Projects & Programs

Equity and Inclusion Committee​

​The Equity and Inclusion Committee establishes goals and strategies for the college in order to cultivate and maintain a more diverse student body, staff, and faculty in line with the college’s Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan. They develop and review benchmarks and collect data, organize diversity trainings, and collaborate across departments, regions, and offices. ​

Three Black medical professionals talking in front of a doorway

Urban Health Program

The mission of the UIC College of Nursing Urban Health Program (UHP) is to recruit and retain through graduation student groups who are underrepresented in nursing, specifically African Americans, Latinos and Native Americans. The UHP seeks to expand educational and research opportunities for these populations at all academic levels (including pre-college) in order to develop underrepresented minority health care professionals, faculty and researchers with the goals of eliminating health disparities and advancing health equity. ​

several women smile for a photo

Change Champions ​

​Change Champions represent students, faculty, and staff within the College of Nursing that have committed to stewarding the Equity and Inclusion Strategic Plan in their respective areas of work. They support their committees, departments, or offices in identifying and implementing specific priorities each year that contribute to the overall implementation of the Strategic Plan.

A diverse group of graduate students pose for a photograph

Affinity group for PhD candidates and ​faculty of color​

​Launched in 2023, this group connects nursing PhD candidates of color with faculty members of color to share experiences and resources. The priority of this group is to build relationships that build inclusivity and belonging and allow students to explore future research and other professional paths that might interest them. ​

Woman gives presentation

Departmental flash talks ​

​Under the leadership of the associate dean for equity and inclusion, and in partnership with other students, faculty and staff, flash talks on different diversity, equity and inclusion topics have been given during departmental faculty meetings. Previous topics for these talks include microaggressions and the experiences of international students and faculty at UIC. ​

Three students petting a small dog

Wellness events

The Office of Equity & Inclusion is thrilled to partner with the Wellness Center and host events for students that are meaningful, relaxing, and fun. These activities have included: meditation, a sound bath exercise, and friendship bracelet making. We look forward to these and adding new activities to the calendar to bring joy and wellness to students in the College of Nursing.