Bernett Williams, Akron Children’s chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer, speaks to the attendees of the opening event.
Our new Unity Center on the third floor of Akron Children’s Hospital embodies our commitment to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.
“Having this physical space demonstrates the importance we place on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as an organization. That is huge and sends an important message to the community,” said Bernett Williams, chief diversity, equity and inclusion officer and vice president of community initiatives. “The highly visible location is also important. It speaks to the value we place on DEI that this center is in a main corridor on the third floor, where it is easily accessible and not tucked away.”
Bernett noted that while the Unity Center includes workspace for the DEI team, it belongs to all of our patients, visitors, providers, employees and volunteers.
“We want it to be a welcoming place that everyone knows and a safe space where people can bring their whole self,” she said.
Jennifer Ross, director of diversity, equity and inclusion, said the Unity Center provides an opportunity to expand our knowledge, thinking and understanding.
“Information is power, and this provides a way to use knowledge for good as we celebrate and understand our differences. Increasing our intercultural competencies will make us better colleagues and co-workers,” Jennifer said.
“We are fortunate at Akron Children’s to have a culture of acceptance and inclusion,” said Chris Gessner, Akron Children’s CEO. “Our staff, our patients and their families, all reflect a diversity of backgrounds and life experiences. The concept of DEI is fundamental to our mission of improving child health and is embodied in our three promises. The Unity Center helps bring this concept to life in a very visible way!”
Cleveland artist Van Monroe created a mural displayed in the Unity Center.
The space was designed to be both open and comfortable with a glass exterior that encourages people to come inside. Vibrant colors used in the furnishings, finishes and inclusive artwork create an energizing and uplifting environment. The centerpiece of the art is a commissioned mural by Cleveland-based artist Van Taylor Monroe. The artist is well known for the customized sneakers he designed for President Barack Obama that are on display in the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. The center’s artwork also includes a unity wall with the word “unity” translated into several languages.
“In coming up with a name for the center, the word ‘unity’ emerged as a common theme. It also translates well in other languages,” said Bernett.
A conference room that divides the Unity Center and the adjacent, newly constructed Family Resource Center is shared space that may be used for training sessions, events, meetings or private conversations. The flexible space has flat screen monitors for training and presentations.
Bernett and Jennifer envision that our Employee Resource Groups will use space in the Unity Center for meetings. The center could also be the site for Circle Conversations and small in-person or hybrid DEI cultural events. In addition, there is a small resource library where current DEI resources can be shared among employees and volunteers.
“Our emphasis is on training and education to make sure we are all better equipped to address challenges and move in a way that aligns with our values,” said Jennifer. “Our DEI team members are the thought partners, but diversity, equity and inclusion are the responsibilities of us all.”
The Unity Center will serve as a welcoming space for employees, volunteers, patient families, and the community.
