PLAN TO ENHANCE DIVERSITY: PROJECT SUMMARY Georgetown Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center’s (LCCC) Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Plan aims to evaluate, develop, and implement strategies to enhance and promote equitable participation, inclusion, and leadership of individuals from backgrounds underrepresented in cancer research. The overall vision of the LCCC DEI Plan is to create and sustain diversity within a culture of equity and inclusive excellence. LCCC will implement and evaluate strategies to (1) increase diversity of trainees, Members, and the research workforce, (2) enhance equitable participation, and (3) promote inclusion and leadership by individuals from backgrounds underrepresented in research. LCCC DEI builds on a strong history of attention to social justice and diversity, equity, and inclusion within Georgetown University (GU) and has aligned the DEI specific aims with values held across the Consortium. Guided by The Foundational Principles of Inclusive Excellence framework from the Association of American Medical Colleges, the LCCC DEI goals will be accomplished through three specific aims. Aim 1: Collect and evaluate diversity metrics and improve infrastructure to recruit, retain, and track trainees and Members from groups underrepresented in science and cancer research. DEI has established and will continue to track metrics and support recruitment of diverse Members and trainees with ongoing input from the LCCC DEI Advisory Council. The DEI Office will collaborate closely with the Cancer Research Training and Education Coordination (CRTEC) Office for tracking metrics, including demographics (gender, race, ethnicity, ability), among trainees and Members participating in cancer research. DEI has reviewed and implemented best practices and policies for recruitment and equity in the hiring of women and individuals underrepresented in cancer research. Aim 2: Foster a culture of inclusion and active participation in cancer research for women and individuals from groups underrepresented in research to retain talent and advance professional careers for all. Activities at the undergraduate and graduate levels will be conducted in collaboration with CRTEC, Community Outreach and Engagement (COE), GU, MedStar Health, and John Theurer Cancer Center/Hackensack Meridian Health (JTCC/HMH) through fellowship programs focused on cancer research. Among Members, activities will support professional development and foster a sense of inclusion through peer groups, pilot research support, and seed funding focused on diversity, equity, and anti-racism. DEI will recognize efforts through annual awards for Members, staff, and students. Aim 3: Support intentional leadership development and advancement by women and individuals underrepresented in research. LCCC’s DEI will identify and provide opportunities that promote leadership development, including leadership training and professional coaching open to LCCC Members across rank and track. DEI...