Hi, Vanessa Nazario from Sunny South Florida - DEI Director at Memorial Healthcare System

Holt Public Schools in Michigan is looking to hire a DEI Officer

Good morning friends! Kelsey here. I manage DEI/L&D programs at a startup in Santa Barbara, CA. Always happy to connect https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseybardfield/

Hello! Karen Dahms from Jennifer Brown. Signing in from sunny and warm NJ!

https://urldefense.com/v3/__https:/affirmativeaction-jobs.careerwebsite.com/job/diversity-equity-inclusion-program-coordinator/56106535/__;!!LqvVzw!CXwcAXO7hsThTdfz9IBNhO8iandigNgPrgDNrN5FD8YLaGt-HfdBjOgAu-PWIg$

Good morning. Zooming in from Hochotown, OK - on a mini-cation with the family for Spring Break! https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniekdement/

Hello. I am from Cape Town and I am in love with DEI, but my background is International Business/ Sales and I am ready for my new job in DEI. Here is my LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/frances-regina

Hi all! Joining from Richmond, VA. I'm a D&I Coordinator for a law firm here. Would love to connect! https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-smucker-she-her-396a6387/

Good morning

The Washtenaw County Sheriff Office in Michigan is looking to hire a DEI Director.

Hi JBC Community Call Fam! Joining from Michigan. I'm a DEI Coordinator from a mid-size law firm. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandice-mcallister/

Hey all, it’s Andrea from very sunny NJ. And I am looking for a position.

Hi from sunny south florida

Hi all, Brendan Geaney (he/him/his) from Apellis Pharmaceuticals. I work in Talent Acquisition. Looking to connect with others as we build out our DEI Committee

Hi my name is Melanie Kahrs and I work for an RIA as a financial planner in Northern Virginia called Campbell Wealth. Love these calls! Looking to glean information on how to continue to move the needle in the right direction in our country and at my firm.

Good afternoon from lovely Long Island. I am on the Indigenous land of the Massapequas. Andrea Payne, DEI Strategist looking for F/T opportunities in the greater NYC area. Let’s connect on LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreatpayne/

Hello, I am Roma Brodecki from the Washington, DC area. Looking for work in the DEI space. www.linkedin.com/in/romasbrodecki

Two of my favorites Brian McCormack and Natasha Porizkova!!!!

Erica Fuhr (she/her) from the Toronto area in Canada. DEI practitioner for a little over 10 years, within the aviation industry

Hi Everyone,

Hi everyone! JD (he/him) DEI consultant, looking to connect with others and looking forward to hearing Andre who’s a wonderful colleague! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdvawi/

I'm Anne Brown, happy to be here from Michigan.

You know you’re one of my favorites too, Rachel!!

I am so excited!

Good Morning! Turning in from Brooklyn, NY! I’m the D&I Task Force leader at my company, and I’d love to connect with all of you: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-thrash-69169b86/

Hello from the Toronto (Canada) area. I'm a leadership consultant using DEI & process improvement to improve employee engagement. Happy to connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetzoemitchell

Hi folks. Sven here. Involved with some community orgs in Poughkeepsie NY. Interested in the space, and getting a cert through Northwestern.

Hello! Sabrina Venegas from Chicago. Happy to connect:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrina-venegas-5135903/

Hi Everyone, I am Denis from Philadelphia - I am a Director DEI for a School transitioning soon to Director DEI & Employee Engagement with a company here in Philly.

Hello all!

Good afternoon and hello! Kadiyah Lodge, Business Services in Poughkeepsie, NY. Listening and learning about DEI work!

Hi everyone!

Hi! My name is Casey Spurgeon and I am zooming in from San Diego. I am currently the Director of Talent Partnerships at Make School however looking to transition to a more DEI role. Would love to connect with you all and continue to make positive change!https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-spurgeon-bui-83069212a/

Hello! So happy to be here with you fine people! Coming from Calgary, Canada, I’m a Principal Consultant at JONES, which is based in San Diego… https://jonesinclusive.com/. Would love to connect! https://www.linkedin.com/in/aishastaylor/

I love this Community

My name is Rachel Munyaradzi Website: www.rachelrudo.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/rachel-r-munyaradziEmail: rachelrudo@gmail.com

Hello from Canada!

Morning all! Ken here from Los Angeles! Great to see you all here.

