Diversity & Inclusion
The Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine recognizes, values, and affirms that diversity contributes richness to the College and enhances the quality of education. Students, faculty, staff, and administrators are valued for their diversity. ACOM is committed to providing an academic and employment environment in which students and employees are treated with courtesy, respect, and dignity. It is the policy of ACOM that no student or employee shall be excluded from participating in, be denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination in any program sponsored by ACOM.
ACOM’s Institutional Diversity Council vision is an academic community where human differences are respected by valuing minority voices, championing awareness, and addressing disparities. We promote a learning and working environment of purposeful awareness and deliberate action which support the development of physicians who will, in turn, prioritize sensitivity and inclusivity as critical facets of excellent patient care.
2022-2023 Institutional Diversity Council
Chanté Richardson, PhD, MBA
Faculty
Chair
Audrey Vasauskas, PhD
Faculty
Benford Mafuvadze, PhD
Faculty
Kim Chosie, LPC-S
Staff
Yasmine Hill, MPhil
Staff
OMS-II Soumya Sidana
Student
OMS-III, Ciara Alvarez
Student
Angalina Quiñones
Student, Class of 2025
SGA Director of Diversity
One Table.
Where everyone has a seat.
One Table is about more than the differences we bring to the table. The concept centers around the idea that no matter who we are, we are coming to one table – sharing a goal, a vision, as a community.
Diversity Events
Diversity Week
Diversity Week celebrates what makes us unique as individuals. It provides an opportunity to bring greater understanding of our academic community through educational awareness and cultural experiences. The week’s activities include discussion panels, recreational events, food tasting, guest speakers and workshops. This event takes place annually in the Fall.
COM-Unity Day
COM-Unity Day celebrates what brings us together. It’s about coming to one table, sharing a goal, a vision, as a community. During the day, we take the opportunity to share a meal, connect, have some fun and serve others. This event takes place annually in the Spring.
Student Clubs & Organizations
APAMSA is a national medical student association committed to addressing the unique health challenges of Asian and Pacific Islander American (APIA) communities. Members have the opportunity to volunteer at various health fairs, attend lectures, and go to national conferences. Most importantly, ACOM’s APAMSA is known for its bubble tea sales. Join for free and don’t forget your bubble tea!
Christian Medical Ministry of Alabama (CMMA) offers students a chance to interact with local medical professionals in the healthcare world while finding a place for community, support, and growth both spiritually and professionally. Our purpose is to help students know Christ more through discipleship, relationship, and strive to send them out well equipped into an ever-changing world. CMMA provides opportunities like Winter Weekend Retreat allowing medical students a time to get away to develop spiritually and connect with different medical students in Alabama. Other opportunities include medical mission trips to the Dominican Republic, where medical students have the opportunity to work with doctors to develop clinical plans and perform medical procedures while being able to grow in their faith within the medical field. CMMA offers a weekly bible study that allows anyone an opportunity to bond i a culture of discipleship where we stretch ourselves to grow in our love for God and people.
Global & Public Health Advocates (GPHA) is ACOM’s DOCARE International chapter. The mission of DOCARE International is to provide healthcare to under-resourced communities around the world. At ACOM, GPHA plans medical outreach trips and hosts public health activities throughout the year, including free HIV testing.
The Jewish Medical Student Association (JMSA) provides a welcoming space for Jewish ACOM students to connect with each other and share their faith. JMSA also provides a great place for all ACOM students to learn about and experience the Jewish religion and culture through service, holidays and food. Members of JMSA will also be able to learn from various Jewish healthcare providers as guest speakers and be able to connect with the local community.
The purpose of the Latino Medical Student Association will be to provide members – along with ACOM students – with the resources to advocate for the health of the Latinx community. By starting from the ground up in Dothan, we will not only try to effect change at home but across the entire nation. We will work to provide a voice for those underrepresented through service and events. We hope to instill these values into this organization to aid future medical students of ACOM.
Mental Health Awareness Task Force is a committee of the ACOM SGA dedicated to raising awareness and promoting the mental health of the ACOM student body. Through events such as guest speakers, activities to promote de-stressing, informational posters, and DO Day of Wellness, it is MHATF goal of helping our students achieve optimal psychosocial health throughout their time at ACOM. Lastly, our Committee Members and First Year Liaisons are dedicated to providing monthly activities and/or posters, but also peer support when sought out for help.
Military Interest Group is an organization geared towards medical students who are currently participating in or interested in military medicine. MIG provides support and guidance for those in the process of applying for military scholarships, preparing for officer training, customs and courtesies, and other aspects unique to military medicine.
Our mission is to foster an environment of spiritual growth, strengthen the networking efforts between Muslim students and promote awareness of Islam through community service, prayer and education at the Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Student National Medical Association (SNMA) is committed to supporting current and future underrepresented medical students, addressing the needs of underserved communities, and increasing the number of clinically excellent, culturally competent, and socially conscious physicians. SNMA boasts over forty years of committed service to medically underserved communities and continues to advocate for improved health care services and education to meet the needs of minority and underserved populations. Any ACOM student who has a passion for the medically underserved is welcome and encouraged to join!