Diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) has always been the tent-pole to our mission and vision of Saga Education. We aspire to remain at the cutting edge of educational innovation and impact. Meet our DEIB committee members and discover how they integrate DEIB into their personal lives and nurture a sense of belonging at all levels of our organization.
Truthfully, ALL DEIB topics and issues drive passion for me. DEI and creating spaces of belonging will always be a top priority and of great importance. I see it as an everyday thing, the same as a daily regimen or as common as 'hi and hello.'
DEI is important to me personally because I feel like I have witnessed a time when things weren't equitable. I have been in environments that are not diverse and have felt like an outcast, thus not belonging. It does not feel good, it is simply wrong. I want to be a part of every conversation that leads to opportunity, bridging the gaps and systemic changes, and doing my part to promote healthy conversations that allow for awareness and change. Everything starts with a conversation, and then there's action! I want to listen, talk, and then lead!
I currently hold the Diversity Chair position for my local SHRM board and serve on another board that serves tomorrow's leaders.
How much time do you have? :-) I don't think I could list just one or even a top five. But what I do know is that I want team members to feel like they have a space that serves them and fills their cups.
Not anyone directly. I am influenced by my experiences and the impact of others. Again, DEIB is as constant or common as a daily greeting.
You have to have a strong team of support. DEIB is not a one-person thing, it is definitely all hands.
Just come, just try -- hang out with the DEIB Committee during a monthly planning meeting or join the space. The DEIB Committee serves Saga; we work for Saga. It is not about anyone's individual goals or agendas. It is about what's best for Saga.
With regard to making a difference, I get regular feedback on our DEIB efforts and the committee. Team members seem to enjoy it and find value in the DEIB efforts. What do I want to see in the future... I mean, EVERYTHING - lol!
Read our three-year DEIB Strategic Plan on how we will use these work components to accelerate educational equity through the proven power of high-impact tutoring.