we can purposefully learn and grow from those who are different than ourselves because diversity can be our biggest strength . Each of us thinks , communicates , loves , believes , and moves differently through the world . These differences impact the way that we make decisions , perceive interactions , and desire health care services . Students and educators alike should account for these differences and provide a space where everyone feels they can not only care for others but provide culturally competent healthcare .”
Working closely with administration and DEI committees across the Health Sciences campus , which include students , faculty , and staff , Lanham will develop and implement strategic goals and priorities . Their focus will include , but is not limited to , health equity and cultural awareness education and training , programming and its impact on culture , attitudes , and beliefs , and recruitment and admissions to increase diversity among faculty , staff , and the student body .
They will also maintain a collaborative relationship with leadership across campus , serving as the liaison for implementation of university-wide DEI efforts on the Health Sciences campus .
collaborating with the WVU Division of DEI , the six Health Sciences DEI committees , the WVU Medicine director of DEI , and other DEI mission-focused groups .
“ We are very pleased to welcome Courtney into this important role at WVU Health Sciences ,” Louise Veselicky , associate vice president for academic affairs at Health Sciences , said . “ They have demonstrated leadership in creating a safe , diverse , and welcoming community at WVU , and I am confident that Courtney ’ s compassion , enthusiasm , and visionary outlook will further advance an environment that embodies our Mountaineer values .”
Committed to ongoing DEI initiatives across campus , Lanham has served as a member of the Center for Excellence in Disabilities Diversity Committee and the Health Sciences DEI Cross-Cutting Committee since 2016 and 2018 , respectively , and currently leads the committees as chair .
They plan to continue developing a culture of inclusive excellence by engaging members of the WVU community from all backgrounds and levels of the institution to ensure future impact is intentional and representative .
“ I am beyond excited and thankful to be stepping into the director of diversity role ,” Lanham said . “ Getting to know individuals across campus by making personal connections and hearing their experiences is important for me as we work together to build a more inclusive future that will benefit Health Sciences , the university , and all West Virginians . My vision is to create spaces where
“ Courtney is already an outstanding and effective advocate and a strong partner with the division , including as a member of the WVU DEI Council ,” Meshea Poore , vice president for DEI , said . “ They have shown leadership and initiative . Courtney is unafraid of having the tough conversations that need to take place . This new role will give them even more opportunities to shine and make a positive impact at the Health Sciences campus and beyond , and we look forward to continuing to work closely together .”
Lanham is recognized across the region for their training on topics , including inclusive language , accessibility , intellectual and developmental disabilities , and trauma-informed care . They have also been an invited speaker and presenter for numerous conferences , panels , workshops , and courses .
A two-time WVU graduate , Lanham has spent nearly a decade serving the university ’ s Center for Excellence in Disabilities , most recently as a training specialist .
They also serve as an instructor for the center ’ s Country Roads Program and an adjunct professor in the school of social work .
Lanham ’ s experience includes coordinating and providing support for the expansion , implementation , and participation in training efforts ; developing courses and evaluation processes ; and expanding training , continuing education , and professional development opportunities for students , professionals , and community members .
They earned a Master of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the Eberly College of Arts and Sciences .
Image : WVU Photography . Courtney Lanham joins WVU Health Sciences as the new director of diversity , equity , and inclusion .
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