In this episode, we are joined by Dr. Shanta Zimmer, associate dean for diversity and inclusion at the University of Colorado School of Medicine. Dr. Zimmer talks about how the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted racial disparities and health care inequities in severity of illness and the role the health care system ultimately plays in systemically-addressing social determinants of health. She also speaks on how the university is working toward inclusive excellence and removing barriers that prevent the best and brightest from entering medical education. COPIC has supported diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) scholarships for medical students and purchased simulation equipment for medical education, including a set of diverse mannequins to better represent patients and students.