Veronica Carey, PhD, CPRP, associate clinical professor, was recently appointed as the Assistant Dean of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the College of Nursing and Health Profession.

 

"My first task in this new role is to work with board members in each department to ensure that all students, faculty and staff feel included and involved in the University," Carey explained. "Diversity stretches beyond race and religion. In many cases, inclusion incorporates gender, age and even profession. So I am charged with making sure that we as a University are aware of the needs of everyone throughout the College."

 

Carey feels that her experiences both traveling abroad and here at Drexel will allow her to provide a unique perspective on instilling equity and inclusion.

 

"This past May, I acted as moderator for a unique program entitled ‘Global Minds, What Students Need to Know.’ This presentation focused on mental health and how it is treated in different countries around the world. The event was hosted in an effort to start a global conversation between students and faculty by having participants connect via Skype with professionals from India, Pakistan, Nigeria, Singapore, Korea and China. Experiences like this have enabled me to bring together people from all walks of life and professional backgrounds."

 

As Carey takes on this new role she will be charged with identifying how effective CNHP is in meeting the needs of faculty, staff and students and seeing in what ways the College can be more responsive.

 

"I believe the most important component in encouraging diversity, equity and inclusion is being responsive. Understanding the needs of others and being involved in meeting those needs is hypercritical to maintaining diversity."