Here at CUNA Mutual Group, we have made a commitment to build a more diverse, inclusive organization. It’s a fantastic initiative; but, in practice, it takes a lot more than just ideas. We need to understand why diversity and inclusion (D&I) is important – and how to take action to reach company goals.

Recently, I attended a local forum focused on diversity through the lens of advancing talent, opportunity and growth for all my local region’s citizens.

For me, personally, the summit was incredibly thought provoking. It challenged my beliefs and assumptions about Madison, where I live and work. The summit also offered perspectives from beyond my local area, examining case studies from some of the most successful communities the country. These programs inspired me. They embraced and encouraged diversity in all its forms –and they spurred economic growth.

From mass transit and job accessibility strategies to financial marketing campaigns, many ideas shared at the summit were practical and proven. And, they could realistically be adopted and implemented by organizations anywhere.

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