Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion at ASV
The American Society for Virology (ASV) is devoted to promoting an inclusive and diverse group of virologists. We strive to create a discrimination-free environment where anyone who wishes to study viruses can do so, regardless of their age, race, gender identity, religion, disability, sexuality, or socio-economic status. As a global community, we are dedicated to training all scientists to value and support diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. Our goal is to advance scientific discoveries and educate communities worldwide about the significance of virus research and understanding of viral diseases.
Mission
The ASV DEI committee has a three-fold mission. First, promote and facilitate a culture of inclusion, and create a diverse and inclusive environment within ASV. Second, provide leadership, resources, and programming to all members, ensuring the historically marginalized individuals feel welcomed in ASV. Third, establish and continually assess tools and practices that encourage and maintain awareness of the need for inclusion of all scientists in the ASV community, thus building a sustainable culture.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee
Rushika Perera, Chair (2025)
Cara Pager, Vice Chair (2025)
Patricia Aguilar (2023)
Pheonah Badu (2025)
Kaleigh Connors (2024)
Patrick Dolan (2026)
Hinh Ly (2025)
Chioma M Okeoma (2024)
Akira Ono (2024)
Theadore Pierson (2025)
John Purdy (2023)
Laura St Clair (2025)
Jillian Carmichael, Ex Officio (2024)
Chelsey Spriggs, Ex Officio (2023)
ASV Mentor Matching Program
ASV is launching a Mentor Matching Program! Sign-up now to find a mentor, be a mentor, or both!
For more information, use the buttons below.
Prospective Mentees
Want advice on career transitions?
Want to connect with scientists who are like you?
Sign up to be matched with a mentor!
Prospective Mentors
Want to mentor the next generation of virologists?
Want to support scientists like you?
Sign up to be in our mentor pool!
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Committee Strategic Plan
Read the full strategic plan here.
1. RAISE AWARENESS
Action: Raising Awareness at the Annual ASV Conference
Objective: Promote diversity and increase equity and inclusion at the annual society meeting, and other events and activities
Action: Raising Awareness in the Virology Community
Objective: Increase diversity and create and support a culture of equity and inclusion in the ASV community year-round
2. APPOINTMENTS AND NOMINATIONS
Action: Diversify Leadership and Participation in the Virology Community
Objective: Promote diversity and advance equity and inclusion of leadership and participation in the virology community
3. ENHANCE ACCESSIBILITY AND INCLUSION
Action: Improve Accessibility at the Annual ASV Annual Meeting
Objective: To enhance the participation at the ASV annual meeting by removing/reducing physical and financial accessibility barriers.
4. ENHANCE DEI COMMUNICATION PLATFORMS, CONSTRUCTIVE CONVERSATIONS & FEEDBACK
Action: Synergize and Amplify DEI Efforts Within ASV
Objective: Synchronize DEI efforts within ASV and sister organizations.
5. DIVERSIFY THE VIROLOGY WORKFORCE
Action: Enhance the Diversity of Virologists in the Workforce
Objective: Grow a well-trained and diverse virology workforce.
6. MENTORING AND TRAINING
Action: Establish a Mentoring Program for ASV Members
Objective: Create a program for mentoring and the development of professional skills.
7. ASSESSMENT
Action: Continually Assess the DEI Climate and Landscape
Objective: Develop the methods and infrastructure to accomplish the goals and activities of the ASV DEI Committee.