In December, we announced the launch of our firm’s new Diversity and Inclusion initiative and the addition of a new core value that reads:
“We cultivate and preserve a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion.”
Treating one another equally and respectfully has been a guiding principle in how our firm has operated since our founding two decades ago. But until now, that tenet of our culture was implied rather than stated explicitly. In a special video shared with the team, Shawn Black and I explained our intent behind the new value is to ensure equity and fairness across our firm in how we treat each other, in how we interact with our clients, and in how we select business partners.
To that end, we will prioritize recruiting and hiring to create a more diverse workplace this year. Similarly, we will institute a training and mentoring program to advance our team members’ career opportunities, helping each achieve their highest potential. Shawn and I are committed to the successful rollout of the D&I initiative, and will be accountable for it as we oversee its implementation and update the team on milestones and progress made throughout 2021.
We are excited about the new D&I chapter in our firm’s operation. As we celebrate the new year and hope for the promise it holds, we wish you and yours all the best in 2021.