Chiquita A. Collins, PhD, MA, chief diversity officer and vice dean for Inclusion and Diversity for the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine and associate vice president of Inclusive Excellence and Health Equity for UT Health San Antonio, has been appointed to serve as chair of the Association of American Medical Colleges Group on Diversity and Inclusion.
The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) is a nonprofit association dedicated to transforming health through medical education, health care, medical research and community collaboration. Founded in 1876 and based in Washington, D.C., the association leads the academic medicine community to improve the health of people everywhere, serving 172 accredited medical schools and 400 teaching hospitals and health systems.
“The AAMC is the leading organization in the country that provides direction and guidance in the provisions of medical education throughout the country. This is definitely a prestigious role and I’m humbled, and appreciate having this opportunity,” Dr. Collins said.
The AAMC’s Group on Diversity and Inclusion serves as the voice of equity, diversity and inclusion across the medical education spectrum. The group works to develop strategic initiatives that cultivate and advance a diverse and culturally prepared workforce.
“Our guidance and consultation influence the Council of Deans and other AAMC affinity groups by supporting initiatives and projects to advance diversity, equity and inclusion across all academic health centers,” Dr. Collins said. “I am honored and excited to serve in this capacity and look forward to leading, learning and listening as we continue to make impact.”
Dr. Collins’ chair appointment is a five-year commitment. She has served two years as chair-elect (2019-2021), and will now serve two years as chair (2021-2023) and an additional year as past-chair (2023-2024).