Time for Change—George Floyd

Last week, I was deeply saddened to learn of the tragic death of Mr. George Floyd. My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with the Floyd, Arbery, and Taylor families during these most difficult times.

There are too many examples in our country’s history of our police force treating people of color unequally. The pattern of racial discrimination, brutality, and fatal violence against black people must stop.

Our Chief Diversity Officer, Robert Sellers, has first-hand experience and openly shares his personal journey here. I firmly align myself with President Schlissel as he calls on all of us to act on our scholarship and the education of our innovative faculty, students, and staff, to bring about change not just within the university, but in our broader society. 

The only way to build a strong and inclusive aerospace community is to treat all people with dignity and respect, and listen to their unique, diverse perspectives. The department’s DEI and Outreach committees are moving forward with unwavering resolve to ensure that our department is welcoming and inclusive. These beliefs are central to our College values as well. My colleagues Robert Scott, Project Manager for Special Diversity Initiatives, and Sara Pozzi, Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, co-wrote an article that shows steps we can all take to the fight against racism. 

Please visit our Aerospace Engineering DEI Resources for a list of student, faculty, and staff diversity, equity, and inclusion resources. Additionally, there are many University resources available to anyone in need of support at this time; I urge you to use them. Engineering students can receive support through the Michigan Engineering CARE Center or U-M Counseling and Psychological Services. All faculty and staff can access services through the Faculty and Staff Counseling and Consultation Office.

Dear community, it is time for change. Please know that you are not alone … I am with you as we work together to eradicate racism in our society.

—Tony Waas, Department Chair