The Importance of Culture

It is hard to overemphasize the importance of a culture where everyone feels they truly belong. Research from the American Psychological Association connects this sense of belonging to "happier, healthier, and more productive employees."

In December 2023, a group of dedicated faculty and staff members, led by IU Indianapolis professors Teresa Sosa and Emilio Robles, surveyed our Latine faculty and staff, analyzed the qualitative and quantitative data collected during this process, and hosted a series of events to better understand the challenges and opportunities faced by our Latine colleagues. Some of the key takeaways include increasing Latine representation and leadership in our activities, creating opportunities for recognition, ensuring equity in compensation, providing professional development opportunities, and creating spaces and places for social connection. In listening to Prof. Robles present these findings at our Chancellor’s Diversity Cabinet meeting on Wednesday, October 8, 2024, I appreciated his emphasis on bringing intentionality into our work.

The discussion that followed was insightful, as we heard about the commendable work being done in units like the IU Indy School of Dentistry. Kudos to our faculty, staff, and students at the School of Dentistry for making programmatic changes ranging from teaching of basic Spanish to dentistry students so they can improve service to patients they see in the clinic, to offering service learning programs that allow students to experience the different cultures represented by the patients they serve here in Indianapolis.

As we build a community of engaged colleagues, we will always search for better ways to onboard, develop, recognize, and promote our colleagues. We need everyone to be engaged in this work. I encourage you to read the report, and, as always, please send your input, comments, and questions.

Go Jags!

Latha Ramchand
Chancellor