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Dear Reader:
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) initiatives haven’t been making headlines the way they were in past years, but proponents are still making meaningful and necessary progress behind the scenes.

The Top Four HR Investment Trends for 2024
For the third consecutive year, HR leaders cited HR technology as their top investment priority, according to a survey by Gartner, Inc.

Developing Long Term Strategies that Matter for Benefits Management
In the ever-changing healthcare landscape, it is crucial to develop sustainable long-term strategies that look beyond immediate cost savings.

What Benefits Employees Want in 2024
SHRM, the trusted authority on all things work, recently unveiled the findings of the 2024 SHRM Employee Benefits Survey, one of the longest-running annual surveys examining employee benefits trends across the U.S.

Achieving Pay Equity That Works
In today’s dynamic work environment, where job titles often mask vast differences in responsibilities and pay scales, the imperative for pay equity has never been more pressing

HOW THE MAJORITY OF SMALL BUSINESSES HAVE GROWN DESPITE LABOR CHALLENGES
Small business owners are embracing digital tools and AI/automated solutions to help their businesses run more efficiently

Despite Backlash Against DEI, Most Employees Remain Committed
Support has dipped since 2021, but over 75% still want their companies to actively combat racism

Ascend Agency and the Digital Shift: Redefining PR in the Age of Digital Magazines
As media undergoes a significant transformation with a definitive shift from print to digital platforms, Ascend Agency is playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of public relations (PR) and marketing.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in IT:
A recent report showcases progress in DEI policies while revealing a disconnect between decision-makers and employee priorities

An 'A' for DEIA Services
Easterseals Southern California helps create accessible spaces for those who need them, especially the often-misunderstood neurodivergent population

Corporate Board Diversity on the Rise in Southern California
In recent years, companies across the country have learned that diversity in the workplace and the boardroom is more than just a want, it’s a must

TOP COMPANIES with the MOST DIVERSE BOARD
L.A. Times B2B Publishing presents the most diverse blic company boards ranked by the total diversity board members. Diverse board members include those who were self-identified as a woman or ethnic minority.

DEIA VISIONARIES
We hope you enjoy reading about their experiences and backgrounds and will draw inspiration from their tireless efforts to build a more just workplace of the future.

Almaris Alonso-Claudio
Dr. Almaris Alonso-Claudio, branch chief of immunobiology at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), has significantly advanced DEIA initiatives within the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA).

Clifton W. Albright
Clifton W. Albright is a founding partner and president of Albright, Yee & Schmit, APC, where he has demonstrated exceptional leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEI&A).

Sahar ability Andrade, MB.BCH
Sahar Andrade, DEI& Inclusive leadership consultant at Sahar Consulting, LLC, is a distinguished leader in the field of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), with a career marked by her ability to bridge divides and cultivate inclusive environments across government agencies and nonprofit organizations.

Rick Benbow
Rick Benbow demonstrates exceptional leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion & accessibility (DEIA) through various innovative programs and initiatives that have significantly advanced these principles within Western Governors University (WGU) and the broader community.

Roberto C. Arnold
Roberto Arnold is a distinguished Army veteran and entrepreneur with profound commitment to community empowerment and social justice. Serving as an Army Ranger from 2004 to 2020, he honed leadership skills and a dedication to duty that have shaped his post-military career.

Maribeth Annaguey
Maribeth Annaguey has been a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) throughout her career, consistently working to create equitable opportunities within her profession and the community.

Toby Borg
Toby Borg, head of talent business ventures at Creative Artists Agency (CAA), leads global strategy and business development for top artists. Joining CAA in 2019, he brings extensive experience from PepsiCo and M7 Entertainment Group, where he managed marketing and strategic initiatives for high-profile brands and talent.

John J. Atallah
John Atallah, partner at Foley & Lardner, exemplifies a profound commitment to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) within the legal profession and beyond. His leadership in implementing diversity initiatives has transformed Foley & Lardner’s culture, setting a standard for the industry.

