Diversity Equity Inclusion

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Update November 2020

New Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Introduction While progress towards true social and medical justice in our society will take time, we have made some tremendous strides in our work at Northern Light Health. Our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Council (a new name) and the work of all our people make this possible. For them I am thankful.

“I am bicultural/bilingual myself and extremely dedicated to all types of diversity, equity, and inclusion matters. I would like to empower all members of our community, help bridge gaps, eliminate barriers, and promote care and compassion for all.”

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Council Activity

The Council has agreed on a series of steps within our 16-month System Goals that will enhance our culture of caring and inclusion and embrace diversity. The goals including operationalizing at least two specific recommendations in areas of diversity in recruitment or hiring, expanding our welcoming and community efforts for providers and others coming into Maine and their families, and potential other initiatives that reflect our culture of caring.

Marwa Hassanien accepted the position of director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and started on November 9. Marwa reports to senior vice president and chief Human Resources officer, Paul Bolin. Northern Light Health created the position to ensure that our work around embracing and promoting ideals that advance a system where social and medical justice helps define our promise of making healthcare work for the people of Maine. Marwa has a strong background in education and most recently served as an adjunct faculty at University of Maine and Eastern Maine Community College. She holds a Master of Arts in Education, a Master of Science in Linguistics, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Technical Writing. She is currently a

doctoral candidate in Literacy at UMaine. In her role, Marwa will advance the work plan of the DEI Council. Among her other duties will be supporting the chief quality officer on medical justice initiatives and training, and engage with community and patient groups. Marwa says she was attracted to this job because she understands the many issues that are prevalent today, “I am bicultural/bilingual myself and extremely dedicated to all types of diversity, equity, and inclusion matters. I would like to empower all members of our community, help bridge gaps, eliminate barriers, and promote care and compassion for all.”

As it meets monthly over the coming months, the Council will continue to work on refining its goals and implementing effective training and support for our initiatives.

The Council further reviewed and approved materials that indicate Northern Light Health’s commitment to diversity. Over the fall and winter, these signs and stickers will be placed prominently in public areas throughout our facilities to demonstrate public commitment.

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