Office of Inclusive Excellence Newsletter
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MESSAGE FROM THE ASSOCIATE DEAN |
Welcome to the inaugural issue of The Common Thread, our new GW School of Nursing newsletter dedicated to inclusive excellence. The title of our newsletter and its logo of weaving the threads was chosen to reflect our core mission. Each member of our community is a vital thread, unique in background, experience, and perspective. This newsletter is founded on the principle that our community fabric is strongest when we intentionally weave these threads together, creating a vibrant tapestry of belonging.
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Our goal is simple, yet important: advancing health, nurturing, and belonging. In each issue, we will use this space to share resources, highlight the important equity work being done by our faculty, staff, and students, and celebrate the diverse stories that make us who we are.
I am proud to launch this new publication and look forward to building a more inclusive and connected community with all of you.
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HEALTH EQUITY FOCUS OF THE MONTH |
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Reimagining our Commitment from DEI to Inclusive Excellence |
For many years, the crucial work of building a better institution has been defined by three or four letters: D-E-I-A. Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility are foundational concepts that have helped us identify systemic barriers and begin the difficult work of dismantling them. But as our understanding evolves, so must our framework. This is why you will increasingly hear me, and others, refer to our efforts through the lens of Inclusive Excellence (IE).
This shift is a strategic and necessary reframing of our goals. Historically, DEIA initiatives, while well-intentioned, have often been treated as separate, parallel efforts. They could be siloed within a committee, viewed as the responsibility of a single office, or even perceived as "remedial" work separate from the "real" mission of the institution.
This additive approach, where diversity is "managed" and equity is a "problem" to be solved, misses the point. It frames our goals in terms of deficits. Inclusive Excellence, by contrast, is an active and integrated framework. It challenges this old assumption. The core principle of IE is that inclusion is not a separate goal, but a prerequisite for excellence.
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The GW SON Men in Nursing chapter is building community and strengthening student support across the program through intentional mentoring and engagement. The group meets once each semester to connect, reflect on chapter goals, and facilitate layered peer mentoring: 3rd- and 4th-semester students mentor 1st- and 2nd-semester students, while GW Nursing alumni members and graduate students provide mentorship to support students in the 3rd and 4th semesters.
Meetings also feature student-led presentations on men’s health topics, creating space for learning, dialogue, and professional growth. This year, the chapter is expanding its commitment to service and connection beyond campus. In the fall, members organized a Thanksgiving food drive, and they are exploring additional community service projects in the semesters ahead. Our chapter welcomes new ideas and involvement students interested in mentorship, men’s health education, or community service are encouraged to join and help shape what comes next.
FUN FACT: The GW Men in Nursing chapter has been recognized for the third consecutive year as a "Best School for Men in Nursing" by the American Association for Men in Nursing (AAMN) for fostering diversity and inclusion!
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Box breathing, also known as square breathing, is a simple deep breathing technique that can help you relax. It works by distracting your mind as you count to four, calming your nervous system, and decreasing stress in your body. If your mind is wandering at work or you need some help concentrating on a research project, you may want to give it a try.
Fun Fact: Box breathing is a technique practiced by Navy Seals.
For more detailed information on Box Breathing, click here.
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VOICES OF INCLUSIVE EXCELLENCE |
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Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Nursing |
Join Kendal Bailey and Dr. Stephan Davis, a nursing leader from Georgetown University. Dr. Davis shares his journey and passion for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in healthcare. Discover the vital role of bioethics in equitable patient care and his strategies for building a more diverse nursing workforce. Learn about fostering nursing leaders and inclusivity in the healthcare field.
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Sweet Treats with the Chief |
Join us on January 13, 2026, from 12:00pm - 1:00pm at the VSTC Innovation Hall Lobby to meet the GWPD Chief Victor V. Brito. This is a space and an opportunity where students, staff and faculty can share concerns, ask questions, and hear Chief Brito's vision in supporting and building community at our VSTC campus.
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You are invited to a special screening of Aging in America: Survive or Thrive on Thursday, January 22, 2026, from 4:00pm - 6:00pm at the VSTC Innovation Room 105.
This documentary celebrates the promise of increased longevity while addressing crucial and unprecedented public policy challenges. The film explores critical topics like ageism, healthcare, economic insecurity, and Alzheimer’s disease, using Dr. Robert Butler’s Pulitzer Prize-winning book Why Survive? as a guide.
The film raises timely questions about the health and social challenges that accompany longevity. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion and audience Q&A.
Extra credit will be offered for pre-licensure students (ABSN students) in select courses. *To qualify for extra credit students must attend the film in person and stay until the end of the panel Q&A. Watch for course-specific guidance from your faculty.
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Washington, DC's Winter Restaurant Week returns every January with the promise of high-quality dining, excellent deals and relief to the winter blues. Savor every last bite while taking advantage of special menus and pricing, including to-go options and cocktail and wine pairings, courtesy of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington and 200+ participating eateries.
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Honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day in DC – January 20, 2026 |
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CALL TO REFLECTION OR ACTION |
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Each month we will feature a call for reflection or a call to action. This space will feature a prompt designed to help you grow in relationship with yourself and others. Here is our first reflection prompt:
When have you felt truly included/excluded in your workspace, classroom, and what made the difference?
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