The Inclusive Office of Science: A Reflection on Asmeret Berhe’s Legacy and the Future of Diversity in Science

As the Director of Science, I am proud to have worked tirelessly to make our programs, workforce, and processes more inclusive, accessible, and equitable than ever before. While there is still progress to be made, I am grateful for the hard work we have put into evaluating our culture and processes and making necessary changes.

What sets us apart from other organizations is not just the new initiatives we have introduced – RENEW, FAIR, and PIER plans – but also the dedication of individuals across the office who are actively engaging with communities through office hours, site visits, and conference engagements. This demonstrates our commitment to ensuring that the federal resources we manage serve the public equitably.

As I move on from my position, my hope is that the Office of Science will continue to be a place where everyone feels a sense of belonging and purpose, regardless of their role in enabling science. I believe that in a world facing climate change, it is crucial that the office sets an example by operating sustainably. It is my hope that the Office of Science and DOE will continue to champion inclusivity and diversity in the scientific community.

Working alongside such dedicated colleagues has been an honor for me as Director of Science. Thank you for making these past few years so meaningful. Sincerely, Asmeret Asefaw Berhe