Greetings GW Engineering Community,
During the month of February, we have honored, commemorated, and celebrated the achievements that Black Americans have made to improve the lives of people around the world.
As an engineer and the Dean of a school that creates knowledge and educates leaders, I understand the importance of innovation. I also understand that if diversity of thought, perspective, and lived experience do not exist at the inception of innovation – then we often miss out on creative solutions and the opportunity to impact countless members of our communities.
I’m reminded of a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” Here at GW Engineering, we are committed to improving access and inclusion for all of our students. Our goal is to make sure that every student feels welcomed and supported. We need all perspectives and voices around the table as we innovate solutions for the grand challenges we face as a society.
This month and every month, we honor the countless Black Americans who are a part of the fabric of this country, who helped build this country over generations, even as it refused to acknowledge their contributions, and whose drive and achievements continue to make our society better. We all have a responsibility as members of this community to learn about and appreciate the history that has led us here today.
As our celebration of Black History Month comes to a close, let’s also reflect on how far we have come as a nation, but also how much work remains ahead of us as we continue the path towards justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion for all people.
Best,
John Lach
Dean
GW Engineering