At SERI, we believe that inclusive leadership is essential for innovation, collaboration, and long-term organizational success. This case study highlights our partnership with a mission-driven organization committed to building a culture where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) are woven into the fabric of leadership and everyday operations.

The Challenge.

The organization—a national nonprofit with a diverse workforce but uneven representation in leadership—recognized the need to move beyond surface-level DEI efforts and towards a deep, systemic approach to inclusion. Leaders were eager to be part of the solution, but lacked the tools, shared language, and strategic direction to drive meaningful change.

Our Approach.

SERI collaborated closely with the organization to co-create a comprehensive DEI and Inclusive Leadership Strategy, tailored to their context and culture. Our approach included:

1. Leadership Alignment & Capacity Building.

   • Delivered customized inclusive leadership training for executives, managers, and emerging leaders.

   • Facilitated courageous conversations and bias awareness workshops to build trust and psychological safety.

2. DEI Strategy & Policy Integration.

   • Developed a clear, measurable DEI roadmap tied to the organization’s mission and values.

   • Reviewed and revised hiring, promotion, and compensation practices to embed equity at every level.

3. Culture Activation & Employee Engagement.

   • Launched employee resource groups (ERGs) to elevate historically underrepresented voices.

   • Initiated regular equity audits and feedback loops to track progress and adapt strategy in real time.

The Impact.

Over the course of 12 months, the organization saw tangible and measurable improvements:

• 38% increase in diverse representation at the leadership level.

• Employee belonging scores rose by 41%, with team members reporting greater psychological safety and inclusion.

• Retention improved by 25% among BIPOC and LGBTQ+ staff, attributed to more equitable development opportunities.

More than a DEI program, the initiative catalyzed a cultural shift—redefining leadership as not only a position of power, but a platform for inclusion and advocacy.

Looking Ahead.

The organization is now expanding its DEI initiatives across regional offices and embedding inclusive leadership into performance reviews, strategic planning, and onboarding processes—ensuring long-term sustainability and accountability.

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