Navigating Nonlinear Pathways: Challenges and Opportunities for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leaders in Academic Emergency Medicine

Authors

Melanie F Molina
Annika Bhananker
Beatrice Torres
Dalia Owda
Edgardo Ordoñez
Anita N Chary

Publication Date

4-1-2025

Journal

Journal of the American College of Emergency Physicians Open

DOI

10.1016/j.acepjo.2025.100060

PMID

40034199

PMCID

PMC11874557

PubMedCentral® Posted Date

2-14-2025

PubMedCentral® Full Text Version

Post-print

Published Open-Access

yes

Keywords

diversity, equity, inclusion, emergency medicine

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leadership roles have grown in academic emergency medicine (EM). We sought to elucidate specific pathways to DEI leadership roles among current DEI leaders in academic EM.

METHODS: From March to May 2023, we conducted semistructured, qualitative interviews with DEI leaders in academic EM across 5 US regions to investigate their pathways to leadership. Participants were recruited via email using Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited EM residency websites and the Academy for Diversity and Inclusion in EM. After recording and transcribing the interviews, we used an inductive approach to identify major themes.

RESULTS: Of 56 DEI leaders contacted, 25 agreed to participate, and 21 were interviewed. The median (range) interview duration was 34 (25-63) minutes. Leadership titles included directors, chairs, vice chairs, committee chairs, chiefs, advisors, and deans. Three major themes emerged: (1) nonlinear pathways-participants reached DEI roles through informal assumption, volunteering, or self-creation, often without initial aspiration or compensation; (2) undefined roles and expectations-roles and responsibilities were often determined by leaders themselves, with advantages and disadvantages; (3) variable perceived value in promotions-participants felt DEI efforts were frequently undervalued in academic promotion, with mentorship highlighted as crucial for translating DEI activities into academic achievements.

CONCLUSION: Our study provides important insights not only into the pathways to DEI leadership among current leaders in academic EM but also into the challenges and opportunities DEI leaders perceive when navigating roles, responsibilities, and academic promotion.