Hi Everyone, Brett Brewster here from Los Angeles :) I’m head of partnerships for a platform called MixR (www.mixr.net) MixR allows employees to create, manage and run their own self-interests groups. It also allows existing ERG’s, D&I and affinity groups a place to live and thrive. I’d love to connect and help in anyway I can with everyones journey. Thanks!

Hello! I am from the DC area

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brettbrewster/

Hello, Patricia Exec Director DEI space, from Boston, high 70s today. Always look forward to the Thursday calls. Wonderful and powerful space

Hello from Michigan. Starting leading our DEI efforts mid-last year so always looking to learn more! https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmbaginski/

Hello! This is my first call and I'm excited to be here. I'm looking for a role in DE&I https://www.linkedin.com/in/anettepadilla123/

Tosin Abiodun joining from Portland, Oregon.

Hi Madeline here. Community aspect of this call is truly a unique feature. I’m an Advocate and Advisor bringing DEI considerations to the forefront in several initiatives. http://linkedin.com/in/madeline-bayliss. Philadelphia area

Morgan Williams, recruiter with Patagonia building diverse teams. Always love to connect with this group. https://www.linkedin.com/in/itrecruitersdc/

Good morning from Southern California, I’m a cross-cultural and diversity trainer https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreabreidenbach/

Hello all…zooming in from Delray Beach- consulting in DEI and seeking a full time role https://linkedin.com/in/marnie-omanoff… look forward to connecting

Ann Craig from Disability Network of Mid-Michigan. Community Connections Liaison for the organization and happy to be here!

Mary Jung Director Community Impact at HonorHealth in Scottsdale, AZ

we can hear you

Tiffany Chaney, Chief Diversity Officer, Baptist Health, Montgomery, AL https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanycchaney/

http://linkedin.com/in/pamela-shainhouse-she-her-4746a29 . Hello everyone. I am in Toronto Canada, I specialize in the fashion marketplace, but lately I am working in all areas of DEI! I have been asked by a community of individuals in the high autism spectrum. They are looking for positions. If anyone has some opportunities please get in touch with me at pamela@theshainhousegroup.com.

Hello! I’m Caroline Cowan currently splitting time between Louisville and Lexington, KY. I’m an independent consultant in DEI, Organizational Development and Leadership Development. Happy to connect with folks here! https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinecowan/

Hi – Karen Cornwell – Decades in Engineering and now an Author a Consultant to help Companies become more Gender Savvy. My book: You Can’t Fix What You Can’t See: An Eye-Opening Toolkit to Cultivating Gender Harmony in Business (just released my Audiobook – for easy listening). Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenfcornwell/Also, I have a podcast and am looking for companies that are doing great things for their women (and everyone!) that would like to share what they’ve done! You can check it out at: https://www.youcantfixwhatyoucantsee.com/podcast

Hi All! Michelle Campbell calling in from North Carolina. I currently work in Graduate Communications and Intercultural Programs at Duke University, but I’m transitioning out of that role, and I’ve started my new role as a Program Manager for Post Graduate and Faculty Initiatives at University of Michigan at the Center for Engineering Diversity and Outreach. Busy time, but happy to connect! https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-campbell-ph-d-7900b088/

Good Morning, Bob Jones joining from chilly Burlington, IA

Wendy Ryan (she/her) CEO of Kadabra (www.wearekadabra.com) here. Happy to connect with everyone https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendyryankadabra/. Also wanted to recommend the Women of Color Connecting 2021 Summit happening over 3 weeks starting TODAY! I am on the planning committee and will be speaking as a panelist on allyship from 4:30 - 5:30 EST this afternoon. Register at: www.woccon.org/woccon2021.

Happy Thursday community. Hope you all are well. Always glad to be here

Hi all! Agatha Agbanobi, DEI Consultant and Trainer, here. https://www.linkedin.com/in/agathaagbanobi/

Hi, I am Starr Roberts in Atlanta Georgia. I co-chair BIPOC Leadership Network a EBRG for Thrivent. https://www.linkedin.com/in/starr-tenille-roberts-she-her-hers-91555b9a/

Good morning everyone, here’s to a great day!

Dr. Theresa Horne working from Savannah, GA area.

