2024 Diversity & Inclusion Committee Leader Spotlight

Daniel Ayorinde, MD, Chair of the EMRA Diversity & Inclusion Committee, 2024

Program: Johns Hopkins Hospital

Your goal as an EMRA leader: - Foster interest in the field of Emergency Medicine
- Encourage community and collaboration amongst underrepresented minority populations within the field of emergency medicine
- Expose a widespread audience to relevant DEI-related topics in the field of emergency medicine
- Increase awareness and accessibility of EMRA's vast abundance of resources

Why get involved in a professional society? I joined EMRA to contribute to its impactful voice in emergency medicine, championing resolutions against oppressive legislation, advocating for scope of practice, and working towards the elimination of healthcare disparities. I'm proud to be part of this community driving positive changes in our specialty.

What do you think are the top three traits of a great leader? Adaptability, Relatability, Trustworthiness

Jessica Andre-Todd, MD, Chair-Elect of the EMRA Diversity & Inclusion Committee, 2024

Program: University of Chicago

Your goal as an EMRA leader:
My goal as an EMRA leader is to continue the efforts of my predecessors in providing resources for medical students and residents of diverse backgrounds while also bringing new ideas to the table that foster inclusivity and belonging both inside and outside the ED

Why did you get involved with a professional society? I got involved in a professional society to further develop my leadership skills and knowledge, connect with individuals of diverse backgrounds, and provide resources for students and peers that aid in professional development.

Top 3 traits of a great leader: The top three traits of a great leader are good communication skills, humility, and empathy 

What's the last non-textbook you read? Seven Days in June by Tia Williams

Favorite channel on social media? Gordon Ramsay or any account related to finding good food in Chicago

Dante Robinson, MD, Vice Chair of the EMRA Diversity & Inclusion Committee, 2024

Program: Kings County Hospital

Your goal as an EMRA leader:
One of my goals as an EMRA leader is to improve the ways in which we interact with our communities. In my opinion, we sometimes fall short in engaging in the communities were serve and potentially creating a space where more people of color can be inspired to become physicians themselves. In addition to engaging more ourselves, I find it necessary to supports programs and initiatives that have been doing this very thing for years.

What is the best advice you've ever received? The best advice I have ever received is that in all of your endeavors you should be giving your very best. No matter what the outcome is, your best is always good enough. 

Favorite channel on social media? My favorite channel on social media right now would probably be @UnbreakableKicks. I am really into collecting shoes and he is from Chicago like me so his content really resonates with me sometimes. 

What are your tops songs on your Spotify Wrapped? I dont use spotify but if I did they would be: All the Parties-Drake, Snooze- SZA, Gunna- Rodeo Dr, Metro Boomin-Umbrella

Keiry (Katie) Rodriguez, MD, Vice Chair of the EMRA Diversity & Inclusion Committee, 2024

Program: University of Pennsylvania

Your goal as an EMRA leader: As a first generation Latina, who attended Public School in a predominantly Hispanic and Black community, I have learned first-hand the negative impact of health disparities and the need for greater representation of minorities in the healthcare system. My goal as an EMRA leader is to contribute to EMRA’s mission in promoting a culture of diversity by raising awareness regarding diversity, equity, and inclusion. As a leader, I plan to connect with diverse groups, institutions, and individuals in order to foster collaborations that will promote diversity within the field. More specifically, through mentorship of minorities as well as resident curriculum proposals to highlight health disparities and how to address them. 

Why did you get involved in a professional society? I became involved in a professional society because I am passionate about advancing the field and advocating for the well-being and professional development of my colleagues and the future of Emergency Medicine. More specifically, I would like to contribute my experience in diversity work in order to support and perpetuate the growth and innovation of EM. This would also give me an opportunity to collaborate with like-minded individuals and have a meaningful impact as a team in contributing to the future of healthcare. I am committed to expanding the standards of patient care by advocating ways in addressing health disparities and ensuring that residents have the resources and support they need to thrive in their training programs, all while caring for underserved communities. Being a part of EMRA’s leadership would enable me to actively participate in shaping the future of EM and strive towards the betterment of our patients' lives.

What is the best advice you've ever received? ..remember to be kind to yourself.

What is something that people don't know about you? I enjoy DIY projects, I love making my own holiday decorations and my pride and joy is turning an old coffee table into a bench! 

If I weren't an emergency physician, I would be: An interior designer and party planner.

What are your tops songs on your Spotify Wrapped? Where She Goes, Bad Bunny, Manana,Tainy/ The Marias/Young Miko, Diluvio, Rauw Alejandro 

Janee Murray, MD, Vice Chair of the EMRA Diversity & Inclusion Committee, 2024

Program: UC Davis SOM

Your goal as an EMRA leader: To stay informed about important topics in EM, and to continue to develop as a physician leader. 

Why get involved in a professional society? I got involved in a professional society to be able to connect and collaborate with my fellow EM resident peers. 

What do you think are the top three traits of a great leader?Emotional intelligence, listening, and communication.

What is something that people don't know about you? I like to put black pepper on my popcorn. 

If I weren't an emergency physician, I would be: I would be a chef or restaurant owner. I love to cook and I love to bring people together and think that this could be a great way to do that!