Associate Professor of Biostatistics and Epidemiology serves on first ever DEI panel at ASGCT annual conference

Dr. Deirdra Terrell, Associate Professor of Biostatistics & Epidemiology, was invited to present on the American Society of Gene and Cell Therapy's first ever Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Expert Panel at this year's annual conference. 

The panelists discussed microaggressions, allyship, improving diversity in clinical trials, and best practices for promoting equitable environments. 

Dr. Terrell, who has worked with DEI for for almost 20 years, discussed the importance of inclusion in professional societies, providing practical steps for organizations.

"Sometimes the work is uncomfortable but it’s important to not only ask hard questions but be willing to listen to the lived experiences of others and truly listen and not just try to defend yourself. When most people think about diversity equity and inclusion they focus on the diversity aspect and much less on what it means to create a climate of inclusion," Dr. Terrell said.