AMIA's Empowerment, Engagement and Representation initiatives embrace leadership, mentoring, evidence-based scholarship, community building and networking.
Initiatives stem from comprehensive recommendations from the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force in 2021 —a response to a national reckoning on racial injustice and accountability, the activism that followed, and the leadership of AMIA members who wanted to make difference.
Led by the E2R Committee, in 2025 AMIA’s Affirmation of Commitment to Diversity, Equity and Inclusion statement was announced confirming the alignment of E2R initiatives with AMIA’s strategic values of inclusivity and collaboration.
Empowerment, Engagement, Representation
Initiatives are primarily led and organized by E2R subcommittee members and volunteers.
Inclusive Language and Contact Style Guidelines
Developed in partnership with Columbia University’s Justice Informatics Group, these guidelines promote respectful and accurate scientific communication. They help de-stigmatize language and ensure inclusivity in research and publications.
Conference Workshops
E2R leads workshop sessions at AMIA’s annual symposium focused on equity, inclusive research practices, and community engagement. These workshops are designed to educate, inspire, and mobilize.
Inclusive Language Scientific Poster Recognition
E2R recognizes posters presented at the Annual Symposium that exemplify inclusive research and health equity.
Mentoring Circles
Designed to support career development and community building, Mentoring Circles connect members across career stages and disciplines. Participants gain guidance, share experiences, and build lasting professional relationships.
Networking
E2R hosts inclusive networking events that foster collaboration and connection. From committee leadership and project volunteering to LGBTQIA+ mixers and E2R receptions, these gatherings create space for dialogue, innovation, and shared purpose.
First Look for Students Program
This initiative led by the Women in AMIA introduces informatics to undergraduate and graduate students in S.T.E.M. programs but not yet engaged with informatics. The participants (30-40) are introduced to informatics field through education, mentorship, networking, and exposure to AMIA’s annual symposium.
First Look for Faculty Program
Tailored to reach faculty in informatics programs not yet connected to the AMIA community, this new program offers mentorship, leadership development, and opportunities to engage with AMIA’s broader faculty community.
Leadership Development
The E2R committees and subcommittees engage student and early career leaders, introducing them to volunteer leadership opportunities.
Inclusive Conference Environments
AMIA supports an inclusive conference environment including child-care options, dedicated rooms for nursing parents and low sensory needs; and gender-neutral bathroom options.