If you’re looking for a DEI student-facing position in higher ed, my new team at University of Michigan is also hiring a Program Manager for Student Support and Development: https://careers.umich.edu/job_detail/195167/program_manager_for_student_support_and_development

Sergio from Deloitte in Chicago :)

Hello everyone! Welcome :)

Hello from Denver, CO: I teach Leading Diverse and Inclusive organizations at Regis Univ. I consult & continue to learn re the special issues of diversifying academic spaces. www.linkedin.com/in/liladockenbauman

Hi, everyone! Ramona Gupta, happy, as always, to be here from Chicago. I have 15+ years DEI experience in community organizations and higher ed. Looking to shift to a corporate DEI role. Love connecting and learning with all of you! https://linkedin.com/in/ramonagupta

Job at MHS: https://careers.mhs.net/job/12301487/diversity-equity-inclusion-program-coordinator-ft-days-mhs-organizational-dev-miramar-fl/

Thank you for the nudge. Learning to ignore suppressive larger cultural messages we've learned!

Hello all, my name is Loris (he/him), I’m queer, passionate about D&I and like to engage people with me on this journey. I am French and live in The Netherlands, where I work for a global FMCG company in the world of coffee (Jacobs Douwe Egberts). I’m currently trying as a side project to accelerate D&I within my workplace and would love to eventually become a D&I practitioner. My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loris-vivien-935ba072

Hi everyone, this is Andy Swindler in Chicago (Potawatomi land). He/him. Co-Founder of FeelReal.net — focused on holding space for integration dialogues to complement DEI trainings, improving long-term impact and relationships. https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyswindler/

Hello from London, Currently EDI Lead always happy to connect https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjoelldeshields/

Good morning from sunny and warm Lenape land in NYC. Happy to be here. Lawyer. DEI Advocate. Startup aiming to change the nature of the legal profession by diversifying the entry-level ranks of lawyers. https://linkedin.com/in/bernadettebeekman and you can learn m more about the work I am doing at Legal Innovators by watching a video here:https://www.legal-innovators.com/learnmore/

I would love to know something, I never worked on the fiekd, but I have loads of International experience, and a passion to be in the DEI world. I come from leadership positions, but can’t find a way to breakthroughs the “lack” of formal experience in RH. Do I need THE certificate? Any advice is very welcome. My profile is https://www.linkedin.com/in/frances-regina Thank you so much,

Love Jennifer!

Yes! Jennifer is amazing

Hello from Chicago! Sharmila Fowler here. I am a DEI coach and consultant looking for my next opportunity. Would love to connect. https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharmilafowler/

Victoria Person, D&I Specialist at OutSolve in New Orleans. I am also in the D&I field thanks to a leader who recognized the connection on my behalf. My LGBTQ status has only served me well in the role. ;-)

Hi everybody!  Kayt Tiskus, in NYC.  I'm a DEIB consultant; much of my work is coaching business leaders, especially people trying to roll out policies but  who would like to feel more confident that they are using language their employees and customers will respond well to.  I also help implement concrete DEIB policies, and facilitate cocktail-style events for teams to discuss DEIB initiatives in a more fun and informal atmosphere. I am always looking for new clients, and for the right in-house role too!  I love these calls and enjoy making new friends.  Please feel free to reach out on LinkedIn and let's have a chat!  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayt-tiskus-she-her-hers-6b6559196/

Thank you Andre! I have been too afraid to do too much writing or posting, but this is a good reminder about the importance of sharing your voice.

Hello from NYC, I'm Head of US HR at the Financial Times. Would love to connect https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstydevine/

Love the message of speaking up and out opens doors!!

Good morning, Rivka Bent from Southern California. I’m so appreciative of the encouragement to “dare to dream” within the passion work of DEI — thank you!

I feel so encouraged to have a bigger mouth (and ask great questions)

Hi! Kelli Kombat - head of Employee Experience, International Trademark Association. Let's connect - www.linkedin.com/in/kelli-kombat

Hi from NYC! Chief Equity and Learning Officer. Always down to chat, connect and help others grow. http://linkedin.com/in/lmattocks

Hello from

I’m with you Mandice. I always ask sooo many questions

I love that Brian.

Hello from Montana! I am an Equity + Inclusion Consultant with The Montana Racial Equity Project.

Thank you so much for your transparency Natasha

+1

Good morning everyone! Jess Blair (she/her) here from Los Angeles. Please feel free to connect http://linkedin.com/in/jessica-blair-51058110

Say that Natasha!

“Undercover” - love that

#undercoverdei

Undercover DEI agent

I love that

“Undercover DEI person” — love that!

Such a resonant story, thanks for sharing Natasha!

