Diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant Marlon Moore, Ph.D., has aptly summed up his philosophy to the field in the title of his newest book, “Diversity Starts with You.” Dr. Moore published the strategy guide in 2021 to help leaders develop a world-class DEI strategy for their organizations. The book reflects Dr. Moore’s 20 years of experience as a nationally recognized leader in DEI, working with organizations and business professionals across multiple industries to strengthen what has become a top priority as they look to the future.
“Many professionals were asking what they can do in this environment,” Dr. Moore says. “After the murder of George Floyd, people and organizations alike were interested in how they could impact societal change. This included establishing strategic organizational objectives that would move the needle on economic inclusion and/or pay equity. I felt that if I couldn’t engage every person or organization, I at least wanted to offer a resource guide on key concepts related to DEI that I believe can make a difference.”
In his book, Dr. Moore also shares some very personal experiences—some of which he’s never before revealed. It includes his experience being called a racial slur for the first time.
“Not in the deep south, not in 1960, but in the Midwest around 2018,” Dr. Moore says. “This was an unfortunate reminder that there are still significant opportunities to educate people of the impact of bias, stereotypes, and overt racism. To become a more inclusive society and business community, it is important that we all embrace the notion that diversity starts with you.”
The former chief diversity and inclusion officer for Huntington National Bank, Dr. Moore launched his own firm, Marlon Moore Consulting, during the pandemic. perspective and an appreciation for what can be learned from global communities. He has authored several articles for Savoy and Kaleidoscope magazines and received recognition from Black Enterprise Magazine, National Diversity Council, Forbes magazine, and Fortune 100 magazine. In addition to his book, he is host of “Moore DEI Discussions,” a podcast series that features conversations about DEI with C-suite executives.
For his clients, his firm provides the format and structure for establishing DEI operating plans inclusive of key strategic initiatives and performance indicators. These customized plans are based on industry leading best practices and value alignment, something that’s more important than ever for today’s organizations.
Importantly, Dr. Moore, says, having a diverse workforce starts with representation, which means attracting staff that are representative of various genders and gender identities, sexual orientation, and ethnicity, among other dimensions.
Understanding that successful DEI strategies begin with action-based support from organizational leaders was something Dr. Moore learned at The Chicago School, and it truly prepared him to work across all levels of an organization as part of this new phase of his career.
“The Chicago School uniquely prepared me to support leaders at all levels of an organization whether it is board members, C-suite executives, or manager-level team members,” Dr. Moore says. “The curriculum offered theoretical concepts and practical application of real-life experiences from which to build upon.”
To current students and new graduates of The Chicago School—in the context of the world they are entering—Dr. Moore advises, “Be authentic in each personal engagement. Be intentional about your career plans and aspirations. Embrace differences, and always strive to deliver excellent results.
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