The first in a series of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion seminars presented by the Try Harder, Be Better (2021 grant recipients) and the One Health Institute
Date: Tuesday, October 19
Speaker: Sara Bombaci, MS, PhD (Colorado State University)
Talk Title: "Conserving Biodiversity & Diversifying Conservation through a Social Justice Lens"
A diversity of knowledge, experiences, and identities is essential for academic excellence, and a growing body of literature demonstrates that inclusion of diverse groups yields more innovative and impactful science. Yet, many barriers limit certain groups from participating in conservation science, and in STEM disciplines more broadly. Here I share key findings from my scientific research identifying and addressing barriers to equitable inclusion of diverse groups in conservation science and practice and discuss how these findings can be used to foster transformative institutional change. I further share emerging research from my lab at the intersection of conservation science and social justice and discuss how approaching wildlife conservation through a social justice lens can generate innovative insights for conserving healthy wildlife and human communities.