Inez Elliott from Greensboro. Would like to connect with other passionate DEI practitioners https://www.linkedin.com/in/inezelliott

What. A. Journey!

Great hearing your story again @Natasha!

Yes Natasha!! You connected with us all!

Hello everyone! I am Dr. Nika White, Founder and Principal Lead Consultant with NWC (www.nikawhite.com). Love the JBC community and LOVE working with my valued colleague, Natasha Porizkova!

Hello all, this is Becky from Brooklyn, NY! Very excited to join my first call with you all. Am actively exploring in house jobs after consulting (people/hr) for the past several years. Would love to connect!

Thanks for sharing! I can totally resonate.

JBC Community success story! Yassssss

Speaking of LinkedIn: Hi all! Catalina (she/her) working at JUST Capital on DEI and Racial Equity research and partnerships! Would love to connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catalinacaro/

Hi Y’all! I’m Jennifer (Acevedo) Boren a Talent Acquisition Program Manager for a software company in Raleigh, NC! I’m always looking for community so please feel free to connect with me: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-boren/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikawhite/

Hi everyone, I am from the DC area, look forward to connect with other DEI Consultants and advocates! https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-paula-anderson-lcpc-ncc-2602476/

This is such a great story and loving the connection

Amazing story!

Launching DEI initiatives and being a superstar networker is the way to go. Amazing!

Great story, @Natasha!!

What a wonderful story

yes it is

loved..

LOL Brian!

YAY badass origin story @Natasha

Love hearing these stories

#DEISuperhero

Hi everyone! I’m a senior HR leader, DEI practitioner and Certified Diversity & Inclusion Recruiter looking for my next opportunity and enrolled in the JBC DEI Foundations Program. Love to connect: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carrieburd/ P.S. LOVE Nika White. Got hear her speak at the recent TAHRA ROI Summit.

I call @Natasha my "Rock Star"

Here is my LinkedIn profile link https://www.linkedin.com/in/roslyn-rice/

I was there - fantastic conversation with Brian over at NWC!!!

Natasha has a gift!

Yes and you did a great job @Brian!

Would love to join the call!

please provide login details

YES! Can you share link/info?

Nika White/JBC collaborations are GOLD

Yes! Would love to join the Friday call!

I’ll be there… @natasha and @DrNikaWhite

You can register here! https://hopin.com/events/intentional-conversations-with-natasha-porizkova-and-special-guest-rev-neil-thomas

Ok please tell that story

Wish I could join the Friday Dr. Nika White calls again! I have a standing meeting at that time :(

Here is the Intentional Conversations Vodcast that @Natasha hosted with @Brian - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xL8xrH3bkrU

Hey Surabhi 💖💖💖💖💖💖 so glad to see you speaking here

Plug for future agenda topic: Equity metrics and performance measures. What are the clear and robust measures you use to track diversity and inclusion efforts? Please kindly share any available resource. Thanks so much.

Free vodcast that takes place weekly where we intersection conversations of DEI with leadership and business. Join us. Yuu can register for future sessions and watch past replays here: https://www.nikawhite.com/intentional-conversations-2/

Hi Everyone! I work in higher ed and am currently working on my EdD and focusing the lack of women of color in senior leadership roles for my dissertation. I also run the DEI council for my division. I am hoping to eventually transition into a full-time DEI role and am excited to connect with others who are passionate about DEI. https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalondafmartin

I can see why Brian cried. I’m already getting emotional

PREACH!

Love that “the lonely only is the place of power"

“The lonely only is a place of power” YES!

Being an only is very relatable!

Speak your truth! Yes...….

Love the background Andre!

Hello, I am Laura from Denver, let's connect! https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-jeffries-005a8010/

Higher ed/Student affairs person here!

so important when parents encourage their kids to speak up esp when other generations have been silenced

+1 @JD

Hey everyone! I've invented a holistic new approach to DEI analytics that brings hard numbers to soft guesses. I'm on a mission to get my tools into the hands of practitioners who need help speaking to corporate leaders in the language of numbers. If you’re interested, hit me up on LinkedIn and let’s talk! https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-file

Yes, yes, yes!

Great work done by Linda Babcock and Sarah Laschever about women needing to ask more questions, and research on why they haven’t done so. Really was helpful to me.

Higher ed but career shifting.

“Yikes, what/who do I want to be when I grow up!?” — my personal mid-life crisis!

