The Biological Sciences DEI Committee consists of faculty and staff committed to fostering an inclusive environment that celebrates diversity. Contact information is listed below. You are welcomed to reach out to any of the committee members with suggestions or comments.
Members
Margaret Bell - Chair
Both academic research and stories from lived experiences make it clear that inequities built into our social structures have negative impacts on well-being, from an organismal to a molecular level. I am excited to do work supporting diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and justice because our ability to solve social challenges and do meaningful science are improved when we have multiple perspectives at the table. I want to support students as they develop into future colleagues and citizens that are prepared to continue work to make education, science, and our world a better place to live. Email: margaret.bell@depaul.edu
Windsor Aguirre
As a Latino son of immigrants from Ecuador and first-generation college student, I have seen firsthand how education can empower upward mobility. I also benefited directly from DEI programs as a graduate student, so I understand how important these types of programs can be for fostering inclusion. Now that I am a professor and member of the Biology Department’s DEI Committee, I hope to give back by helping create an environment that celebrates diversity in all its forms and supports students so they can achieve their full potential. Email: waguirre@depaul.edu
Jason Bystriansky
As a member of the Biology Department’s DEI Committee I am committed to developing a fair and just environment where all of our students can thrive and achieve their goals. I was a first generation university student and struggled to learn how to succeed academically. I was lucky to have the support of a few caring professors along the way who gave me opportunities and good advice. I want to provide that to my students. Too many students face challenges out of their control, many due to the inequities of our society. I joined the Biology Department’s DEI Committee to help better educate myself on these issues and provide me the opportunity to work and fight to make things better for everyone. Email: jbystria@depaul.edu
Andrew Conith
I originally hail from the United Kingdom, born and raised in a manufacturing town in the north of England. Higher education provided an opportunity for upward mobility, and I became the first member of my family to attend university. I personally benefited from numerous DEI programs at my previous institutions, and this assistance motivated me to pursue opportunities in academia that help achieve similar goals and expand educational access to all. As a result, I have been active in several committees aimed at promoting DEI programs that will ultimately improve the academic achievements of students and increase the capacity for scientific inquiry. Email: aconith@depaul.edu
Sarah Finck
As the academic advisor for the biology department, I feel it is important to adapt my advising style into ways that best fit each student. Actively participating in and implementing DEI initiatives that impact biology staff and students can only contribute positively to becoming a better advocate and advisor for our students. It is my hope that promoting a welcoming environment that truly sees and respects the backgrounds of all students will enhance their learning outcomes so they can be successful both in and outside the classroom. Email: Sfinck@depaul.edu
Tim Sparkes
As a first-generation student growing up in South Wales (UK), I struggled with the challenges of navigating the education system alone. Often, I did not know who to ask for advice or even how to ask the questions in the first place. I was fortunate in that I encountered a few kind hearts on my journey who helped guide me. Throughout my professional career, I have always been driven to provide a similar type of support for students whenever and wherever it is needed. Membership on the DEI committee provides me with opportunities to continue this goal while also becoming more educated on the types of challenges our students face and the diverse approaches that can be adopted to improve the experiences for all involved.
Email: tsparkes@depaul.edu