Aisha Bean
As Chief Diversity Officer at Cashmere, Aisha Bean leads the strategy and execution of DEI and cultural initiatives, leveraging over 18 years of experience in HR and DEI to integrate inclusion. She is the founder of Cashmere’s core values and inclusive leadership principles, which have been instrumental in the agency receiving multiple awards.

Pamela Burga
As the global diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) officer at Blizzard Entertainment, Pamela Burga has significantly advanced DEI initiatives since joining the company. In her first year, she has spearheaded internal sponsorship programs, championed multicultural networks and orchestrated BlizzCon’s Inclusion Nexus.

Valeisha Butterfield
Valeisha Butterfield, founder & CEO of SEED, is an exceptional leader whose unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) has sparked transformative change across the entertainment, tech and political sectors.

Medell Briggs-Malonson, MD
Dr. Medell Briggs-Malonson, MD, MPH, MSHS, is the chief of health equity, diversity and inclusion (HEDI) for the UCLA Health System and an associate professor of emergency medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA.

Amber Carey-Navarrete
Amber Carey-Navarrete, director of person-centered services at Easterseals Southern California, has been influential in the DEIA industry. Her transformative work at Easterseals Southern California (ESSC) has revolutionized disability services with a person-centered approach that celebrates individuality and supports personal goals.

Jamira Marilyn Burley
Jamira Marilyn Burley is a seasoned leader with 15 years of experience in driving social impact and educational initiatives. Currently serving as the worldwide strategic initiatives lead at Apple, she is responsible for enhancing educational access and fostering community engagement across 50+ countries.

Dr. Giovanna A. Brasfield
Dr. Giovanna Brasfield exemplifies outstanding leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) through her innovative programs, community outreach and dedicated training initiatives.

Derrick Coleman
Derrick Coleman, GHJ’s search and staffing practice leader, is a distinguished advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). He founded and led GHJ’s BIPOC Cohort, an employee resource group established in 2020 to support Black, Indigenous and other people of color, fostering a culture of dialogue and respect.

Austin Clements
Austin Clements exemplifies outstanding leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) through his impactful roles and initiatives.

Hayley Dickson
Hayley Dickson, founder & Wealth Management Advisor I CFP at Northwestern Mutual, a trailblazing financial advisor, made a significant impact by launching a nationwide family planning policy at Northwestern Mutual, enhancing flexibility and benefits for working mothers.

Mariana D'Andrea
Mariana D’Andrea is a dynamic leader and the chair of the Latino Employee Resource Group (ERG) at ROKU. She has spearheaded multiple events initiatives that amplify Latino voices, foster inclusion and drive meaningful engagement across the organization.

Gloria Carolina Dominguez
Gloria Carolina Dominguez, VP branch manager & Latino Community Network co-chair at City National Bank, originally from Colombia, moved to the U.S. at age eight, navigating life in a new country with limited English and no support network.

Tim Chang
Tim Chang is a partner in the firm’s Los Angeles office, specializing in business transactions, mergers and acquisitions, corporate finance, real estate, dispute resolution and cross-border wealth planning. Fluent in Chinese, he frequently assists clients with transnational transactions involving China, Taiwan, Hong Kong and the U.

Thomas Dover
Thomas Dover provides cutting-edge legal strategies focused on all areas of intellectual property, corporate transactions and advertising. His experience in the U.S.

Sonya Brooke Dreizler
Sonya Brooke Dreizler, co-founder of Choir, has blended her extensive experience in financial services with a deep commitment to advancing gender and racial equity. After achieving success in traditional financial roles, including serving as CEO of a broker dealer and RIA, she shifted to an independent consulting role in 2016.

Lee Doud
Lee Doud, vice president and head of events at JJLA, has been a transformative force in event production, significantly enhancing how the industry serves diverse audiences.

Jeffrey Erdman
Jeffrey Erdman is a senior litigation and trial attorney at Scali Rasmussen with nearly 25 years of experience in both state and federal courts in California. His litigation practice covers various business sectors, including insurance, manufacturing, service industries and real estate disputes.

