Dear Colleagues,

Our department’s deep commitment to our people within a diverse and inclusive culture has been directly challenged by President Trump’s executive order limiting immigration from seven predominately Muslim countries. This immigration ban (while currently stayed by a federal court) has deeply affected many in our community and calls on each of us to reaffirm our support for all our faculty, staff and trainees.  We are enriched and strengthened—rather than weakened—by working in diverse teams in which each member brings his/her experiences to the task at hand.  

As noted by Emory University President Claire Sterk in her recent campus-wide communication: “Emory has stood for progress and knowledge many times throughout its history.” In these times of “alternative facts,” we are bound by our allegiance to scientific, evidence-based knowledge. It is also more important than ever that we take the time and effort to communicate the importance of scientific truths that guide us to continuously improve the care we provide to our patients; and to dogged pursuit of the innovation that will permit future discoveries relevant to human health. 

Best to all,

Carolyn