Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Rehabilitation Medicine Equity, Diversity & Inclusion council
(REDI council)
We are a group of individuals working together to create a diverse, equitable and welcoming environment for everyone in the department. Dr. Debbie Kartin, PT, PhD, Professor Emeritus chaired the Diversity Recruitment and Retention council (DRRC) from 2007-2017. In 2019 the DRRC changed its name to the Rehabilitation Equity Diversity and Inclusion (REDI) Council of the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine to reflect the continually evolving conceptualization of diversity and inclusion. The REDI council underwent a restricting in 2024 to streamline its organization and work.
Mission: To create and foster a diverse, inclusive and equitable environment where everyone belongs.
REDI Goals:
- Advocate for initiatives/procedures/protocols/ strategies to create and support diversity in our student body/trainees, faculty and staff.
- Inform and promote the ongoing development of open and inclusive learning environments.
- Serve as a resource for all members of the department to consult on EDI related issues.
- Facilitate/organize community-building and networking events for staff, faculty, students/trainees.
- Connect and collaborate with the larger EDI community within the SOM and UW to create best practices to accomplish our mission.
REDI Council Members
REDI Council Leadership
- Sujata Pradhan, PT, PHD
- Ann Yamane, MEd, CO/LO
- Vickie Corrin, MAT
- Bernadette Williams-York, PT, DSc
REDI Council Members
Members are appointed for an initial 3-year term with the option of re-appointment.
Academic Subgroup:
- Carolyn Baylor
- Michelle Cangialosi
- Felicia Mata-Greve
Research Subgroup:
- Cody McDonald
- Silas James
- Heather Feldner
Clinical Subgroup:
- Lyndsey Booker
- Christine Chilaka
- Nyx C. Ward
REDI Student Ambassadors
The primary function of the student REDI Ambassador is to lead and participate in outreach efforts offered at the University of Washington, local schools and events. As an ambassador, they provide the student’s perspective regarding attending the UW and the DPT, MOT and MPO programs. Their participation involves volunteering and speaking about the professions and programs offered in the Department of Rehabilitation Medicine. The REDI council student Ambassadors are expected to attend the monthly REDI council meetings and/or meet with the REDI council leadership once a month. We welcome the REDI Ambassador’s voice and participation in the creation and implementation of programs and events for prospective and current students. If you have any questions about applying for these positions, please send us an email at rehabedi@uw.edu.
Current student ambassadors (appointed in Spring 2024):
- John Williams Jr.
- Xiaoyuan Hu
- Ana Espindola Garzon
REDI Resources
The University of Washington and UW Medicine offer an array of resources and programs to encourage and celebrate diversity.
Professional Organizations
Many rehabilitation organizations devote resources to encouraging diversity in the profession. They provide links to scholarship opportunities and other resources for individuals from minority backgrounds. Search the websites below to access additional resources:
- Americal Physical Therapy Association
- American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA)
- American Orthotic and Prosthetic Association
- American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (AAPMR)
- American Psychological Association
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- National Rehabilitation Counseling Association (NRCA)
Office of Healthcare Equity
Health Sciences Center Minority Student Program
The Health Sciences Center Minority Student Program seeks to increase diversity at each level of academia by helping to bridge subsequent levels of academic training from undergraduate to professional and graduate. Services include graduate and professional school application assistance, resume editing, interview preparation, academic advising and counseling, and undergraduate research opportunities.
University of Washington Minority Affairs & Diversity
The University of Washington Minority Affairs & Diversity website provides information on college planning and preparation, services for University of Washington students, as well as University programs and initiatives that promote curriculum, faculty and staff diversity.
University of Washington Graduate Student Equity & Excellence
The University of Washington Graduate Student Equity & Excellence (GSEE) program is a division of the University of Washington that is committed to serving the needs of students of color and those from underrepresented groups, while providing opportunities for all students to learn and develop through experiences rich in cultural, ethnic, and racial diversity.