Building Connections, Creating Change
Community Engagement & Advocacy Week was held the week of March 23rd, 2026. It was a week for faculty, staff, and trainees dedicated to connection, collaboration, and progress. Together, we explored ideas, shared expertise, and championed initiatives that strengthen the Department of Medicine. See CEA Week highlights below.
Cultural Wall
Throughout the week, community members contributed to the Cultural Wall by sharing where they’re from on a world map, submitting recipes and food photos, highlighting languages spoken, and sharing songs and lyrics meaningful to their cultures. Stations at events and QR codes across campus made participation accessible and engaging.
Monday, March 23rd
DEIA Pilot Grant Awardees Presentations
Kaku So‑Armah, PhD led a panel discussion with the 2025 DOM DEIA Pilot Grant Awardees, who presented updates on their projects. Presentations highlighted efforts to diversify cardiac biobanks through community engagement, expand longitudinal mentorship in high school science training programs, and improve transitions of care for immigrant and refugee patients through accessible, multilingual tools.
Tuesday, March 24th
BMC Organizational Development DEIA Workshop
BMC Organizational Development facilitated an interactive workshop focused on building inclusive, equitable, and psychologically safe teams. Participants explored practical strategies aligned with the BMCHS Culture Code, including recognizing bias, leveraging team strengths, fostering connection, and engaging in healthy conflict.
Wednesday, March 25th
Wellness Wednesday | Evans Conference Rooms | 9 AM – 4 PM
Wednesday offered a full day of wellness-focused activities designed to support rest, creativity, and connection. Attendees participated in arts and crafts, shared lunch together, enjoyed chair massages, and connected with Healing Pups—creating space to recharge during the workday.
Thursday, March 26th
Cultural Lunch
Thursday’s Cultural Lunch brought community members together over food, featuring dishes from a wide range of cultural backgrounds. The event fostered connection and conversation while celebrating the diversity represented across our campus.
Friday, March 27th
Grand Rounds
CEA Week concluded with Grand Rounds focused on strengthening care for immigrant communities. Facilitated by Chief Medical Resident Camilo Toro, the panel brought together clinical leaders, community advocates, and policy experts for a rich discussion on collaboration, advocacy, and culturally responsive care.