Core Values
The Cavagnero group operates on the belief that diversity is the source of our strength. We are committed to recruiting, retaining and supporting underrepresented students from diverse backgrounds. The ability for our lab to solve problems and better our research efforts is enhanced by creating an environment where students feel safe and valued for sharing their unique experiences. We believe that diversity and inclusion make us better scientists, colleagues, and people.
As a group we:
- Hold monthly discussions on diversity, equity and inclusion for the first part of our group meetings. Topics and resources for discussion are chosen by a different student each month.
- Formed and circulated a document that contains information and resources surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion.
- Support involvement in CHOPS, Catalyst and other outreach programs throughout UW-Madison.
- Actively encourage members to seek out opportunities in which they can foster diversity, equity and inclusion in their personal and professional lives.
- Require that all group members (and staff researchers) attend the Bystander Intervention Training presented by UW-Madison.
- Encourage graduate students and staff researchers to take an active role in mentoring undergraduate students from all backgrounds.
As a mentor I:
- Take an active role in mentoring and supporting underrepresented scientists, including graduate and undergraduate students from diverse backgrounds.
- Have organized Scientific Sessions on Cutting Edge Themes in Biophysical Research at the SACNAS National Conference (every year, from 2015 to present), encouraging the participation of Chicanos and American Indians in scientific biological research. This year’s SACNAS scientific session organized by Silvia focused on cutting-edge advances in Protein Design.
- Lectured at the Summer School for Underrepresented Students (Univ. North Carolina, Chapel Hills)
- Participated as a recruiter, mentor, poster judge and lecturer in the SACNAS National Conference, encouraging the participation of Chicanos and Native Americans in scientific research (2010-present).
- Co-organized the 3rd USA-Mexico International Workshop on Protein Folding and Dynamics (2013).
- Was the Chair of the UW-Madison Diversity Committee from 2010-2016.
- Was the Co-founder, co-organizer, co-fund raiser and active participant of CHOPS (Chemistry OPportunitieS).
- Attended Diversity and Mentoring CMB workshops in 2016, 2017 and 2019.
- Was an active participant in the 8-hour Reseach Mentor Training organized by Cheri Barta and AJ Boydston in October 2020.
- Participated in Chemistry Department Diversity Workshops in 2021.
- Am actively involved in the recruiting of underrepresented students and faculty across the UW-Madison campus.