We are delighted to announce that Dr. Ambar Faridi, associate professor of ophthalmology, has been named Director for Casey Eye Institute’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Program. The program seeks to integrate DEI into every activity and thought process in the department from patient care to education and research.    

“The principles of diversity, equity and inclusion are central to our culture and community at Casey Eye Institute and must be carried out with intention and focus – and I am excited to lead the department’s efforts.” said Faridi. 

Supported by the Casey Advancement of Diversity & Inclusion in Ophthalmology (CADIO) committee and Casey Eye Institute’s leadership team, the program has 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 underrepresented in medicine,” Faridi says. “CADIO will also continue to help advance our department’s work in achieving health equity – both in patient care and in research.  I’m also very excited to continue our OHSU and national partnerships in DEI.”  

Diversity, equity and inclusion are topics important both personally and professionally to Dr. Faridi. She has demonstrated leadership in DEI efforts in the department and at the university level, including as a founder and co-chair of the CADIO committee and member of the OHSU Diversity Affairs Committee. She has also received recognition as a national leader in DEI in ophthalmology and has repeatedly made popular presentations and educational content within the American Academy of Ophthalmology and the Association of University Professors in Ophthalmology.   

“DEI is important for many reasons,” she says. “A diverse community brings in diverse 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.”