Congratulations to Joe Hetrick and Theresa Ho, who were honored last night with the Staff Award for Distinguished Leadership in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. This award was created to honor those who create a welcoming, supportive, and inclusive work environment. They embrace the value of diversity and recognize how it sets the University of Iowa apart.

Joe Hetrick is a senior IT director for research services. Hetrick has been a leader in creating new hiring programs that help to employ underrepresented groups in information technology at the University. He did this by collaborating to build a cross-campus pipeline, while lowering the barriers of entry. He is instrumental is creating a welcoming, team-based, and inclusive environment. He is committed to using inclusive practices and has inspired other managers of technology staff to do the same.

Theresa Ho is an associate research scientist in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology. She is active in outreach activities that aim to increase participation in underrepresented K-12 students and girls in STEM. During COVID-19, she continued to provide experiences for students, by developing creative ways for undergraduates to interact with K-12 students. She is dedicated to enhancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in her department, along with at the University of Iowa as a whole.

These award winners truly embody the mission of the Division of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, by providing leadership, coordinating diversity efforts, creating and enhancing inclusive climates, and connecting the larger community their DEI efforts. We are proud to honor Joe Hetrick and Theresa Ho and we congratulate them on their continued efforts to promote DEI at the University of Iowa.