Core Values

Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

Our work is centered around achieving justice for communities that have endeared the long-term impact of engineered systems or public sector water services that are not equitably provisioned. We recognize the value of diverse backgrounds and identities in framing our work, and invoke the Framework for Partnership to ensure that our methods are inclusive, equitable, and just.  As a group, we are all learners with unique identities who come from distinct backgrounds. This diversity is our strength. We aspire to create an inclusive environment that listens, celebrates, and openly values our diverse views, backgrounds, and ideas.   

Respect, Collegiality, and Teamwork

We are a collection of individuals working toward common goals. We are committed to the practices of active listening, assistance, and support, engaged communication, constructive input, and acceptance across differences. Failure is an active part of learning, and we value failures without judgement just as we celebrate successes. 

Academic Integrity.

We value the knowledge collective and give credit to others openly and fairly. We do not fabricate data or its interpretation. We value the principles of information transparency and open access. We acknowledge and invite all collaborators to participate actively in our work, including those in the communities where we work. We abide by the ethical canons of relevant professional associations. 

Safety, and Sustainability, and Wellbeing

We are committed to creating a safe work environment for ourselves and those we work with.  At all times, we will abide by safety rules established in our laboratory and will schedule safety checks into daily activities. We will use sustainable practices and green chemistry approaches wherever possible to reduce our footprint on the environment. We also support all member’s health and wellbeing, which are also linked to our value of safe and sustainable lab practices. 

Innovation 

We aspire to conduct research and learning activities that are at the forefront of environmental engineering. Because innovation requires taking risks, we will provide space and support for taking risks that also recognize the need to achieve goals. We will provide platforms to openly discuss and debate ideas that are part of the innovation process.   

Framework for Partnership

We will work within the framework set forth by our Framework for Partnerships. 

Professional Development

We are committed to participating in activities that develop professional skills including (but are not limited to): research methods; writing; critical thinking and analysis; inclusive teaching; laboratory methods; and effective communication. Furthermore, we value and will engage in activities that expand our professional networks.  Professional development is a key activity of both academic advising and peer mentoring.