The Business School undertook a dynamic set of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) activities throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, led by its annual Diversity and Allyship week events in February. The work deepened students’ sense of belonging and responded to inclusion and diversity in the workforce.
Professor of Finance Şengay Ağca, who serves as chief diversity officer at GW Business, said the work of the Dean’s Diversity Council, in collaboration with students, faculty, staff, and community partners, focused on four themes: an inclusive and supportive culture, DEI partnerships, inclusive teaching and research, and equity and access.
The centerpiece of the work was the February 3-7 Diversity and Allyship Week, which featured thought leader presentations, corporate panels, job market information, and research findings. The week opened with Global Culture Day, organized by the Dean’s Diversity Council, Undergraduate Business Association, Graduate Business Association, and International Student Advisory Board to showcase regional cultures through food, clothing, art, and performances.
“Shaping the Future: Indigenous Leadership and the Student Experience” brought together GW Business Professor Edward Hall; Naomi Miguel, former executive director of the White House Initiative for Native American and Tribal Colleges and Universities; and Shaun Deschene, former director of the Office of Native Affairs and Economic Development at the U.S. Department of Commerce for a panel discussion.
Another presentation featured industry executives and academics who explored “Neurodiversity in Education, Leadership, and Beyond.” Panelists were KPMG partner Sean Hoffman; Scott Gibson, who leads D.C.-based nonprofit Melwood, which secures employment for people with disabilities; and GW Graduate School of Education and Human Development Associate Professor Yoshie Nakamura, whose current research examines the identity development of neurodiverse leaders. Miranda Montenegro, GMBA ’25, moderated the discussion.
Meanwhile, in a special edition of George Talks Business, Dean Vanessa Perry interviewed Rayvon Fouché, associate dean for graduate education at Northwestern University’s School of Communication, on “Transforming Tech Innovation with Inclusive Perspectives.”
At a Career Town Hall, students, faculty, and alumni heard from officials at multinational companies about what’s ahead for job recruitment. “A lot of businesses are taking DEI seriously, and this is affecting the talent pool they are seeking,” Ağca said.
The long menu of DEI activities at other times during the academic year included the piloting of a student survey on inclusion and belonging, a book club focused on diversity themes, discussions on faculty research linked to diversity, and faculty workshops aimed at creating equitable learning environments.
The year of programming was not limited to students, faculty and staff. Members of the dean’s search committee also undertook unconscious bias training.