Meet the team
Marlina Duncan, EdD
Why does DEI matter at UMass Chan: “To institutionalize policies and practices that support welcoming program climates and cultures for individuals from underrepresented groups is why I am committed to diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace.”
Read Marlina's bioLynn Hernández, PhD
Why does DEI matter at UMass Chan: “Diversity, equity and inclusion in medical education increase access to equitable health care and reduce health disparities; this is a priority in my personal and professional life.”
Read Lynn's bioMelissa Augustine, MLIS
Why does DEI matter at UMass Chan: "Diversity matters because disabled and neurodiverse members as a community are often seen as less valuable or worthy than our able-bodied and neurotypical peers. Disability justice is a key aspect of DEI, and one that forms a cornerstone of my work and research interests."
Read Melissa's bioCandice Brown
How my role supports DEI? "As a project manager, I develop innovative processes and detailed documentation to assist with the rollout of initiatives which build and sustain diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments, allow for improved efficiencies, and positive outcomes that advance our strategic goals. My role also helps ensure accountability for our institutional DEI efforts, with a particular focus on assessing campus climate & monitoring progress on our strategic plan. As a diverse staff member, I collaborate with colleagues to accomplish DEI goals that create effective working environments which support myself and others like me. Very exciting!"
Read Candice's bioHolly Brown
How does your role support DEI at UMass Chan? "Being part of a team that shares the same core values and influencing people through education and awareness of systemic inequity makes my work fulfilling."
Read Holly's bioTiffany E. Cook, MA
How does your role support DEI at UMass Chan? “Supporting diversity, equity and inclusion requires a critical skillset built on constant learning, self reflection and integration into every part of our lives, both personal and professional. As I have grown as an educator, I have come to prioritize meeting people wherever they are in their learning journeys, learning from their experiences and perspectives, and then doing the work to challenge and support them in their development.”
Read Tiffany's bioFernanda Gama
What keeps you engaged in DEI work at UMass Chan? "Growing up in Portugal under a dictatorship, I had no power to influence or change people’s mindset or systems. The Diversity and Inclusion Office has allowed me to be part of a team that shares the same core values of equity, equal justice and opportunity for everyone. In my personal and professional life, I have influenced people through education and raised awareness about inequity and long for the day when systemic bias and oppression no longer exist."
Read Fernanda's bioJanjay K. Innis, MDiv
How does your role support DEI at UMass Chan: “Storytelling holds us accountable to the diversity, equity and inclusion commitments we make and to the marginalized groups whose presence, voices and gifts we claim to want at the table.”
Read Janjay's bioJeanna Lee, PhD
Why does DEI matter at UMass Chan: "DEI matters in order to create an inclusive environment. We want to be a place where learners, faculty and staff from marginalized groups can report discrimination and we want a process in handling complaints to be a positive one. My role is to focus on nurturing a culture of inclusion and belonging."
Read Jeanna's bioAngela Printy
How does your role support DEI at UMass Chan? “I believe that both qualitative and quantitative data are crucial tools, especially when it comes to making decisions that impact change. Data can help tell the story and I have the privilege of bringing those insights to the university every day.”
Read Angela's bioJorge Sanchez, MEd
Why does DEI matter at UMass Chan: "Critical to our individual and organizational success is the ability to operate, participate and engage fully in our communities and environments, where our differences are celebrated and amplified and we all feel that we measure up, matter and belong. I love being a catalyst in facilitating this process."
Read Jorge's bioJules Trobaugh, MFA, EdD
How does your role support DEI at UMass Chan? “I love to be creative and to teach and I find naturally human behavior fascinating. This role allows my talents to shine and leave the world a better place than how I found it!”
Read Jules's bio