Jeanell Elizabeth English
Jeanell English, with a background in industrial and labor relations from Cornell University, began her DEI career at Lockheed Martin. She quickly became known for her analytical approach and passion for DEI. At Discovery Inc.

Joshua Felix
Joshua Felix has been a key figure at Think Together since 2006, advancing from program leader to chief people officer. Think Together is a prominent provider of afterschool and expanded learning programs, dedicated to supporting underserved students and promoting educational equity.

Dr. Apollo Emeka
Dr. Apollo Emeka, founder of Apollo Strategy Group, is redefining leadership and strategy with a focus on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). His consultancy integrates diversity into the core of organizational culture, generating over $500 million in value for diverse leaders and businesses.

Dan Dumke
As senior director at Shawmut Design and Construction, Dan Dumke leads the West region’s preconstruction services, where his influence on the business is substantial.

Terrance J. Evans
Terrance J. Evans is a prominent trial lawyer and appellate expert with over 20 years of experience, achieving significant victories in multi-million-dollar cases across federal and state courts.

Terrence Mark Franklin
Terrence Franklin is widely recognized for his innovative initiatives and tireless advocacy in advancing DEI&A within the legal community and beyond.

Roberta Fitzgerald
Roberta Fitzgerald leads the Northwestern Mutual Black Caucus Council, focusing on enhancing financial literacy and empowerment within the Black community. As the network office DEI Champion in 2023 and 2024, Fitzgerald has been instrumental in integrating diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives across various operational systems.

Mika Ford
Mika Ford, as the system manager for inclusion & belonging at CommonSpirit Health, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) both within the workplace and the broader community.

Amy Freeman
Amy Freeman is the chief talent officer and co-chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Committee at Nossaman, with 30 years of experience in talent management and administrative operations. She manages all aspects of talent management at the firm, including employee benefits, recruiting, professional development and DEI initiatives.

Joseph A. Guardarrama
Joseph Guardarrama joined Kaufman Legal Group in 2011 and has since become a key figure in the firm’s governmental ethics, campaign finance and election law practices. He has advised some of California’s most influential elected officials, including U.

Stacey A. Gordon
Stacey Gordon is an award-winning advisor, author, educator and culture consultant, recognized as one of LinkedIn’s 2022 Top Voices in Gender Equity. As CEO of Rework Work, she focuses on transforming how companies inclusively recruit, hire and engage employees, fostering a sense of inclusion and belonging.

Gloria Garcia Cisneros
Gloria Garcia Cisneros, wealth manager at LourdMurray, exemplifies exceptional leadership in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility within the financial planning industry.

Benjamin Grush
Benjamin Grush is a litigation associate at Sklar Kirsh LLP, where he handles complex civil cases in both state and federal courts, including contract disputes, business torts, securities litigation and cybersecurity. At Sklar Kirsh, he has integrated his dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) into his professional work.

Demetria L Graves
Certified family law specialist Demetria Graves founded The Graves Law Firm at just 25, six months after law school. With offices in Pasadena and Beverly Hills, her firm is known for prioritizing women and minority hires, both in the law office and for her podcast team.

Dr. Shaun Harper
Dr. Shaun Harper is a leading figure in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within higher education. He is a provost professor at the University of Southern California, holding appointments in the Rossier School of Education, Marshall School of Business and Price School of Public Policy.

Joella Hopkins
Joella Hopkins, president of Branding Los Angeles, is a leading advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). Recognized by the L.A. Times DEIA 2023 Leadership Forum, she integrates DEIA values into the company’s strategic marketing and communication.

Jane Hinton
Jane Hinton is a partner at the Los Angeles office of Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, where she serves on the capital finance & real estate team. Her real estate practice is national in scope covering acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, portfolio property management, joint ventures and lending transactions.

Danilo Kawasaki
Danilo Kawasaki is the co-founder, vice president, COO and chief compliance officer of Gerber Kawasaki Wealth and Investment Management. Recognized as a top financial advisor under 40 by Investment News and one of Los Angeles Business Journal’s Leaders of Influence in 2023, he is a proud immigrant from São Paulo, Brazil, embodying the American Dream.

