Overview
The Department of Medicine LGBTQ+ Council, formed in 2021, advises the department chair on matters related to gender identity and sexual orientation equity, makes recommendations to ensure an equitable and inclusive environment in the department, and plans and implements activities that promote sexual orientation and gender identity equity.
“The council will foster LGBTQ+ community among residents, staff and faculty, promote visibility, and brainstorm the ways we can improve the working lives of LGBTQ+ physicians at UW’s various clinical sites,” said Dr. Kevin Steehler, inaugural co-chair.
The LGBTQ+ Council will work to 1) find ways to support, retain and provide opportunities for career advancement and leadership training for LGTBQ+ faculty/staff/trainees; 2) examine conditions of employment such as compensation and work environment, and find ways to prevent harassment, and improve the climate in the department; and 3) increase the visibility and accessibility of LGBTQ+ staff/faculty/trainees in the department.
“In my training, I sought after – and lacked – openly visible LGBTQ+ mentors,” said Dr. Steven Disharoon, inaugural co-chair. “With the creation of the new LGBTQ+ Council, I am hopeful that we will not only be able to foster community and enhance visibility of all the amazing LGBTQ+ faculty, staff, and trainees in the Department of Medicine, but also be able to work towards fostering an even more inclusive work environment.”
This council will be collecting data and reaching out across the department to work on the united goals of ensuring an equitable and inclusive environment and promoting sexual orientation and gender identity equity in the Department of Medicine.
“I am thrilled that we have formed this council,” said Department Chair Dr. Barbara Jung. “And I am committed to creating a safe and equitable place to work. We need to promote an inclusive environment across the department for all to be successful.”
Co-Chair
Dr. Shiv Bhandari (he/him)
Acting Instructor
General Internal Medicine
Council Members
Sean Greenlee
Program Manager for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Department of Medicine
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Member spotlights
Brad Rolf, MS, CGC
"Representation is important. I am able to live openly and freely as a gay man because many who came before me advocated for recognition, dignity, and respect. I joined the UW DOM LGBTQ+ Council to work on initiatives that will help others see how they are welcomed, included, and celebrated at UW Medicine."