Planting a Seed for Equity in Teaching

In this episode, Angela speaks with Aleen Shah, MS, PA-C, Assistant Professor in the Department of PA Studies, and Kenya Johnson, PT, MA, CHC, Manager of Student, Professional & Career Development for Undergraduate Studies, about their work in diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in the College of Health Sciences (CHS) at Rush University. Aleen also serves as the Chair of the CHS Diversity Committee and Kenya is Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion programming.  Among other topics, Aleen and Kenya reflect on their training and leadership in The National SEED Project and more generally, how to foster a safe and inclusive classroom where students feel empowered to reflect on their own stories and identities as an integral part of their health sciences education and as future practitioners. Specific suggestions are made for how to update your curriculum with inclusive language and approaches while being mindful of diverse perspectives and experiences. For more information on the SEED project and other DEI initiatives at Rush, contact Aleen at [email protected] and Kenya at [email protected].