The UCR School of Medicine has been selected as one of 46 institutions of higher education in the health professions to receive the 2020 Health Professions Higher Education Excellence in Diversity, or HEED, Award from INSIGHT into Diversity magazine.

The medical school previously received the award in 2018 and 2019. This year, it was the only University of California health professions school to be recognized. 

Dr. Deborah Deas, vice chancellor for health sciences and Mark and Pam Rubin Dean of the School of Medicine, thanked students, trainees, staff, faculty, and community partners for their contribution.

“This consistent level of national recognition is a testament to each of you and your commitment to putting our mission at the heart of the work you do every day,” she said. “I could not be prouder or more grateful for your efforts and your passion for this important work.”

Dr. Takesha Cooper, an associate clinical professor of psychiatry, added: “As equity advisors in the School of Medicine, Brandon Brown and I are particularly proud of this award as it highlights the continued commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion for the whole SOM community.”

The Health Professions HEED Award is the only national honor recognizing U.S. medical, dental, pharmacy, osteopathic, nursing, veterinary, allied health, and other health schools and centers that demonstrate an outstanding commitment to diversity and inclusion across their campuses. The 46 honorees will be featured in the December 2020 issue of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine.

 The Health Professions HEED Award process consists of a comprehensive and rigorous application that includes questions relating to the recruitment and retention of students and employees and best practices for both, continued leadership support for diversity, and other aspects of campus diversity and inclusion.