I frequently think about the different groups of folks in my life as a collection of orbiting planets, each individual path intersecting and overlapping with others differently. Regardless of the orbit’s proximity to me, it’s been a priority of mine to ensure the space I create is safe for everyone. As we continue to experience so many rampant changes and rollbacks to civil and personal rights, it’s more important to me than ever and in every facet of my life. At work, we’re often told to keep our heads down and to keep the personal orbits from overlapping with the professional. For the first time in my career, I feel I can truly be my authentic self at work and it’s been a life changing experience.
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) isn’t just a corporate bingo buzzword at ROI Solutions—it’s built into our values. From day one, I’ve felt supported in bringing my whole self to work, and I’ve made it my mission to help others feel the same way.
When we talk about DEIB, to me we’re talking about creating an environment where people don’t have to code-switch or hide parts of themselves to fit in. It’s about making sure that every person, no matter their background, identity, or experience, feels seen, heard, and valued. I really feel that at ROI Solutions, we acknowledge and celebrate everyone’s differences.
One of the things I appreciate most about our culture is that we create a safe space for people to show up exactly as they are. That kind of authenticity isn’t just good for us as individuals, it’s good for the work we do. The truth is, when we create environments where people feel safe, respected, and valued, we all benefit. Research backs this up—companies that prioritize diversity and belonging are not just more innovative and adaptable, but they also perform better.
But for me, it’s more than just statistics. It’s about when people feel comfortable, they collaborate better, innovate more, and bring their best ideas forward. In the nonprofit world, where our clients are doing critical work every day, those ideas matter. When our nonprofit partners interact with us, they know they’re in a place where authenticity is valued, where they don’t have to put on a front, and where their work is supported by people who truly see them. That connection makes all the difference.
This commitment to belonging isn’t just talk. We’ve been intentional about recruiting diverse talent, making space for honest conversations, and continuously learning how to do better. And the best part? It’s not just leadership driving this effort—it’s everyone. The DEIB team has sponsored the creation of affinity groups, a weekly Chat & Craft gathering, and a forum for folks to share and discuss resources.
Lately, though, I’ve been thinking about how important it is to keep doing this work. Across the corporate world, we’re seeing companies start to pull back on their DEIB efforts. Political pressures, including rollbacks that started under the new administration, have led some organizations to deprioritize this work. But that doesn’t mean the need has gone away.
This is a marathon with no finish line. There’s always more to learn, more perspectives to consider, and more ways to create meaningful change. But I also know that when people feel safe, valued, and free to be themselves, they do incredible things. That’s why this work matters to me.
