IDSA converts IDA&E Task Force to New Committee to Continue Inclusion, Diversity, Access and Equity Focus
In recognition of the importance of inclusion, diversity, access and equity as long-term priorities and core values for IDSA, the Society’s Board of Directors recently approved the creation of a permanent IDA&E Committee.
The new committee will build on the efforts of IDSA’s IDA&E Task Force, which was established in late 2018 to develop a framework and recommendations to ensure the implementation and full integration of IDA&E principles throughout the Society. Extended several times, the group has continued its work over the past several years. During the COVID-19 pandemic, its focus has expanded to highlight the need to address structural inequities and health and racial disparities through journal articles, collaborations and content for the COVID Health Equity Resources section of the COVID-19 Real-Time Learning Network.
Converting the current task force into a permanent part of IDSA’s governance structure will ensure an ongoing focus on and integration of the Society’s IDA&E Roadmap and Strategies in addition to providing strategic direction to the board of directors on advancing IDA&E priorities. The committee’s charge is to:
- Advise, guide, monitor and report on efforts across the organization;
- Identify opportunities to leverage best practices in the ongoing review of policies, practices, processes and communications and recommend enhancements;
- Advise the Society’s leadership on strategies and metrics for volunteer recruitment and increasing engagement of underrepresented groups in IDSA;
- Identify and support implementation of health equity priorities, including involvement with external partners and potential funders;
- Advance initiatives and work with stakeholders to ensure appropriate communications of efforts throughout the Society;
- Identify and support opportunities to expand outreach to underrepresented populations to pursue careers in ID to help ensure a robust, empowered and highly capable workforce.
The IDA&E Committee will consist of a chair, vice chair and nine additional at-large members. While several task force members will serve on the committee in 2022, IDSA is seeking a volunteer to join the committee as of Jan. 1. The deadline to express interest, via this link, is Nov. 26.
Update: We are happy to announce that we have fully staffed our IDA&E Committee – click here to learn more.
About IDSA
The Infectious Diseases Society of America is a community of more than 12,000 physicians, scientists and public health experts who specialize in infectious diseases. Its purpose is to improve the health of individuals, communities and society by promoting excellence in patient care, education, research, public health and prevention relating to infectious diseases. Learn more at www.idsociety.org.