Thank you so much for sharing this. I needed to hear all of what was shared in these intros

So challenging to get clients/students to think of inclusion as diversity of perspective & not just of 'color.'

Learning communities are so important!

@Rivka Bent +1 “Me 2.0”

@Burd 😁

Love connecting https://www.linkedin.com/in/2006vickygonzalez/

Awesome stories!

Thank you for sharing about your journey!

Love it! This call is also such a great learning community! Wow thank you everyone for those powerful stories and backgrounds!

Working how it was built to work

"The system is working just fine! It's just not working for all of the people."

“Break the system and build a new one” YES Brian!!!

YES

Such an amazing panel!

Sheri Nasim from Center for Executive Excellence in San Diego here. Love this community! https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherinasim/

Shared connection. Intersectionality.

Love that, @Brian!

Yes! There are still many things I want to be/do when I grow up.

How do you respond to organizations looking for DEI professionals with 10+ HR degrees. Personally, I feel these firms are not ready for the work. Thoughts?

It’s me.. haha

Transferrable skills yes!

+1 to Tosin’s question

How do we overcome some of these unrealistic DEI job descriptions?

Yikes on bikes.

+1 to Tosin’s question too

I’m in a career shift after spending 20 years in career services and looking for opportunities in the DEI area. I welcome the opportunity to connect via LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lenroyjones/ Thanks, Lenroy

Yes Natasha's website is awesome!!

Great idea about making a website!

@Ramona—I use yikes all the time, but yikes on bikes :) :) :)

Hello Natasha! You’re awesome…

Thank you. I am so involved with

Such good advice Natasha

Great advice, Natasha!

Great tips, Natasha! Love the proactive approach.

I’ve felt so scared until this conversation today — you are all so very valuable and the ripple effect is unknown and exciting. Thank you!

@Michelle LOL

Yes, making connections has been very helpful!

Great advice!

That’s so true… securing ambassadors is key and taking your time…

Amazing..

Awesome insight!

Great advice Natasha!

Branding scares me. I need to grow in that area

I do that every time I connect with s9meone. I just connected with everyone who gave their LinkedIn. Please connect with me and accept my request.

Exactly Tosin. I began this work in 2009 when it wasn’t popular and you couldn’t make a great living doing it. I have transferrable skills, but I keep seeing the 10+ years experience requirement, many want tons of metrics and solid program management experience when those of us with advanced degrees have taken Statistics courses, comps and written theses which are overlooked when considering metrics experience.

So helpful! I’m in marketing currently as well and appreciate the guidance.

I've grown my LinkedIn followers to nearly 11,000 by posting (week)daily content. I've gotten both speaking engagements and corporate clients from the posts alone.

Fantastic recommendations, Natasha! I've always enjoyed our opportunities to connect!

@Mandice - same here

That's awesome @ Sheri

Jumping off for another meeting! Great conversation. Looking forward to connecting with as many of you as possible in this awesome JBC community. https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikawhite/

Thank you! Networking is as much about kindred spirits/passions finding each other as much as kindred fields & skills.

both

Say that

If we are not already connected, feel free to reach out! https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashaporizkova/

Hello from MN. Great insights! Thank you for sharing your journeys. I love the conversation about transferable skills. We should not silo ourselves or each other. https://linkedin.com/in/kristingoetze

I live in South Africa, I am Brazilian, my husband is American

Yes…

Feel free to connect with me and let’s expand our circles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/surabhilal

@Andrea - Yes! And they often want you to have ALL the skills an entire DEI dept might need instead of creating more specialized roles.

Oppression is global ….

@ Ramona !!!!!

Yes! A mentor once said "It's not who you know but what you do with who you know." Be bold. Don't underestimate what seems 'obvious' to you.

I am doing some work with our International school and it’s hard to share because some cases are so sensitive

the good thing is DEI practitioners can be global too, there’s good people globally :) it’s great to connect with them

I would encourage all of us to not only connect with each other, but to be intentional about building long term relationships, not transactional ones.

LinkedIn was critical. I had five plus different resumes that I constantly aligned with the job rec. Use your cover letters, too, to share why your skills are transferrable all while making sure you have the keywords the algorithms track.

I love that @lila!

It also takes time. I had to network with Patagonia for 15 months to get the job that I wanted with them. I met the Director of Recruiting at AfroTech in 2019 where they were presenting the awareness of their own privilege and their desire to create a more diverse culture. I let them know I wanted to help them make that change. Long way of saying be persistent don't give up!

yes. Thank you for answering this question!

