As one of a growing group of volunteers involved in AIChE’s diversity and inclusion efforts, I’m proud to announce a soon-to-launch online community for professional members who are LGBTQ+ or allies. In addition to me, a professor at the University of Minnesota, the core working group for this initiative includes Tony Butterfield, professor, University of Utah; Stephanie Farrell, professor, Rowan University; and Peter Schwalbenberg, process engineer, Inolex. Elsa Lopez-Toglia, diversity and inclusion expert. Steve Smith, director of publications and communications, and John Vasko, manager of content & community, are providing AIChE staff support.
Discussion/Community purpose
Topics of discussion will include the ongoing development of LGBTQ+ initiatives within AIChE, plus issues concerning, and opportunities for, LGBTQ+ chemical engineering professionals.
Who can join?
This discussion community is open to professional AIChE members (including graduate students/Young Professionals) who identify as LGBTQ+ or as an ally of LGBTQ+ members. At this point, the community is not open to undergraduate student members, but an undergraduate community may develop in the future.
Privacy and code of conduct
The messages, threads, and your participation in this community will be viewable only by members of this community. Anyone who would like to join the community will need to complete this form and to abide by AIChE Engage's Code of Conduct. Violation of the code of conduct will result in being removed from the community.
Launch date
We’re hoping to launch the community in November. You’ll receive an email notifying you of its launch.
How can I join?
Click on the “Join us!” link below. You’ll be taken to a form where you can express your interest in joining the community.
AIChE diversity initiatives
In 2015, AIChE developed published its Diversity & Inclusion Statement and began developing programming with volunteers for a variety of diversity and inclusion initiatives. Among these are Safe Zone workshops and receptions for LGBTQ+ and allies at both the Annual and Spring meetings. In 2017, we began publishing Featured LGBTQ+ Chemical Engineering Professional blog posts to help showcase LGBTQ+ members contributing to our profession.
Learn more about AIChE's Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives.
Share your story
Are you an LGBTQ chemical engineer and AIChE member interested in sharing your story to help create awareness around diversity and inclusion? Are you an LGBTQ ally interested in helping with diversity and inclusion efforts? Send us a note at chenected@aiche.org with the subject "Diversity and Inclusion."
Show your support with a gift.