Integrating DEI Into Our Workplace

Laurie Wiest, Senior Vice President, Human Resources & Member Relations

What is DEI?

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) has rightfully entered the spotlight in the workplace, and it is becoming more and more of a priority. In 2020, almost twice as many HR executives than in 2019 pinpointed DEI as a key issue1, and job posts for recruiters specializing in diversity have increased roughly 800%2.

The overwhelming consensus is that DEI is important. But what is it exactly? o

Diversity can be defined as differences--race, religion, sexual orientation, age and others. At The Summit, we respect, value and embrace those differences. We strategically recruit an applicant pool that is representative of our community at large, and work to identify and break down barriers to diversity.

From a business standpoint, employing people with differences results in a variety of perspectives that spur an organization to think outside its own box and come up with more innovative solutions and methods. This, in turn, helps an organization identify and reach goals and (in our case) better serve our diverse members and community.

Equity is fairness. In a workplace, it means that pay is fair, employees have equal access to opportunities for advancement and they get whatever support is needed. It’s a collaborative process of respectful listening and where everyone’s voice is important. At The Summit, we encourage keeping an open mind and assuming positive intent in all communications.

When we recognize that greater equity is needed, we figure out how best to accomplish it. For instance, if meeting around a standing table is awkward for an employee with physical limitations, the set-up is altered to accommodate everyone.

For us at The Summit, an inclusive organization is one where everyone shares a sense of belonging and value. It’s one with a culture that welcomes differences, and where employees are comfortable being their true selves. Inclusion requires an open-door policy where employees can speak to a manager about any workplace concern—whether that’s a disrespectful comment or action, or just something that doesn’t feel right—and be taken seriously. Inclusion is best created intentionally, meaning it is actively, purposely fostered.

Having an internal DEI Council has been a great tool for us. This group is made up of a cross-section of employees from different departments and experiences. As we work together to integrate DEI into our practices, our employees are better supported and engaged, our business is more mindful, and we are better able to provide the products and services our members need most. We are seeing DEI’s continued potential as a source of strength for the workplace, for individual employees and for our communities.

1.     According to Gartner Research as reported in Harvard Business Review, May 27, 2021.

2.     According to Gartner Analysis as reported in Harvard Business Review, May 27, 2021.