Good question!

Any suggestions for small and new DEI groups on ways to get started? Should we focus on recruiting, sourcing?

YES! I second that. It takes a great deal of time. Staying focused and continuing to fight is critical. There were a LOT of tears and a few days spent in bed eating ice cream thinking I would never make it.

Second you, Morgan! I always forget the chat moves so quickly!

YES! I can’t even talk to them

Hi! I have a specialty in behavioral healthcare and happy to connect with others www.linkedin.com/in/zinarodriguez

@Morgan yes! it’s just as important to plant those seeds and nurture it over time

Great point, Brian. Being a DEI Practitioner requires a certain humility and an ability to admit what you don’t know, what you need to learn, and who should be brought in to lead the conversation. All the more reason to invest in building CoPs like this! We all need to feel comfortable supporting and not competing with one another.

Part of pivoting to inclusion is rethinking what 'credentials' matter. Companies are depriving themselves of excellent guidance by looking for too-narrow DEI creds.

+1 @ Lila!!!

Thanks, Surabhi. That’s one of the things I’m currently narrowing down for myself so I can move into something I actually will enjoy and be good at.

It can also be in ESG around data and analysis

That's so true Surabhi

Thank you Surabhi — being authentic and understanding the work focus is key

*permission to show up honestly

Great point Brian

I literally just talked about this this morning. Level of readiness is important

Oh wow

Exactly!

it’s hard to get discouraged and the passion is there to remind you of the light at the end of the tunnel

@Natasha: ICE CREAM means nothing without COOKIES!!

easy to*

Thank you again for your transparency

Thank you for your honesty, Natasha <3

keep going!

Thank you for sharing that Natasha!

5 interview processes x 5 weeks

OHH yes - rejection is a part of this journey

Please feel free to connect. I'm the Peace Nerd, and I specialize in peace innovation, somatics, and leadership education. I'm enthusiastic about decolonization and rematriation. I love collaboration! https://www.linkedin.com/in/em-bowen-ma-abs-they-them-7719b3a/

What was the hardest part of making the transition and how did you overcome the barriers?

Thank you for being so honest about your journey, Natasha!

I thank all of you for this conversation. I have been in the DEI marketplace with the fashion sector. Now I have morphed into a full fledged consultance with The Shainhouse Group, and we work in all business sectors.

You have to hit walls & barriers (and ceilings) in order to break them!

Dropping gems. Love it. This work is not easy.

It’s so important to hear that. And I see so many problems happening around, and I am helping as @Natasha said, Undercovered.

I agree with the comments being made here, RE: transferrable skills. I read an article this morning (wish I could recall the author’s name to give due credit) and she talked about the idea that DEI is a layer or “super power” that sits on top of and/or intersects with the other functions in the organization. This view leaves rooms for you to position yourself to apply a DEI lens to whatever functional expertise you bring, i.e. it doesn’t always mean a standalone DEI role.

Q: It's wise to spend the 'waiting' time really learning your DEI data & facts. But you can't learn EVERYthing. Is it good to narrow & specialize or go generalist? DEI is huge.

This is so encouraging. It took me about seven months to carve out a designated DEI role within my org.

Congratulations @Mandice

SUPPORTING YOU NATASHA!!!! WOO! So glad your interview process landed you at NWC!!!! Thankful to work alongside you!

Does anyone have any insight into the ‘recycled’ DEI job postings I keep seeing. I’m seeing the same DEI manager position that was listed last June then removed after 3 months and it’s open again, but the job description is still the same.

Thanks Roslyn!

And don’t beat yourself up if it takes longer!

Throw yourself a party because its Thursday, shoot. Sometimes you just need a party

Absolutely! Cheers to that

@Caroline Yes, don’t beat yourself up for sure.

+1 to Lila and Andrea’s questions. Andrea, I must be seeing the same ones you’re seeing! lol

YES Mandice! :)

Good question Andrea!

And yes to parties. :)

Q: Do you believe that all of the companies who are clamoring for DEI practitioners will keep the roles as time goes on, or do you think the roles will be on the chopping block first if there is ever a need for savings?

I am here for the party and to share the ice cream!!

So important to find the right culture fit too, bc many practitioners are finding that organizations are paying lip service to the subject by hiring, but not providing meaningful resources to back up the position.

sooo true

They are also risk averse

I concur BRIAN!

