Content warning: Be aware that this message contains topics that may be activating for survivors of gender and racial violence. The Confidential Advocacy Program can be reached 24/7 by calling 833-495-2277. Additional resources for OHSU members are available here.

*** OHSU President Danny Jacobs, M.D., M.P.H., and OHSU Board of Directors Chair Wayne Monfries shared this message with the OHSU community Thursday, Dec. 16, 2021 ***

Dear OHSU Community Members,

Like many of you, we have spent the last several days reviewing the Covington report. Some parts of the narrative are difficult to read and have caused a range of feelings and emotions for members across the institution that reflect each individual’s experiences. It pains us to know that people have faced such challenges while working and learning at OHSU. The report, in addition to what we have been hearing from our members, makes clear the work we need to do and we are committed to doing. 

To address these findings and consistent with the first goal in our 2025 strategic plan, “to build a diverse, equitable environment where all can thrive and excel,” we will:

• Convene an implementation committee for Covington’s recommendations focused on planning and adoption with metrics and milestones for measuring progress that will be regularly shared with our members.  
• Create an oversight committee to ensure accountability that will report to the president, board of directors and implementation committee. 

Both committees will include members from across our academic health center with a variety of roles and experiences. The oversight committee will include faculty members, learners, and union and employee resource group members, among others. More information will be forthcoming on the process for participating and serving on these committees. 

Covington’s recommendations just provide the floor, not the ceiling, and we can’t stop there. Evolving our culture does not have an end date. We have more hard work to do. It will not be easy. Every day, our decisions and actions impact our environment and the experience of those around us. With this in mind, we must be conscious of how we approach our work each day to positively shape the OHSU culture. 

We are committed to helping our institution do and be better, and we all must hold ourselves accountable — not only as leaders but as members of our organization and communities. 

Sincerely yours,

Danny Jacobs, M.D., M.P.H.
President

Wayne Monfries
Chair
OHSU Board of Directors