Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Access, and Belonging

A Message from the Chief Diversity Officer

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is recognized as a leader in higher education. The Cancer Center at Illinois is a part of this leadership legacy.

I am thrilled to be part of an organization committed to building a truly inclusive and equitable environment. As the Chief Diversity Officer, my primary goal is to help develop and ensure that each cancer center member feels included and integrated into the Cancer Center at Illinois’ fabric. We are committed to fostering a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and supported. We aim to advance belonging, demonstrate empathy, and promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA).

Since our inception as the Cancer Community of Illinois, the precursor of the Cancer Center at Illinois in 2010, we have been evident in focus and intention – to move strategically toward inclusive excellence. We have embedded DEIA into our policies, practices, and training opportunities. This has helped us enhance our educational initiatives and outcomes and enriches the growth of our community and community members while promoting a culture of acceptance, understanding, and mutual respect.

Our initiatives are DEIA-focused programs. Additionally, we strive to identify and dismantle systemic barriers and provide guidance, consulting services, and resources to enrich our center. We want to hear from you – please share your voice, vigor, and vitality by being present at our program and activities so that the Cancer Center at Illinois can develop into an inclusive excellence example.

Don’t be shy. Stop by the Cancer Center at Illinois and say hello. Our doors are open.

Inclusively yours,

Margaret Browne Huntt
Chief Diversity Officer
Cancer Center at Illinois