Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee
Committee Description:
The Committee raises awareness and support across our profession of the NACE core value of inclusion: to foster and support diversity and inclusion to advance equity. The Committee will focus on increasing opportunities to share perspectives and leading practices and suggest content to foster and enable the NACE Statement of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
Goals:
The Committee will work to ensure outcomes in support of the NACE Strategic Plan with a focus on the following goals:
• Champion Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Champion equitable support, representation, and opportunities for all.
• Lead Dialogue: Amplify the importance of the work of NACE and the professions by leading the dialogue among colleges, employers, policy makers, and the public.
• Provide quality research, content and programming: Increase member value through progressive research, content, and programming that address the needs of our field.
• Expand and cultivate community: Grow and diversify membership and increase audience participation, sense of belonging, and engagement.
Committee Charge(s):
As new executive orders, legislation, and shifting cultural expectations shape the DEI conversation, this committee will provide insights into how NACE can address these challenges and opportunities. The committee will focus on the impact on colleges and universities, employers, and the broader community while ensuring that NACE’s resources and advocacy reflect best practices for fostering an inclusive workforce.
Timeframe:
7/1/2025 to 6/30/2026
• Deliverables ongoing July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026
Deliverables Expected:
• Guide NACE’s Messaging:
o You will help determine how NACE should communicate about inclusive excellence. This includes ensuring that NACE’s messaging remains relevant and reflective of the current societal challenges, as well as new executive orders and regulations. Your work will ensure that NACE’s messaging resonates with the needs of members while addressing key external influences, including political shifts and changing public expectations.
• Analyze the Impact of Executive Orders on Higher Education and Employers:
o You will explore the impact of new executive orders and regulations on colleges, universities, and employers, specifically in relation to DEI. This includes understanding how these changes may affect recruitment practices and policies and the way that higher education institutions and employers approach their initiatives.
• Examine the Impact on Employers:
o Assess how evolving regulations and societal changes affect employers’ inclusion strategies - recruitment, retention, and organizational culture. You will work to develop practical strategies for employers to maintain compliance with regulations while ensuring their commitment to an inclusive workforce is not compromised.
• Identify the Needs of Our Community:
o You will investigate the current needs of our community, particularly in response to new executive orders and shifting societal expectations. Your goal will be to identify what additional support, resources, and tools NACE can provide to help both employers and educational institutions address challenges effectively. This will include gathering insights from employers, colleges, and underrepresented groups.
• Review and Update NACE’s DEI Statement and Materials:
o You will conduct a review of NACE’s existing DEI statement and related materials, ensuring they align with current regulations, best practices, and societal shifts. Additionally, you will provide suggestions on how to strengthen these materials and offer actionable guidance for organizations on retaining their values in light of changing regulations and political climate.
Number of Volunteers Needed:
20
QUESTIONS?
Contact Cecelia Nader, Senior Executive and Volunteer Administrator at cnader@naceweb.org.