Huntsman Cancer Institute is committed to a culture defined by justice. We are familiar with tackling major and complex challenges, like cancer. To that end, we know we will fall short of our vision to deliver a cancer-free frontier if we fail to tackle oppression in all its forms.
Equity, diversity, and inclusion are integral to our pledge to put the patient and community first as we strive to reduce cancer burden in our state and region. We will create consistent, ongoing meaningful changes that result in a more just, equitable, and inclusive environment.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Huntsman Cancer Institute’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) critically examines, disrupts, and aims to eliminate inequities in our policies, practices, and systems. In partnership with leaders and teams around the organization, the Office of EDI provides solutions for every person, no matter their identity, to access effective scientific discovery, cancer education and care, and professional opportunities.
In July 2020, Huntsman Cancer Institute's executive leadership team announced the following:
- Establish EDI as pillar of Huntsman Cancer Institute 2025 Strategic Plan.
- Establish Huntsman Cancer Institute EDI Commission to make recommendations to Huntsman Cancer Institute CEO and executive leadership on equality and justice issues.
- Display daily, visible public statements of Huntsman Cancer Institute’s commitment to end racism.
- Commit $1 million to establish Huntsman Cancer Institute Endowed Chair to advance EDI.
- Expand Huntsman Cancer Institute EDI Office; increase financial commitment to $250,000/year to support EDI goals, including new dedicated staff.
- Appoint Dr. Kola Okuyemi as EDI executive director, direct report to Huntsman Cancer Institute CEO.
Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Team
Kolawole Okuyemi, MD, MPH
Executive Director
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Chair
Department of Family and Preventive Medicine
Natasha Ovuoba, MEd Candidate, BS
Associate Director
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Anna Marsden, MBA, BS
Senior Program Manager
PathMaker Program
Office of Cancer Training and Career Enhancement
Katty Del Pilar Youd, MA, BA
Program Manager
Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Tiffany Hoang, MHA Candidate, BS
Executive Assistant
Offices of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion; Strategy; and Finance
Andrew Langi, MPH, MHA, BS
Project Administrator
Clinical Trials
Research Manager
Spencer F. Eccles School of Medicine
Emily Kay, MBA, MA, BA
Regional Coordinating Director
Geographical Management of Cancer Health Disparities (GMaP)
Strategic Priorities
Huntsman Cancer Institute’s 2021-2025 Office of EDI strategy will align with the University of Utah’s EDI 4-Pillar Strategic Plan to develop language, values, and practices that will continue our work towards Shared Equity Leadership.
Land Acknowledgement
Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah rests on Indigenous land that reflects the rich history of our state and region. We are committed to honoring, respecting, and protecting the story and the People of this sacred place.
