NVC Addressing DEI in the Region

In Chamber Blog, DE&I by DC

According to a Pew Research study, only 30% of employees in the U.S. say that their employers put an emphasis on diversity in the workplace. With over 400 member companies—representing 500,000 employees—we believe that growing the rich diversity in our Region is crucial for long-lasting business growth. NVC has a range of strategic initiatives addressing diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the Region that provide meaningful networking opportunities.

Through the leadership of the NVC DEI Board of Advisors, we have implemented a range of programs, including DEI Connects and Champions for Accountability, to provide vital learning opportunities for member companies. Our DEI Board of Advisors consists of Regional DEI leaders that work together to create meaningful associations, enriching our community. NVC values working together to reach a common goal and thanks our hardworking team of individuals for their contributions.

To measure employer diversity over time, NVC partners with the Community Foundation of Northern Virginia to produce the Champions for Accountability. Alongside important research and learnings, this program awards employers with a badge for their efforts in developing an inclusive system for underrepresented communities. These companies display their willingness to collect, share, and act on data about the demographic composition of their owners, senior staff, and boards.

DEI Connects is a monthly webinar session that allows for NVC members to share, learn, and implement best practices in diversity, equity and inclusion in their employee culture, talent development, and employee recruiting and retention. Members who lead DEI share their best practices and encourage dialogue that explores techniques and ideas that have proven successful in expanding diversity and inclusion in the workplace. Our next event is on July 16th.

NVC is also proud to announce that Julie Coons, President and CEO, was selected as an honoree for the Washington Business Journal’s 2024 LGBTQ+ Business Awards. Limited to 10 honorees, this important award recognizes individuals who have contributed to advancements in LGBTQ+ equality in the Greater Washington Region. We commend Julie and our network of Regional leaders for their unwavering, vital efforts in recognizing ways we can grow the diverse population of our Region.