# Navigating Nonlinear Pathways: Challenges and Opportunities for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leaders in Academic Emergency Medicine

## TL;DR

This study explores how leaders in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in emergency medicine reached their roles and the challenges they face in academia.

## Contribution

The study reveals nonlinear and informal pathways to DEI leadership and highlights undervalued DEI efforts in academic promotions.

## Key findings

- DEI leadership roles were often assumed informally or through volunteering, without initial intent or compensation.
- Roles and responsibilities were frequently self-defined, with mixed advantages and disadvantages.
- DEI efforts are often undervalued in academic promotions, with mentorship seen as key to success.

## Abstract

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leadership roles have grown in academic emergency medicine (EM). We sought to elucidate specific pathways to DEI leadership roles among current DEI leaders in academic EM.

From March to May 2023, we conducted semistructured, qualitative interviews with DEI leaders in academic EM across 5 US regions to investigate their pathways to leadership. Participants were recruited via email using Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education-accredited EM residency websites and the Academy for Diversity and Inclusion in EM. After recording and transcribing the interviews, we used an inductive approach to identify major themes.

Of 56 DEI leaders contacted, 25 agreed to participate, and 21 were interviewed. The median (range) interview duration was 34 (25-63) minutes. Leadership titles included directors, chairs, vice chairs, committee chairs, chiefs, advisors, and deans. Three major themes emerged: (1) nonlinear pathways—participants reached DEI roles through informal assumption, volunteering, or self-creation, often without initial aspiration or compensation; (2) undefined roles and expectations—roles and responsibilities were often determined by leaders themselves, with advantages and disadvantages; (3) variable perceived value in promotions—participants felt DEI efforts were frequently undervalued in academic promotion, with mentorship highlighted as crucial for translating DEI activities into academic achievements.

Our study provides important insights not only into the pathways to DEI leadership among current leaders in academic EM but also into the challenges and opportunities DEI leaders perceive when navigating roles, responsibilities, and academic promotion.