Dr. Royel M. Johnson
Dr. Royel M. Johnson is a leading authority on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in higher education. As a tenured professor at USC Rossier School of Education and director at the USC Race and Equity Center, he oversees the National Assessment of Collegiate Campus Climates (NACCC), a key initiative evaluating racial climates on college campuses.

Helen B, Kim
Helen B. Kim is a seasoned trial lawyer with over 30 years of experience in securities and complex commercial litigation, representing public and private companies, as well as their leadership in courts and arbitration.

Walter Kong
Walter Kong, the general manager of the Overwatch franchise at Blizzard Entertainment, has over 23 years of experience in the gaming industry, with leadership roles at Blizzard, Epic Games and Microsoft.

Jenna Knudsen
Jenna Knudsen, AIA, is the youngest managing principal in CO Architects’ 37-year history and its first female leader. Named one of the “LA 500: The Most Influential People in L.A.” by the Los Angeles Business Journal in 2023 and 2024, she has been instrumental in promoting opportunities for women in architecture, engineering and construction.

Jason Kim
Jason Kim, a litigation partner at Hunton Andrews Kurth’s Los Angeles office, specializes in high-profile cybersecurity and privacy class actions, representing global brands such as Meta Platforms Inc., Victoria’s Secret, Walmart and Verizon.

Lee Ann Kline
Lee Ann Kline began her career as a programmer at IBM, where she quickly recognized the lack of gender and racial diversity in technology. Driven to create change, she founded STEM Advantage in 2012, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing equity through education and career development in STEM fields.

Shanique A. Lewis
Shanique Lewis, senior marketing specialist at Cushman & Wakefield, has made a notable impact in the commercial real estate industry through her advocacy and mentorship, focusing on underrepresented individuals.

Monique Lashbrook
Monique Lashbrook is a dedicated member of the University of San Diego’s Knauss School of Business, Burnham-Moores Center Real Estate Committee and has actively contributed to various organizations, including the Hispanic National Bar Association, the San Diego La Raza Lawyers Association and the Chicano Federation.

Roberto Martinez
Roberto Martinez is a visionary leader committed to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) within the business community. Since 2017, as one of the first Google Digital Coaches, he has trained over 20,000 small businesses from diverse backgrounds, equipping them with vital digital skills.

D. Jason Lyon
Alitigation partner at Hahn & Hahn LLP, D. Jason Lyon has led significant initiatives, including modernizing the firm and securing national certification as a majority Women- and Minority-Owned Business.

Lana J. Manganiello
Lana J. Manganiello is a transformative leader in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) within the legal profession and beyond.

Henry Manoucheri
Henry Manoucheri, the founder, CEO and chairman of Universe Holdings, is a visionary leader who has made significant strides in both the real estate industry and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion within his company.

Michelle Mabugat
Michelle Mabugat, corporate partner at Greenberg Glusker LLP, is a distinguished leader in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), with notable achievements in law, corporate growth and community advocacy.

Rudy Lopez Negrete
Rudy Lopez Negrete, Latin branding and music agent of Creative Artists Agency (CAA), has been able to make a significant impact on the entertainment industry. Launched in 2023, CAA Latino formalizes the agency’s commitment to amplifying Latino and Hispanic representation across media and entertainment.

Mark Masliah
Mark Masliah, wealth management advisor at Northwestern Mutual, offers tailored financial planning services to young professionals, high-net-worth families and businesses. Beyond his professional role, he has made significant contributions to diversity and inclusion.

Marianne Monte
As chief people and administration officer at Shawmut Design and Construction, Marianne Monte has been a transformative leader in advancing the firm’s diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) efforts. When she joined Shawmut, the firm had 30% diversity at the entry level and 10% at the senior level.

Kelsey McCann
Kelsey McCann, chief of staff of Edelson PC, has demonstrated exceptional commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) in her role. Her dual strategy involves reforming the firm’s DEIA practices and publicly addressing diversity issues within the plaintiffs’ bar through panels, op-eds and podcasts.