@Shalonda - I wonder the same

Say that Brian! And that in and of itself can be frustrating

Anytime to find a job or transition is tough, but I have heard of people taking longer than six months, so lets be patient and hold on to the hope.

Yes Ramona. I keep seeing more than one. Either they are hiring or they aren’t.

Good question @Shalonda

Trying to convince an org that something is beneficial is tiring

Because many are not passionate about this. This is a CALLING!

+1

The waiting time is the time to keep practicing the networking and learning content time. These are portfolio building and may be part of the path to a final outcome

So grateful to be here today…and now my current job forces my departure. I look forward to my quite time to sit in this information and inspiration. Bless you all

+1 Brian. I have an HR background also, and that has been my experience. My toughest critic of late is my first boss in HR who does not understand why I want to practice ally ship and integrate DEI into everything Kadabra does.

Education is a great place

SAY THAT AGAIN, ANDRE

YES ANDRE

Yes!

YES. Former recruiter here—totally agree!!!

Yes Andre!

Yes! Then belonging

Love that, Andre!

yes!!!!

"Make the house nice before you invite ppl over"

Belonging is the result of all of the work.

+1 Andre…make the house welcoming before opening the doors.

Yes Andre! There is a lot of research out there about this as well.

What does +1 mean that you are agreeing and supporting what the person is saying. Sorry, don’t know.

So important!

Sometimes an organization needs to hire the change maker.

Look at your retention numbers at your company… the data tell a story that CEO CFO boards… etc. will see and hear :-0

Yes Roma

Yes! Clean the house first.

Higher ed fails spectacularly in this way—bringing in more and more students and employees of color, for example, but investing nothing in support systems for them.

Thanks Roslyn:)

People want to rush to increase those numbers

This is SO SO important!!! I have dealt with this so much in recruiting.

Find your sponsors, create a network of champions, start a movement, make noise, spread the word

Yes, don’t invite folks to a messy “house”

Yes, Loris!

If you hire people into a “messy house,” they are going to leave

^^

I love that you can bring in consultants. Whoot, whoot

You're not rambling you dropping gems!

Yes Andre thank you. Also love the make the house nice before you bring people over... and not inviting folks to a messy house!

Invite consultants into your messy house. That's our specialty!

pearls of wisdom

As an HR and talent management specialist, have seen firsthand the challenges being raised here. We use recruitment to increase diversity without address the systemic and attitudinal barriers that limit success and/or a sense of belonging once they are in the “house”.

YES, Andre

Tell it Andre. Start with home first!

Agreed! You have to have the proper infrastructure to support diverse talent before you bring us in.

Do you think it will be more difficult for a white. Cisgender, straight women who is a boomer to land in a DEI job. Or, is it about what value you bring to an organization.

I love that imagery about cleaning up house before we invite people over! I'm preparing training for search committees and that's a point that needs to be made!

@Roma it's about your value!

Thank you all! Great conversation today. Let's talk about metrics and performance measures sometime soon.

Thanks Loris

Let’s connect and chat!http://linkedin.com/in/lmattocks

+1 Tosin

Question for the panel: what do you think of certifications? Are they worth getting? For those of us who already do work in the space, will we learn things, or is it all pretty basic, 101?

@Roma everyone has something to contribute to DEI. it’s wanting to learn, evolve, and advocate for others. There’s always value!

I'd love to connect:https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtanyamathew

Q: Can you talk more about how the work looks different if you are working on DEI at a strategic/executive level, Consultant, or in-house practitioner - sparked by Surabhi and Natasha mentioning that you need to know what you want to do in the DEI space

Thanks JD

Good advice Natasha

+1 to Caroline’s question

And +1 to Shalonda’s Q!

I did get the certification. It was helpful for me to understand many concepts, but someone else may think differently. There is lots out there to read one one’s own, but we were able to do work for a client. That provided lots of learning to me.

Plenty of work to go around!

This is always such an inspiring community. Thank you all for continuing to generously share your stories, perspectives and lived experiences. https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-jajko-he-him-his-ms-cdp-a498332/

Any of you in academia, please connect with me!https://www.linkedin.com/in/drtanyamathew

I'm looking to get my IICDP. Has anyone gone through that certification?

@Roma Brodecki great question! I think it often comes down to understanding when to speak and lead vs. when to amplify and advocate…

I love sharing! please connect with me and I am happy to share my expertise with you http://linkedin.com/in/pamela-shainhouse-she-her-4746a29

Have a support group. Love that.

