The first in-person event for the new Small, Specialist and Research Institute (SSRI) Equalities Network is set to take place on 26 June and two free tickets are available to SSRI Advance HE members.
Hosted by Global Banking School in London, the SSRI Equalities Network Conference 2024 offers delegates the opportunity to learn more about holistic approaches to EDI, diversifying the Board and case studies from network members on good EDI practice within their institutions.
Karen Taylor, Head of Membership (Tertiary) at Advance HE, said,
“We have a large number of small and specialist institutions, research institutes and college-based HE providers in Advance HE membership, with a considerable and growing interest in, and commitment to, equality, diversity and inclusion work.
“Staff with responsibility for EDI at these alternative HE institutions face similar challenges. This network creates an opportunity to form a mutually supportive space to share practice, collaborate and develop as a collective group to maximise the impact of allocated resources.
“I am delighted at the way the network has developed and I encourage members of the network to take advantage of the free tickets offer.”
Wellcome Sanger Institute
Leading this initiative in partnership with Advance HE is Cybele Fernandes, EDI Manager for the Wellcome Sanger Institute and first chair of the network.
She said, “We are delighted to be working with the Advance HE network to promote, develop and share best practices in equality, diversity and inclusion.
“The Wellcome Sanger Institute is proud to convene the first SSRI Equalities Conference to provide a collaborative space for research institutes and higher education colleges to engage with thought leaders and share innovative ideas. We are committed to fostering a supportive, equitable and empowering research environment where all can thrive and we look forward to seeing you at the Conference in June.”
Global Banking School
Dr Matthew Carlile, Dean of Education at Global Banking School, said,
“Our involvement in the network is key to our core work with students whose average age is 37; who are almost all parents or carers and working whilst they study, and who speak over 80 languages.
“The network is a space to share and develop ideas, and for mutual support between organisations equally passionate about improving access and participation for all of our students.
“We are thrilled to be hosting the conference this year, as it really raises the profile of EDI for our staff, students and partner institutions and will be such a great way to make even more connections with colleagues across the UK.”