Executive Director of the Office for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (ODEIB), New York City Bar Association
What does true inclusion in the workplace look like to you?
True inclusion begins with respecting every person’s human dignity. It means creating policies, cultures, and workplaces that recognize what people actually need to thrive—community, flexibility, space to heal, and space to live fully. Too often, work is structured around outdated expectations that leave little room for people to be human. Inclusion requires reimagining those systems and creating environments where people can bring their full selves to work and life.
Can you share a moment when inclusion truly changed an outcome?
In 2020, while working as a litigator at a global law firm, I felt overwhelmed by the silence surrounding the pain, loss, and inequities exposed during the pandemic and racial reckoning. I wrote an eight-page letter expressing how unseen I felt and how disconnected I had become from the work.
I was terrified to send it. Instead of backlash, the letter opened the door to honest conversations. Those conversations led to mentoring circles, forums for difficult discussions, and stronger community-building efforts throughout the firm. What began as isolation transformed into belonging—not just for me, but for many others who finally felt safe enough to speak openly about their experiences.
How do you define a culture where people genuinely belong?
Belonging starts with psychological safety. People need to know they can make mistakes without fear of being excluded, punished, or judged.
At home, I teach my children that mistakes are not their identity and do not determine their worth. The same principle applies in organizations. When people know they don’t have to earn their place and that they are valued simply because they belong, they can contribute more authentically and confidently. Real belonging is built through accountability, trust, and community.
What role does leadership play in shaping inclusive environments?
Leadership sets the tone. A strong leader doesn’t simply talk about culture—they model it.
People are always watching how leaders behave, especially during difficult moments. Inclusive leaders demonstrate respect, empathy, accountability, and openness. While strong teams can sometimes overcome poor leadership, organizations thrive when leaders consistently embody the values they expect from others.
How is your organization using inclusion to drive opportunity and innovation?
My work focuses heavily on pipeline programs that expand access to the legal profession. We support students at every stage—from high school to college, law school, and early-career legal professionals.
Inclusion isn’t simply about inviting people into a space. It’s about preparing individuals for success while also preparing organizations to welcome different experiences, perspectives, and needs. Access without support isn’t enough. Real inclusion requires building systems that help people thrive once they arrive.
What everyday actions can make the biggest difference in workplace culture?
Connection matters.
My team meets every day. Sometimes we discuss work, and sometimes we simply check in on each other as people. We celebrate wins, offer support during challenges, and create space for authentic relationships.
Small acts of care—asking how someone is doing, offering help when a colleague is overwhelmed, or simply making time for conversation—create cultures where people feel valued and supported. Those moments add up.
If you could challenge executives to do one thing differently tomorrow, what would it be?
Dream bigger.
Many leaders underestimate their ability to create meaningful change. I would encourage executives to remember that they are humans first and leaders second. When leaders focus on building sustainable futures for people—not just organizations—they create environments where everyone benefits.
The future depends on leaders who are willing to think beyond short-term pressures and invest in collective success.
What role does mentorship play in creating inclusive organizations?
Mentorship is essential.
I often tell people that mentors are like Pokémon—you should collect as many as possible. No single mentor can provide everything you need. Different mentors offer different perspectives, experiences, and guidance.
Organizations shouldn’t leave mentorship to chance. Intentional mentorship programs create opportunities for learning, connection, and growth. They help people access information, relationships, and support that might otherwise remain out of reach.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“Water yourself first.”
A close friend and mentor gave me those words during one of the most difficult periods of my life. I had spent years pouring my energy into work and caring for others while neglecting myself.
That advice reminded me that the best way to help others is from a place of abundance, not depletion. What we give to others should come from our overflow—not from an empty cup.
What would you tell your 15-year-old self?
I would tell her, “I’m proud of you. You did it.”
Despite all the challenges, I’ve become exactly the person I hoped to be. Not because everything went according to plan, but because I stayed true to myself and remained willing to change course when something no longer aligned with my values.
That freedom—the ability to choose a different path when necessary—is one of the greatest privileges we can have.
What legacy do you hope to leave?
A simple one:
Everyone belongs.
I want people to know that they don’t have to earn their humanity, their dignity, or their place in a community. We all belong, and our systems should reflect that truth.
Who do you admire most and why?
Two people immediately come to mind: Harriet Tubman and Jane Goodall.
Harriet Tubman inspires me because of her courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to helping others reach freedom. Her work reminds me that true leadership is about creating pathways for others.
Jane Goodall inspires me because of her deep compassion, curiosity, and dedication to understanding the world around her. Both women demonstrate the power of purpose-driven lives and the impact one person can have on countless others.