Inclusive Communities Launches LeadDIVERSITY Program

In partnership with the Omaha Public Power District, Greater Omaha Chamber of Commerce, and the Business Ethics Alliance, Inclusive Communities announces the launch of LeadDIVERSITY (www.inclusive-communities.org/leaddiversity), a new year-long leadership program centered around creating localized solutions for topics surrounding diversity, equity and inclusion.

Beginning this September, participants will receive exceptional skills training to move Nebraska workplaces and communities forward. They will work together on a service project highlighting the imperative nature of implementing serious social change.

“Omaha has a wealth of diverse talent, but recent studies have shown that our city has room for improvement when it comes to recruiting, retaining, and promoting talent from underserved communities in particular young professionals of color,” said Cammy Watkins, Inclusive Communities deputy director. “LeadDIVERSITY aims to raise awareness about systemic inequities within our community, educate leaders on how to confront these issues, and develop a pipeline of change-makers and influencers to advocate for a more equitable and inclusive workforce.”

The goals of LeadDIVERSITY are to deliver skills to cross-sectional professionals and community leaders, create a pathway for sustainable diverse leadership, and improve business outcomes with increased effectiveness and innovation. Sessions will include discussion of topics such as identity, privilege, institutional inequities, discrimination, ethical leadership, and creating inclusion.

Applications for the first LeadDIVERSITY class will be accepted May 1–31. The program will be limited to 20 participants for the first year. For more information or to complete an application, visit www.inclusive-communities.org/leaddiversity.