Inclusion initiatives

The Wayne State University Department of Physics and Astronomy embraces inclusion as fundamental to academic excellence, scientific innovation and societal progress. We recognize that fostering an inclusive community is essential for enriching intellectual discourse and cultivating a supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

Objectives

• We strive to create a welcoming and just environment where students, faculty and staff from all backgrounds feel valued, respected and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.
• We embrace the ongoing journey of learning, reflection and growth. As such, we invite feedback from our community members and remain open to evolving our practices to better serve the needs of all individuals.

Reporting

Any kind of harassment or aggression, major or micro, is a serious concern to or physics and astronomy department. If you find yourself in a situation outside the normal expectations of a friendly, inclusive, professional, safe and supportive environment, here is the place to get help.

File a Confidential Incident Report

We aim to unlock the full potential of our department and fulfill our collective mission of advancing knowledge, fostering innovation and preparing future leaders. Together, we strive to create a more just, equitable and inclusive world.

Resources

Wayne State

• Commission on the Status of Women: Gender, equity, justice and career development for women from the WSU President’s Office.
• Learning & Development Series: Providing inclusion training workshops for all members of the WSU community.
• Family Advocacy Network: Providing advice on family leave, caregiver support, tenure clock extensions and other aspects of managing work/family/life circumstances.
• Office of Inclusive Excellence: A central source for many of Wayne State's inclusion efforts in many offices.
• Office of Equal Opportunity: Provides contact with WSU’s Department of Human Resources.
• Office of Multicultural Student Engagement: Support for under-represented/historically excluded students.
• Student Disability Services: Support services and training for students with disabilities.
• Title IX Office: Offers incident reporting and training courses.

Physics and astronomy

• American Association for the Advancement of Science: Diversity, equity and inclusion
• American Association of Physics Teachers: Diversity equity and inclusion
• American Astronomical Society, Committee on the Status of Women
• American Institute of Physics diversity initiatives
• American Physical Society, Inclusion, Diversity and Equity Alliance
• American Physical Society, Women in Physics
• National Society of Black Physicists
• Society for Advancement of Chicanos/Hispanics and Native Americans in Science
• Out in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics