Lecture: Fifth Annual Linda D. Wood Lecture on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in Physical Therapy

Introduction

• Welcome by Dr. Susan Dinger
• Honors Dr. Linda D. Woodruff, a trailblazer in DEI
• Collaborative event by six organizations
• Inspires innovation and solutions to DEI issues

Dr. Linda D. Woodruff's Legacy

• Trailblazer and advocate for social justice
• Integrated public schools in Lynchburg, Virginia, in 1962
• Graduate of Case Western University in 1971
• First Black assistant professor at University of North Carolina (1976)
• Founded minority Recruitment and Retention program in Georgia
• Contributions to academic and professional physical therapy communities
• Recipient of several prestigious awards

Today's Lecture and Panel Discussion

• Delivered by Dr. Julian McGee
• Dr. McGee's background: assistant director of DEI at Washington University
• Discussion moderated by Dr. Rebecca Seagraves
• Features Dr. Wayne Brewer, Dr. Shannon Richardson, and Dr. Kina Corvis

Dr. Julian McGee's Lecture Highlights

• Expresses honor to speak about DEI
• Challenges faced in DEI work
• Emphasizes transformation and leadership of Dr. Woodruff
• Discusses the realities and challenges in DEI efforts
• Raises awareness of legislative retrenchment against DEI
• Encourages flexibility and resilience in the DEI fight

Challenges of DEI in Physical Therapy

• Retrenchment against affirmative action
• Impacts on college admissions and corporate funding for minority initiatives
• DEI officers' roles and challenges in DPT programs
• High burnout rates among minority students

Strategies for Addressing Challenges

• Dr. McGee on leveraging skills within the profession
• Encourages financial literacy and strategic planning for students
• Importance of self-care and community support
• Teaching methods to integrate DEI into the curriculum

Panel Discussion Highlights

• Dr. Brewer: Importance of small, incremental change
• Dr. Corvis: Flexibility and adaptability in DEI efforts
• Dr. Richardson: Importance of understanding and addressing student needs

Conclusion

• Encourages reflection and ongoing commitment to DEI
• Call to action for revolution in the profession
• Emphasis on collective efforts and community building

Final Thoughts

• Resilience through self-care and community
• Importance of personal and collective growth
• Commitment to ongoing DEI work to transform the profession and society
• Dr. McGee's concluding thoughts on the legacy of Dr. Woodruff and personal growth