WHY THIS MATTERS TO ME

Diversity, equity, and inclusion… all aspects of a workplace that can thrive, and all aspects of a society that can grow and create to its most vibrant and full potential.

From my experience walking the rows upon rows of  remembrances at the AIDS Quilt in Washington, to the hallowed halls of the National Holocaust Museum, and the profound exhibits at the National Museum of the American Indian, and the Tenement Museum in New York, I’ve witnessed, sometimes first hand, the realities and vital importance of diversity in this country. My views have been shaped by a recognition of how the lack of diversity and representation in the past has led society astray with drastic affects, and how there is potential and unseen rewards to moving from this past into an inclusive present where the unique gifts and voices of all peoples are celebrated and elevated.

Professionally, I was forever influenced by the advertising philosophy of the United Colors of Benetton and the photography work of Oliviero Toscani during my time as an Art Director in Italy. I’ve placed inclusivity as a core value in my work, and advocated for diverse voices to be heard and seen in image and video campaigns for Nike Swim, Rafaella, and Perry Ellis International. As a design leader, I’ve looked for opportunities to uncover and uplift the talents of diverse teams, and fundamentally believe that without a base of diversity and equity, growing creatively and learning are impossible.