The SVS Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee continues to make strides in advancing inclusivity within the organization, with several projects underway to address both ongoing challenges and new opportunities.
The DEI Committee has seen considerable progress since its inception, following the transition from a task force to a standing committee, says Chair Rana Afifi, MD, who outlined upcoming initiatives, emphasizing the importance of education and representation in fostering an inclusive environment.
Afifi noted that the committee’s work is now informed by a comprehensive report that evaluates SVS progress in DEI efforts. The report highlights positive strides, but also underscores areas where work remains, she said.
One key area of focus is enhancing inclusivity within the committee itself. Afifi explained that certain demographics remain underrepresented.
One of the committee’s upcoming initiatives is an educational campaign designed to broaden understanding of DEI issues, not only in terms of race and ethnicity, but also factors like neurodiversity, ageism, and other social and structural determinants of health. The campaign will feature 20 microlearning modules, based on storytelling and practical, everyday scenarios.
“Education is key,” Afifi emphasized. “A lot of the sensitivity and resistance around DEI comes from misinformation and a lack of understanding.”
The first of these modules is expected to be piloted within the next two months, with full rollout anticipated within the year. Afifi expressed hope that these educational materials will facilitate more open and constructive conversations around DEI, moving away from the tense or sensitive nature that can often surround such discussions.
“The goal is not just to improve awareness but to make DEI an integral part of daily practice and patient care within the vascular surgery community,” Afifi said.
In addition to educational outreach, the DEI Committee is preparing for its third annual DEI Summit, scheduled for December. Although not yet open to the public, the summit aims to engage a broad range of vascular societies, both regional and international, in a unified effort to address DEI challenges. Afifi emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting that the committee is working closely with other SVS committees—such as the Vascular Annual Meeting (VAM) Committee—to ensure that DEI principles are integrated across various organizational efforts. “We are working in collaboration with other committees to ensure that DEI is not just a checklist but has actual impact and results,” Afifi said.
The committee has been actively involved in supporting SVS members who are working on DEI-related projects, offering guidance and assistance in publishing articles and developing educational resources.
One of the key challenges identified is improving racial and ethnic diversity within SVS membership. While the organization has seen a slight increase in diversity, Afifi acknowledged that this progress is not enough
“We need to be intentional about increasing diversity within the SVS, especially in leadership roles,” said Afifi. The committee has been working closely with the Appointments and Nominations committees to ensure that diverse candidates are considered for leadership positions, but more needs to be done to encourage members from underrepresented groups to apply.
“We can’t improve representation if we don’t have people applying for these roles,” Afifi pointed out. The committee is actively reaching out to affinity societies and exploring ways to remove barriers that may be preventing members from pursuing leadership opportunities.
As chair, Afifi has set several goals for her term, with education and increased representation at the forefront. She hopes that the new educational campaign will help dispel misconceptions about DEI and make it a more approachable topic within the SVS.
“I’m not naive enough to think we can solve everything, but I do hope we can move the needle and make some real progress,” said Afifi.
The committee is also focused on fostering collaboration between the various SVS sections, seeking ways to ensure that all are included in DEI discussions, possibly by appointing permanent liaisons from underrepresented groups.
