We are a multidisciplinary and highly collaborative community of scholars who conduct and translate research focused on sexual and reproductive health, with particular attention to marginalized populations. We offer expertise in person-centered research, including health services and clinical research; community-based participatory research; epidemiology; digital health solutions; legal, ethical, and policy analysis; social science; and implementation science. CONVERGE also works closely with community, government, and advocacy organizations to shape research agendas, ensure polyvocality, and enhance impact.
Guiding Principles
Our work strives to advance sexual and reproductive health equity (SRHE). SRHE reflects a state in which all people have what they need to attain their highest level of sexual and reproductive health, including self-determining and achieving their reproductive goals.* We seek to understand and attend to the effects of identity, class, as well as structures and systems that negatively or positively impact the sexual and reproductive health of diverse individuals and communities to move towards our vision of SRHE and wellbeing for all. We also seek to incorporate principles of equity and justice in our internal programming and organizational policies.
Our work is also grounded in or embraces a person-centered framework in which each person, regardless of their identity or background, deserves dignity and respect while interacting with the healthcare system and is able to exercise bodily and reproductive autonomy to make health decisions that are best for them in their unique context.
Mission
Our mission is to conduct innovative research that advances sexual and reproductive health equity by changing culture and informing clinical practice and policy.
Vision
We envision a world where there is optimal and equitable health and wellbeing across the life course for all.
*definition adapted from: https://www.contraceptionaccess.org/sexual-and-reproductive-health-equity
