Mekbib Gemeda, Assistant Dean for Diversity Affairs and Community Health

The Office of Diversity Affairs fosters an inclusive climate at the School of Medicine and the hospitals of the Medical Center and promotes cultural competency in health care.

The Office was expanded in 2005 to develop and support diversity initiatives for all NYU Medical Center faculty, staff, and trainees and to advance the recruitment and professional development of underrepresented groups in biomedicine at the New York University Medical Center. The Office upholds the medical center's commitment to excellence in Medicine and Biomedical Research by developing programs to identify and nurture talent from our diverse society. In addition, the office promotes acquisition by the Medical Center Community of cultural skills related to the training and professional development of health care professionals and to the treatment of the diverse patient populations served by NYU Medical Center.

The Office works closely with the various departments and with students and faculty from underrepresented minority groups to ensure that mentoring and professional development needs are adequately met. Seminars and discussions organized by the office on diversity in health care and education stimulate institution-wide conversation on diversity and culture. The office is involved in promoting interaction and building partnerships with organizations and community groups engaged in developing a diverse health care workforce and reducing health disparities. It also supports the Medical Center’s interest in global health by exploring collaboration with institutions in the developing world.

Office of Diversity Affairs Advisory Board
The ODA Advisory Board consists of faculty, students, and house staff that provide advice and
guidance to the Office of Diversity Affairs.