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Introducing Prof Leslie Gutman, the New Vice Dean (EDI)!
By b.isibor, on 28 October 2024
We spoke with Professor Leslie Gutman, the newly appointed Vice Dean (EDI), to explore her experiences, vision for the future, and a glimpse into her life beyond UCL. Take a look at what Leslie had to say:
- Tell us a bit about you, who is Professor Leslie Gutman?
Hmm, this question is quite philosophical! I am a wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend. I am a spiritual person, nature lover, bookworm and amateur baker.
2. What working achievement or initiative are you most proud of?
I am grateful to have been the Faculty Lead of the BAME Awarding Gap Project when the FBS awarding gap reduced from 14.6% to .5%.
3. What is your overarching vision for EDI in the Faculty of Brain Sciences?
My overarching vision is that our students and staff are equally valued, included, recognised, awarded, promoted and supported.
- How will you work with other Institutes and Divisions’ to progress EDI?
I enjoy meeting with others who are enthusiastic about EDI in our faculty (there are many!) and we are working together to share good practices throughout FBS. Avili Feese, the FBS EDI manager, is the co-founder of the UCL EDI Community of Practice, which can help us to share and utilise good practices more widely across UCL. I’m looking forward to attending the CoP Welcome Event on 6 November, and would like to encourage others to join too!
- Do you have any EDI initiatives or projects in mind?
Over the next two years, we plan to actively beacon our existing EDI work, engaging with colleagues both within and beyond the faculty to enhance collaboration. Additionally, we will prioritise reducing inequalities for students by understanding and addressing awarding gaps for postgraduate taught students, which is an area that we have not previously examined in FBS, and involving students in the co-production of FBS EDI initiatives. Beyond that, we would like to identify ways to support women and staff from ethnically minoritised backgrounds for promotion.
6. If you could change one thing about the Faculty using a magic wand, what would it be?
I would magically create an office space that connects all of the FBS, with natural light, fresh air, plants, meeting/group areas, access to outdoor space and free coffee/tea!
7. What is your favourite meal?
Chicken soup with kneidel, roast chicken and roast potatoes, followed by hot chocolate cake.
8. Where in the world would you like to visit that you haven’t been to yet?
I’m from Texas and I grew up going to beautiful Mexico on holiday. I’d love to go back now as an adult with my husband and family.
9. What is something about you that would surprise people to know?
It always seems to surprise people that I have 5 children (probably because the work/life balance in academia is challenging) — three of which are young teens and two who are young adults. I also have a three year old grandson, who is my little treasure.
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