McKelvey Engineering launches EDI certificate program

Program for faculty and staff designed to integrate EDI into daily practice

Beth Miller 02.28.2024

The McKelvey School of Engineering will launch a new equity, diversion and inclusion (EDI) certificate program for employees this spring. Spearheaded by the McKelvey Engineering Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Committee, the program aims to provide faculty and staff with the opportunity to learn, practice and implement EDI skills within the school.

A major focus of the certificate is to help faculty and staff learn and practice the skills needed on their journey towards equity and inclusion at WashU, said Marcus Foston, associate professor of energy, environmental & chemical engineering and director of diversity initiatives.

“I see this certificate as a powerful community-building tool,” he said. “We aim to identify, inspire and organize a community within McKelvey that is deeply committed to evolving towards being more equitable, diverse and inclusive. This is one of the critical ways we can achieve that transformation. By wrapping the EDI Engage series in customized Integrated Group Coaching sessions and an annual EDI summit, we offer a space for this community to interact.”

Certificate curriculum will be divided into two phases. Phase 1, which will require 20 hours of coursework and group coaching sessions, will be based on the Office of Institutional Equity’s Engage EDI curriculum, which includes a seven-class Commit Series to help employees develop the skills to enact EDI work in long-lasting ways.

Participants will complete the classes on their own time schedules and will discuss what they’ve learned in at least four 90-minute integrative group coaching sessions during which they will complete group projects. They’ll also be invited to a Microsoft Teams workspace to continue the discussions.

Phase 2 requires a minimum 10 hour-practicum in EDI, including joining an organization recognized for doing EDI work or service or completing a project that will further EDI efforts in McKelvey Engineering.

The program will conclude with an EDI summit open to all McKelvey Engineering students, faculty and staff, which will include guest speakers and workshops, and a celebration for those who complete both phases. Those who complete the program may also be nominated for awards that recognize outstanding EDI ambassadorship or service.

“I am incredibly excited to pilot this EDI certificate program and to lead the Integrated Group Coaching sessions,” said Ariana Jasarevic, EDI specialist in McKelvey Engineering. “It's a unique opportunity to meet our community exactly where they are and to facilitate a space where productive, meaningful conversations about equity, diversity and inclusion can flourish. Our goal is not just to educate but to inspire reflection and action that leads to real change within McKelvey Engineering.”

Interested participants may apply here by March 22, 2024. For more information, contact Ariana Jasarevic, EDI specialist in McKelvey Engineering, at jasarevic_a@wustl.edu or visit engineering.wustl.edu/about/diversity/EDI-certificate.html.