The "Core" of the Institute

Dictionary.com provides 19 (yes nineteen) definitions of the word "core."  One of them is particularly relevant to the Institute:   Definition no. 2 (noun) is "the innermost, essential, or central part of anything.  Our core values were developed during last year's strategic planning process as statements about our essential and central character as a community.  I try to use these values as a roadmap for myself and for the Institute.  I find them to be particularly useful during times of conflict or confusion.  The core values are fairly lofty and are somewhat non specific.  They provide general direction, but allow for plenty of  interpretation.  They don't tell us "how" we should get things done or "how" we should make things work well.  They provide essential guidance on matters of importance and when things go wrong, they provide important points for reflection and change.   I would advise that in our interactions with students, the community, and with each other we talk about and think about our core values.  The listing of our core values is as follows:

• The highest standards of professional, academic, and scientific excellence, ethical conduct, integrity, and personal responsibility
• An inclusive and equitable environment that is respectful of diversity in its broadest meaning
• Mutual trust and collegiality in our relationships with each other and those we serve in health care and the community
• Productive partnerships among faculty, staff, and students that support learning and work and that allow for interprofessional and global collaboration
• A connected and engaged learning community where students fulfill a passion for lifelong learning, and become graduates of choice for employers
• An environment that embraces and rewards inquiry, ingenuity, innovation, resourcefulness, and continuous learning
• A rewarding work environment to ensure we are an “employer of choice”
• Accountability for our work and for prudent, efficient stewardship of our resources