen, Director of Operations and Business Management
- Ning Wang, Professor
- Daniel Grindle, Assistant Teaching Professor
- Christina Velez, PhD Student