Gender and Diversity Empowerment Committee Unites MUNER Partners

The Gender and Diversity Empowerment Committee (GDEC) is an initiative by MUNER – the Motor Valley University of Emilia-Romagna – in collaboration with its founding partners, universities, and regular members. Formally established during the MUNER Board meeting on December 5, 2023, and launched in February 2024, this Committee is dedicated to addressing gender issues in automotive and engineering education.

Led by Professor Elena Bassoli (MUNER and Unimore) as Coordinator and Professor Vittorio Ravaglioli (MUNER and Unibo) as Vice Coordinator, the GDEC engages all partner companies and universities in promoting gender balance, equal opportunities, workforce inclusion, and a culture of respect and equity.

 

 

Our Mission

The GDEC aims to:

  • Promote gender balance, equal opportunities, and inclusion within MUNER and its partner companies.

  • Develop training and awareness programs for students and faculty on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI).

  • Collaborate with industry partners to share best practices and implement corporate DEI strategies.

  • Measure impact through events, student engagement, and partnerships with tangible outcomes.

Key Initiatives

MUNER DRIVES CHANGE

MUNER DRIVES CHANGE is the flagship initiative of the Gender and Diversity Empowerment Committee, designed to foster a culture of inclusion, equity, and diversity across the MUNER community. Since its launch on December 6, 2024, the program has engaged both students and faculty in a series of interactive learning experiences aimed at raising awareness on gender inclusivity and professional inclusion skills within STEM and automotive education.

First Cycle (Dec 2024 – Oct 2025)
The inaugural cycle began with a kick-off event, “The Journey Begins: Inclusive Perspectives in STEM fields”, led by philosopher and educator Lorenzo Gasparrini, open to both students and faculty.
Following this, the program split into two tailored paths:

  • Faculty Path: Three dedicated workshops explored gender stereotypes, inclusive language, and unbiased feedback techniques, helping educators integrate inclusive practices in teaching.

  • Students Path: Three sessions focused on understanding international milestones like International Women’s Day, analyzing gender representation in automotive visual culture, and developing professional inclusion skills.

The first cycle concluded with a joint session for students and faculty at the Teatro d’Impresa Pericle APS, reinforcing the program’s key learnings and fostering a shared community of practice.

Second Cycle (Nov – Dec 2025)
The second cycle extended participation to the entire MUNER community and included high-impact lectures and HR round tables with industry partners. Highlights included:

  • Gender stereotypes in automotive visual culture with Prof. Pasquale Fameli and career-focused HR round tables with Pirelli and Dallara.

  • “Gender Alliances in the Fight Against Injustice” with gender studies expert Irene Facheris.

  • “From Values to Culture: DE&I as a Driver of Business and Social Innovation” with Antonella Gioia from Automobili Lamborghini, accompanied by discussions on DE&I and soft skills.

Through MUNER DRIVES CHANGE, the committee continues to empower students and faculty alike, building awareness, challenging stereotypes, and promoting actionable strategies to foster an inclusive academic and professional environment.

Women in Transport Summer School

A specialized summer program promoting female participation in STEM and automotive education, featuring workshops, company visits, and mentorship from leading industry experts.


Participation in the international “Women in Motorcycling” campaign

Highlighting the personal stories of trailblazing women in motorcycling to inspire future generations.


F1 Scholarships

Supporting students in Advanced Automotive Engineering who face physical, social, or economic challenges, come from economically disadvantaged countries, or are underrepresented in engineering programs.


Eco-Certification Scholarships

Designed to strengthen and incentivize the presence of women in STEM and Advanced Automotive Engineering disciplines.


Collaboration with WOW – Women Motor

For the past four years, MUNER has partnered with and endorsed this event, organized by the Municipality of Imola and the Autodromo di Imola, to highlight women’s achievements and inspire future leaders in the automotive and motorsport sectors.

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