Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI) recognizes that increasing representation and advancing inclusion is critical to our core mission of exploration and discovery in a diverse and connected world. It is not enough to state that we believe in diversity, equity, and inclusion. We need to take action to create a culture in which the voices of all people are fully heard and fully included, because it is the right thing to do. We recognize that there are many barriers facing people from traditionally marginalized groups and are committed to identifying and removing those barriers for richer academic discussion and a healthier research community.

Meet the team and collaborators »

Core Values

We value and commit to creating an intentionally welcoming, and inclusive community that prioritizes diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility

We are committed to identifying and removing barriers to access and success at WHOI and within the larger science, technical, and engineering community

We will be flexible in our approaches, embracing our innovative and entrepreneurial spirit

We will systematize accountability and transparency of these efforts

Focus Areas for 2024

Recruitment

Improve recruitment, hiring, and admission processes to increase diversity at the institution.

Training

Provide education and development opportunities to employees on DEI-related topics to increase understanding, awareness, and cultural competence.

Programming and Partnerships

Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through initiatives and partnerships with external organizations and communities.
Tribal Liaison

Data

Track and analyze diversity metrics to measure progress, identify gaps, and inform decision-making.

Workplace Climate/Culture

Foster a supportive and inclusive environment where all employees feel valued, respected, and empowered.

Land Acknowledgement

We collectively acknowledge that Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution is located on the unceded ancestral and contemporary land of the Wampanoag peoples. We acknowledge the Mashpee, Aquinnah, Herring Pond, and Assonet Wampanoag Tribes as the original stewards and protectors of this land and surrounding waters. We recognize the perpetuated detrimental effects that systemic governmental oppressions have had on indigenous communities as a result of colonization. By offering this land acknowledgement we accept our responsibility to understand this history, invest in reconciliation, and build accountable partnerships with these communities.

Tribal Webpages

Digital Assets

Slide Template

This land acknowledgement was created with input from elders of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. While it is not compulsory, please feel free to use this text in the classroom, on your syllabus or when introducing events or research presentations on the WHOI campus, and invite your audience to learn more about the Wampanoag Nations today. More information can be found at the links on the right.