Our group works to foster an environment that is both inclusive and supportive of people of all backgrounds, including those from groups that are underrepresented in ecology or STEM fields at large.   In doing so, we are committed to fostering diversity, equity and inclusive excellence by consciously considering ways to improve approaches in teaching, research, and service.  Importantly, we strive to have our research agenda be informed and shaped by diverse (especially local fishing and Indigenous communities) perspectives, objectives, and ways of knowing in conservation and natural resource management.

Active efforts of bolstering diversity, equity, and inclusion include: 1) promoting diverse ways of knowing, learning, and approaching problems in research and teaching, 2) actively seeking individuals from diverse groups and promoting awareness of our program to a broader audience, 3) providing safe working environments as well as confidential and anonymous reporting for students and post-doctoral researchers with concerns, 4) promoting research, mentoring and leadership opportunities to multiple parties.  Both Nate Spindel and Dan Okamoto serve on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee for FSU Biological Science and are actively working to reform graduate recruitment practices and how to improve undergraduate research experiences in the department.

FSU and the Department of Biological Science provide numerous resources for traditionally underrepresented groups and we are currently compiling a list of these.   Check back soon!