Drexel Bio grad students are being asked to help with virtual interviews for finalists for our department head. We had 17 candidates. The final 4 are ALL. WHITE. MEN. /thread

For a research program in the heart of Philadelphia, in a department largely filled with predominantly female and many POC students, this is disappointing. Representation matters.

I'm so tired of lip service about diversity and inclusion. I want to see results! I want to see women and people of color included in "top candidates" lists! I want to be led by people who look like me and my friends!!!! And don't tell me they didn't apply

Because the thing about representation is that it is REQUIRED to fully understand the wants and needs of a group. It is required to have voices heard and needs met. It's required for change. Representation at the top can be instrumental.

And lastly, I can't even tell you how discouraging it is for me, and the many other women, POC, and diverse identities in the sciences WHO WISH TO PERSUE ACADEMIA to constantly see white men given platforms and leadership...

... all while our voices and concerns remain unheard. Science academia was built for white men, and continues to support and uplift them at the expense of everyone else.

DO BETTER DREXEL. DO BETTER ACADEMIA.

/end rant