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I wanted to take a moment to address a critical issue that has come to the forefront of our conversations following the recent Supreme Court ruling overturning affirmative action in academic admissions.
At Rochester Regional Health, our strategy has always been to mirror the communities in which we operate. Our goal is not to establish quotas, but rather to set intentional and meaningful goals that align with the demographics of our patient populations. We firmly believe that by having team members who reflect the diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives of our communities, we have the best ability to provide the highest quality of care and services.
As the CEO of this healthcare system, I can say unequivocally that Rochester Regional Health’s team must be fully representative of the diverse communities we serve. We believe in attracting and hiring exceptional talent from all backgrounds, including underrepresented minorities, as a means of enriching our organization and enhancing the quality of care we provide.
To reinforce this commitment, we will continue to focus on the three cornerstones of improving workplace culture, supporting physician recruitment and working to reduce community health disparities. As a recipient of the “Top 3 Healthcare Diversity Organization” designation from the HealthCare Diversity Council, we recognize that diversity goes beyond race and extends to socioeconomic status, gender, age and more. Our goal is to foster an inclusive environment where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.
Further, Rochester Regional’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion can be seen clearly throughout the nearly 60 year operation of Rochester General College of Health Careers and the Isabella Graham Hart School of Practical Nursing where we have committed to educate a diverse body of future health care workers who represent our community and the patients we all care for.
Let me be clear, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion is not a matter of political correctness or affirmative action -- it is a fundamental belief that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to deliver exceptional care and create positive health outcomes for all.
I invite you to join us in this crucial conversation and support our collective efforts to build a more inclusive future. Let's champion diversity, equity, and inclusion as core values that not only shape our organizations but also transform lives.