Is there a recommendation for certification? Ecornell? The People Company? I like the idea of certification for proper strategy orientation.

@Surabhi Lal, amen to having each others' back!!

Would be interested in what tools/systems are most helpful in corporate environments that support DEI efforts.

With 5 minutes left, we’re not going to get to every question. We are all here to help though, feel free to reach out to us on LinkedIn.

My direct email is brian@hummingbirdhumanity.com

Facts!

No backsliding. DEI should be essential.

@ Kadiyah !!!!!!

@Kadiyah- absolutely!

Yes, feel free to reach out! You can reach me via LinkedIn or through email natasha@nikawhite.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashaporizkova/

I want to echo the requests for a future JBC call (or really, multiple ones) to focus on metrics, systems, and strategy. It’s a question that comes up nearly every week, so maybe it’s an area a lot of us need more education/guidance on. Thanks!

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mandice-mcallister/

Thanks for a great conversation! I've been leading DEI work in a niche nonprofit space for over15 years, and am excited to broaden my impact to the wider DEI world. Would love to connect! https://www.linkedin.com/in/eva-stern/

Love this community!

It’s not only the focus and belief, but the demonstrable results that will make DEI viable. Absolutely part of successful, holistic organizations.

And come join me tomorrow with Rev. Neil Thomas! https://hopin.com/events/intentional-conversations-with-natasha-porizkova-and-special-guest-rev-neil-thomas

Brian, Surabhi, Natasha, and Andre: Thanks so much for sharing your incredibly inspiring stories and thank you for all you do to make the world more inclusive!

Really appreciate the call and speakers this week!! Please connect: https://linkedin.com/in/ramonagupta

I did Ecornell. It's great for understanding how DEI should work within an org. I'm finishing up the Advanced D&I via Cornell ILR. That's for people interested in CDO training

Certification can be great, and will always show a credibility. Can you please post the certification that is for free for a University in Florida. I dont remember. Lenroy, can you please answer this.

The University of South Florida is offering a free certificate program.

Adding that certifications and people who have gone through certifications can be part of building your network.

Thank you for this discussion. Great space to hear stories and share thoughts in the space.

https://www.usf.edu/business/certificates/diversity-equity-inclusion/

DEI calls are good for my soul. I notice a difference in my thinking and my overall mental health. Very thankful for this space!

Thank you. Thank you. Thank you!!!

That’s the certificate course through University of south Florida!

YES Andre!!

IKR?!?!? PREACH

@Kadiyah, I have this on my calendar...it's so good for my soul!

The University of South Florida is offering a free certificate program. @Roma Brodecki can you share any info?

Thank you Natasha for sharing that resource

https://www.jbconlinelearning.com/courses/jbc-dei-practitioners-program

YES to therapy!!!

Thank you for mentioning therapy Andre! So important when you are taking on this work.

I’m a USF alumni!!!

I did the Cornell course but I don’t think there are credentials to add your name from that class right?

This has been great.

This has been great. Thanks so much!

💖💖

Always a fantastic time connecting with this dynamically talented community. Happy to connect https://www.linkedin.com/in/damon-maassen/

THANK YOU ALL!

Back at you, @Natasha!

Great call! Appreciate the robust conversations. Look forward to connecting! Cassandra Charles-Gerst

Thank you panelists and Brian!

THANK YOU, Brian, Surabhi, Natasha, Andre and the JBC team!

Thank you, panel, great conversation!!

Thank you so much..

Would love to connect with you all: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lexie-thrash-69169b86/

Good trouble

That part!

Your authentic presence is your message!

I am too passionate to give it up!!

THANKS all!

Excellent chat!

Thank you! I didn’t think there was “credentials”

Yes thank you all! Please stay connected :) https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabellacockerell/

Thanks everyone! This has been wonderful!

Thank you!!!

Thank you!! This was wonderful!

These calls are the BEST!!! Thank you panelists!!

Amazing. Thanks so much!

Thank you!

Thanks all!!!!

Thank you all!

Thank you all! What a joy to be with you all.

Thank you all!

Thank you all!

Thank you!!

This space is amazing! Thank you!

thanks for sharing :-)

Thank you!

Thanks everyone!!!

Thank you! Let's connect!

Great job panel! Wonderful conversations.

Thank you all.

This was fantastic!