Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging
As a researcher, a mentor, and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Mike is dedicated to fighting for diversity, equitability, inclusion and belonging. Race, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, language, abilities/disabilities, sexual orientation, gender identity, political affiliation, and socioeconomic status should not be barriers to the STEM community or grounds for discrimination. As such, the Piacentino lab welcomes people and viewpoints from diverse backgrounds. We stand with individuals from under-represented backgrounds and amplify their voices. Only when everyone feels a sense of belonging and support from their community can our scientific and human endeavors reach their peak ingenuity and excellence.
Poster and commitment pledge courtesy of Sammy Katta.
Mentoring Philosophy
As a mentor, Mike aims to build a sense of belonging amongst trainees from diverse backgrounds and experiences, practice clear and direct communication strategies, and help mentees identify their personal and professional goals and how to achieve them. Mike works to communicate clear expectations, engage in active listening, and adopt individualized training plans that leave each mentee with a sense of support and empowerment to ask ambitious questions and tackle challenging research projects.