Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in Ophthalmology
A message from the director
Dear All,
Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) are central to our culture and community at Casey Eye Institute and affect each one of us. They must be carried out with intention and focus, and I am excited to lead the department’s efforts. We have set our sights on integrating DEIB into every activity and thought process in the department, from patient care to education and research and in support of every team member.
The values of DEIB are essential in our department because we know that a diverse community brings in different and unique perspectives that provide valuable information – for example, about unmet needs, unjust policies, and what we are doing right. With diverse representation, we are much better equipped to cultivate an inclusive workplace, patient care experience, and educational setting – one in which each individual knows they belong exactly as they are and are given the tools and resources they need to thrive.
With the support of the Casey Advancement of Diversity and Inclusion in Ophthalmology (CADIO) committee and Casey Eye Institute’s leadership team, the program has already gained significant momentum with its departmental activities.
I look forward to continuing to work with CADIO members on our many ongoing initiatives, including departmental DEI education, recruitment guided by holistic review and bias reduction, and mentorship of individuals who have experienced significant disadvantage or adversity. CADIO will also continue to help advance our department’s work in achieving health equity – both in patient care and in research.
Thank you,
Ambar Faridi, M.D.
Associate Professor of Ophthalmology
Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Associate Residency Program Director
OHSU Casey Eye Institute
Ambar Faridi, M.D.
Associate Professor of Ophthalmology,
Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
About
Casey Eye Institute's mission is to eliminate preventable blindness and improve quality of life through leadership in the art, science, and technology of 21st century eye care. Central to this mission is to support measures that promote and maintain a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) in the OHSU Department of Ophthalmology.
Our commitment
We are committed to:
- The recruitment and retention of staff, faculty, and trainees from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
- The education of all employees on DEIB topics through Grand Rounds, interactive workshops, and didactic sessions.
- Intentional and sustained efforts to provide equitable patient care and vision research in an inclusive work and healthcare environment.
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Following the guidelines set forth in the SOM DEI Strategic Action Plan and the principles outlined in the OHSU Inclusive Language Guide and Inclusive Recruitment & Retention Manual.
CADIO Committee takes the lead
The Casey Advancement of Diversity and Inclusion in Ophthalmology (CADIO) Committee leads the efforts to improve DEIB within the department and with the support of Casey Eye Institute Leadership. The CADIO Committee is made up of staff, clinical and research faculty, and resident members from diverse backgrounds and divisions within our department.
Together, committee members meet quarterly to plan and carry out a broad range of initiatives aligned to enhance DEIB.
CADIO Committee initiatives and programs include:
- Implementation of Departmental DEIB Education and Training.
- Recruitment of all staff, trainees, and faculty with employment of holistic review and bias reduction practices.
- Collaboration with colleagues across OHSU and beyond to advance healthcare and inclusion for all.
2025 CADIO Committee Membership
- Nicole Deloney, PAS Resource Specialist
- Radwa Elsharawi, M.D., PGY-4, Chief Resident, Education
- Ambar Faridi, M.D., Associate Professor
- Donald Hubbard II, M.D., PGY-4, Chief Resident, Wellness and Teambuilding
- Eliesa Ing, M.D., Associate Professor
- Mary Kelley, Ph.D., Associate Professor
- Joycelyn Niimi, O.D., Assistant Professor
- John Ng, M.D., Professor
- Shelby Roether, PAS Resource Specialist
- Gilliaun Thomas, Practice Manager
- Merina Thomas, M.D., Assistant Professor
- Alison Skalet, M.D., Ph.D., Associate Professor
- Kate Stout, Executive Assistant, Administration
- Allison Summers, O.D., Associate Professor
- Ogul Uner, M.D., PGY-4, Chief Resident, Recruitment
- Verian Wedeking, Outreach Program Director
- Lorri Wilson, M.D., Associate Professor
Training Programs
Join the Jump Start research program for post-baccalaureate scholars
Jump Start is designed for post-baccalaureate scholars to gain the research experience and professional skills needed for acceptance to graduate school and to thrive in a professional research career.
This program is seeking individuals who have experienced significant disadvantage or adversity (i.e. first-generation college graduate; recipient of social service resources while in elementary or secondary school, enhanced education or other programs for diverse populations; or by experience of economic, cultural, educational, or family adversity). Previous benchwork experience in coursework is required.
The program includes a stipend for eight consecutive weeks from mid-June through mid-August. It is considered a full-time position with 40 hours per week divided between the lab (30-35 hours) and professional skills sessions (5-10 hours).
Participants will be paired with a faculty mentor from OHSU Casey Eye Institute, and will receive training on conducting research, working in a lab, scientific writing, presenting a poster, and more.
How to apply
The application deadline is March 20, 2025. The application includes your resume and a personal statement that answers the following questions:
- Why are you interested in Jump Start? Briefly tell us about yourself.
- Why do you think you will be a good candidate?
- How this program will help to achieve your future goals?
Please email questions and application materials (resume and personal statement) to Dr. Mary Kelley with a copy to Kate Stout.
Undergraduate Observership in Ophthalmology
This undergraduate observership is a week-long clinical shadowing experience designed to expose students to the practice of ophthalmology and related eye care specialties. Students will also receive professional networking, collaboration, and mentorship to help them pursue careers in medicine.
This program is designed for undergraduate students who have demonstrated an interest in the medical field, particularly ophthalmology, vision science, and/or other eye care. This program is available for persons who have experienced significant disadvantage or adversity (i.e. first-generation college graduate; recipient of social service resources while in elementary or secondary school, enhanced education or other programs for diverse populations; or by experience of economic, cultural, educational, or family adversity).
The application cycle for 2025 is now closed.
If you have questions, please contact Kate Stout.
Diversity Visiting Medical Student Ophthalmology Rotation Scholarship
As part of our efforts to increase diversity in Oregon’s ophthalmology community, we are honored to provide scholarship support for qualifying visiting medical students accepted into our 4-week ophthalmology elective.
The experience will include:
- 4-week rotation in clinical ophthalmology
- Mentorship
- Possibility for scholarly projects in collaboration with faculty and residents
- Stipend
The scholarship is supported by a stipend funded by the Department of Ophthalmology’s DEIB efforts.
Interested medical students must first apply via the VSLO® for Students & Residents. After submission of the VSLO application and acceptance to the 4-week ophthalmology elective at Casey Eye Institute, interested students can apply through the Qualtrics form.