MCPHS Libraries Receive 2024 LEAD Award for Outstanding Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion

The University's libraries were recognized for stand-out programming in research, technology, accessibility, and more.

Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences (MCPHS) Libraries was honored for its outstanding commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), earning a 2024 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) Award from "Insight Into Diversity" magazine.

MCPHS was one of 56 institutions to receive the LEAD award and will be showcased in the March 2024 issue of the magazine. The award recognizes MCPHS Libraries programs and initiatives across all three campuses in research, technology, accessibility, exhibitions, and community outreach.

The University has three libraries: Henrietta DeBenedictis Library in Boston, the Blais Family Library in Worcester, and the Manchester Campus Library.

MCPHS Libraries actively contributes to the University's DEI efforts and events, including co-sponsoring the inaugural Juneteenth creative works contest, coordinating book club discussions featuring titles that address racial disparities in health care, and curating a collection of materials for "Building Collections, Building Understanding," an initiative that provides resources by and about underrepresented communities.

The mission of MCPHS Libraries is to support the educational needs of students, faculty, staff, alumni, and guests. Its staff provides various services to advance teaching, learning, practice, scholarship, and research across the University.

Richard Kaplan, Dean of Library and Learning Resources and Director of Libraries, gives credit to every member of the MCPHS Libraries team for contributing to DEI efforts. "We are dedicated to creating an inclusive academic environment and fostering accessible learning experiences for students, staff, faculty, and the broader community. This award recognizes our collective efforts, which are grounded in the University's mission to create a healthier, more equitable world for all."

Chief Inclusion Officer Clara Reynolds commends the library staff for their commitment and dedication to creating an inclusive academic and working environment. "Diverse, equitable, and inclusive excellence involves working together as a team to create positive change. Through their DEI collaborations across the campuses, programming, outreach, and availability, our library staff has demonstrated their commitment to building an inclusive Community, and it's an honor to see them recognized."

"Insight Into Diversity" is the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education.

"We are proud to honor these college and university libraries as role models for other institutions of higher education," said Lenore Pearstein, the magazine's owner and publisher.