DEI & Its Impact on Our Lives

This panel discussion explores diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in organizations through personal narratives and practical strategies. Facilitated by Rosa Licea-Mailloux of MFS Investments, the conversation features Joan Countryman (educator and former board chair), Marvell Adams (COO of Kendall Corporation), and Lynn Giacobe (CEO of Kendall at Home).

The panelists discuss how DEI manifests in organizational settings, emphasizing that true inclusion requires more than numerical diversity—it demands creating environments where people can authentically belong. Adams shares experiences of code switching throughout his career, highlighting how exhausting it is to maintain different personas across professional environments. The conversation examines how tokenism undermines genuine inclusion efforts when organizations fail to implement systemic change.

Key insights on DEI in organizations include:

• The importance of representation at all organizational levels, particularly in leadership and board positions
• How organizations must conduct honest self-assessments rather than focusing on superficial diversity metrics
• The need for authentic mentorship that acknowledges different lived experiences
• The value of creating spaces where employees can bring their whole selves to work

The panel also addresses practical approaches for organizations beginning DEI work, emphasizing the necessity of courage to acknowledge shortcomings and commit to meaningful change. According to the panelists, successful DEI initiatives require organizations to move beyond performative actions and implement structural changes that foster genuine belonging.

The discussion concludes on a hopeful note, with panelists expressing optimism that increased willingness to have difficult conversations about DEI in organizations represents progress toward creating more equitable and inclusive environments.