36 - Evaluating Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Practices Across Multiple Sectors

Abstract Information:

Poster #1

This poster presents a framework for evaluating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) across three key areas: higher education, the private sector, and the integration of refugees into the workforce. Since 2020, the heightened focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), promoted by worldwide social movements, has brought about substantial reactions from several industries. The proposed framework seeks to provide guidance for evaluating DEI efforts, ensuring that they not only meet legal obligations but also contribute to significant and sustained inclusion. The focus of this first paper primarily explores the influence of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) activities on student enrollment trends, campus atmosphere, and institutional efforts to promote diversity within the higher education sector. It examines the influence of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) activities on important academic outcomes in higher education, particularly in terms of student enrollment, retention, and successful completion of degree programs. The research is based on a qualitative analysis, relying only on secondary data sources such as institutional reports and peer reviewed articles on higher education diversity equity and inclusion. The proposed DEI evaluation framework is intended to be widely applicable across several industries, with this study specifically highlighting its significance in the context of higher education. The framework offers a comprehensive and detailed examination of DEI results, making it a great resource for institutions aiming to improve their DEI initiatives and develop more inclusive educational settings. This paper complements the ongoing discussion on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) by introducing a framework for evaluation that not only tackles the challenges faced in higher education but also incorporates perspectives from the business sector and the participation of refugee workers. The primary objective is to provide a strong and flexible framework that may assist institutions in evaluating and enhancing their DEI projects.

Poster #2

In the private sector, there is a pressing need for standardized metrics to evaluate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Currently, no unified approach exists, leading to inconsistencies in how DEI efforts are measured and reported. This study seeks to address this gap by analyzing secondary data from ten representative publicly traded companies that currently operate in Michigan. Through a content and comparative analysis, this research identifies critical areas where a comprehensive DEI Evaluation Framework could provide value. The proposed framework aims to amplify DEI voices within the private sector, offering clear guidance on evaluation and ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal regulations in the United States. The findings indicate that while companies utilize a range of metrics—spanning demographics, hiring practices, retention rates, and organizational culture—the effectiveness of these DEI initiatives varies widely. Notably, some organizations have made significant strides in embedding DEI into their strategic goals, demonstrating a commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces. Others, however, excel in broader social impact, yet still face challenges in achieving greater gender and racial diversity, particularly at senior levels or within specific regions. These disparities underscore the necessity of a unified framework that can guide consistent and effective DEI evaluation. To address these challenges, the proposed DEI Evaluation Framework focuses on four critical areas: recruitment, hiring, retention, and promotion. It underscores the importance of leadership commitment, the development of robust policies and initiatives, and the implementation of targeted education and training programs. By consistently evaluating DEI efforts, organizations can better align their efforts with long-term goals and effectively communicate their progress to stakeholders, ensuring compliance with local, state, and federal legislation. Ultimately, this framework seeks to bridge the gap between legal mandates and the internal contexts of organizations, offering a structured, actionable approach for advancing DEI initiatives in the private sector.

Poster #3

The third poster delves into evaluating DEI initiatives in the workplaces both in private sector and non-private with a focus on refugee integration. This poster addresses the impact of these initiatives on DEI dynamics, particularly in recruitment processes, potentially hindering diversity. This poster explores DEI initiatives' effect on refugee employment, a marginalized group in many workplaces. With global crises forcing millions to seek refuge annually, the United States receives a significant share. The Presidential Determination on Refugee Admissions set a refugee limit of 125,000 per year since Fiscal Year 2022. DEI efforts in workplaces aim to facilitate refugee integration into the workforce impacting hiring practices, training, retention, and promotion. This work underscores the importance of DEI initiatives in creating inclusive workplaces and evaluates their effectiveness in integrating refugees which is essential for their self-sufficiency post-migration. By exploring DEI initiatives in various private and non-profit organizations in Michigan, this study seeks to address the challenges that hold refugee population back from entering the workforce. The findings will result in proposing an effective DEI Evaluation guidnace with respect to refugee population.