In recognition of the importance of inclusion, diversity, access and equity (IDA&E) 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.
Purpose
- To provide strategic direction to the Board and Society on advancing IDA&E priorities and ensure ongoing focus and integration of our Roadmap and Strategy recommendations.
Responsibilities
- Identify and support opportunities to expand outreach to under-represented populations for pursuit of careers in ID to help ensure a robust, empowered, and highly capable workforce
- Identify opportunities to leverage best practices in the ongoing review of policies, practices, processes, and communications and recommend enhancements
- Advise the Board on strategies and metrics for volunteer recruitment and increase engagement of under-represented groups in the organization
- Identify and support implementation of health equity priorities including involvement with external partners and potential funders
- Guide and monitor reporting of efforts across the organization
- Advance initiatives and work with stakeholders to ensure appropriate communications throughout the Society
Ideal Qualifications
- Working knowledge of IDA&E principles; prior involvement with related activities or service in similar capacity is helpful
- Strong interest in shaping the direction of IDSA’s culture, namely IDA&E policies, and practices
- Ability to lead and influence positive change with sensitivity and tact
- Experience integrating the principles of IDA&E in a professional setting is a plus
- Strong sense of community
Number of Members
Minimum of 11
Composition
Members shall include a Chair, Vice-Chair, seven at-large members, a non-voting Board liaison, and a non-voting Fellows Subcommittee liaison.
Meeting Frequency
Quarterly or as needed, by videoconference or in-person. Committee members will be asked to respond to email communications on a regular or as needed basis to provide input on emerging concepts or strategies. Committee members may also be asked to volunteer for working groups that require additional videoconferences and/or email communication.
Estimated Time/Effort Commitment
1-3 hours per month; additional time will be required if member participates in working group(s) for special projects.
Method of Appointment
The members shall be appointed by the Board of Directors, with input from the Leadership Development Committee, in consultation with the CEO, committee chair, and staff liaison.
Term of Office
The Chair and Vice Chair shall serve for two years. Reappointment for one additional, consecutive, one-year term is permissible. Members shall serve three-year terms with no option for consecutive reappointment.
Accountability
Reports to Board of Directors
Staff Liaison
Vice President of Talent and Organizational Development
ChairTina Tan, MD, FIDSA