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The current diversity, equity, and inclusion climate of the Association for Surgical Education

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Global Surgical Education - Journal of the Association for Surgical Education Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose

Diversity improves team innovation and productivity. The Association for Surgical Education (ASE) formed a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) task force to strengthen its efforts. This study aimed to characterize the current DEI climate of the ASE.

Methods

A modified Michigan 35-question climate survey was electronically distributed to all ASE members (n = 1117) and kept open for 7 months with completion encouraged during ASE events and via iterative reminders. Survey questions (10-point Likert scale) examined experiences and perceptions regarding inclusivity, collegiality, transparency, and discrimination. Open-ended questions were asked regarding improving member involvement, diversity and recruitment, and DEI task force goals. Respondent demographics were collected; identifying information was optional. Quantitative data were presented as percentages and qualitative data were coded into categories.

Results

The response rate was 20% (n = 220; 64% anonymous) with representation primarily from those who self-identified as white (65.3%), heterosexual/straight (85.4%), able (88.8%), from the US (94.8%), and physician (80%). Ratings were largely positive, especially regarding support, respect, and camaraderie (mean rating 8.3–8.4 on a 10 point scale). However, 4% reported experiencing discrimination (35% membership category, 35% gender, 23% age, 6% sexual orientation) and 12% had considered leaving the ASE. Qualitative categories identified the need for broader recruitment, better involvement and advancement opportunities, organizational transparency, structured mentorship, and DEI education and leadership support.

Conclusions

While overall feedback was positive supporting that the ASE maintains a welcoming and nurturing environment, nonresponse bias may exist. Clear opportunities were identified and will be used to guide future ASE efforts to champion DEI.

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Data availability statement

The data sets generated during and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to first thank the ASE members who responded to this survey and provided us the guidance and insight into this work. We would additionally like to thank the ASE Board, the ASE Membership committee, and the ASE DEI task force who provided support in the development, approval and dissemination of this survey. This document was reviewed and approved by the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Task Force and the Board of Directors of the Association for Surgical Education (ASE).

Funding

There was no funding for this study.

Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, 5323 Harry Hines Blvd., Dallas, TX, 75390-9159, USA

    Madhuri B. Nagaraj & Daniel J. Scott

  2. Department of Surgery, University of Michigan Health System, 2207 Taubman Center, 1500 E. Medical Center Dr., Ann Arbor, MI, 48109-5346, USA

    Gurjit Sandhu & Dana Telem

  3. Department of Surgery, Boston University School of Medicine, 88 East Newton Street, Collamore-C500, Boston, MA, 02118, USA

    Teviah E. Sachs & Tracey A. Dechert

  4. Department of Surgery, University of Florida, 1600 SW Archer Road, Gainesville, FL, 32610, USA

    Amalia Cochran

Authors
  1. Madhuri B. Nagaraj
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  3. Teviah E. Sachs
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  4. Dana Telem
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Madhuri B. Nagaraj.

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Nagaraj, M.B., Sandhu, G., Sachs, T.E. et al. The current diversity, equity, and inclusion climate of the Association for Surgical Education. Global Surg Educ 1, 23 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44186-022-00023-2

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