Justin McCurdy
Justin McCurdy, a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) at Manhattan West, is deeply committed to educating his clients, fostering transparency and delivering focus-driven financial strategies.

Catherine Mattice
Catherine Mattice, founder & CEO of Civility Partners, Inc., is renowned for her expertise in cultivating workplaces where everyone feels respected and valued. For 15 years, her work coaching abrasive leaders and transforming toxic cultures has made a significant impact across a wide spectrum of organizations.

Kiesha Jeanette McCann
Kiesha Jeanette McCann, DEI & engagement manager at Kinecta Federal Credit Union, is dedicated to advancing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in Human Resources, drawing from a background shaped by growing up in a diverse single-parent household in Los Angeles.

Steve O'Connell
Steve O’Connell, president & CEO of California Credit Union, has dedicated the past two decades to championing credit unions as catalysts for community empowerment. Under his leadership, the credit union has seen significant progress in DEIA, with 58% of managers and 70% of the workforce identifying as non-white.

Lizbeth Nevarez
Lizbeth Nevarez, CPA, is the nonprofit tax practice leader at GHJ and a distinguished advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). As a proud Mexican American and DACA recipient, her leadership is profoundly shaped by her personal experiences, fueling her commitment to intersectional DEIA initiatives.

Ifunanya Nweke
Ifunanya Nweke, founder of Jazz Hands for Autism, has been a transformative force in empowering autistic musicians. A 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Jazz Hands for Autism provides platforms and opportunities for autistic individuals to showcase their musical talents.

Jenny Pelaez
Jenny Pelaez, partner at King & Spalding, specializes in complex commercial and class action litigation, representing clients in antitrust, securities, consumer protection and various contract and tort claims.

Codie Elaine Oliver
Codie Elaine Oliver, founder and chief creative officer of Black Love, has demonstrated exceptional leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). Black Love, a Black-owned media company, celebrates and amplifies Black love through diverse platforms including the Black Love+ app, podcast network and live events.

Nora Perez
Nora Perez, vice president and community development officer at Enterprise Bank & Trust, brings over 30 years of banking experience to her role. Since joining the bank in February 2022, she has been instrumental in advancing the bank’s community development initiatives, including affordable housing, financial education and philanthropy.

Philip I. Person
Philip Person, a labor & employment attorney at Greenberg Traurig, LLP, is a dedicated advocate for junior lawyers, especially underrepresented and first-generation attorneys.

Dr. Erika Taylor Page
Dr. Erika Taylor Page, chief DEIB & workforce advisor at Nuleep Inc., brings two decades of expertise in organizational change, strategic planning and DEIA/ESG programs across over 100 countries.

Diana Ordaz Cherrington
Diana Ordaz Cherrington, president of Multicultural Business Alliance, is a visionary leader and advocate for diversity and inclusion in the business world.

Jennifer Pi'ilani Requiro
Jennifer “Jae” Pi’ilani Requiro, vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion at AEG, has significantly advanced the company’s DEI efforts through several impactful initiatives.

Wendy Pizarro
Wendy Pizarro, chief legal officer and chief diversity officer at Calidi Biotherapeutics, is committed to incorporating historically underrepresented communities in cutting-edge clinical trials in order to advance diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

Gary L. Polk
Gary L. Polk, co-founder of the Polk Institute of Social Entrepreneurship, is a distinguished businessman, CEO, business consultant, university adjunct professor and author.

Olivier Theard
As co-office managing partner of Sheppard Mullin’s Los Angeles office and leader of the L.A. Recruiting Committee, Olivier Theard exemplifies exceptional leadership and commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).

Angela Reddock-Wright
Angela Reddock-Wright is a distinguished DEI advocate and mediator whose extensive career and diverse roles underscore her dedication to fostering inclusivity and equity.

Ajay Reían
Ajay Relan, managing partner and co-founder of Slauson & Co., has made significant strides in advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) through his influential work. As a co-founder of Slauson & Co.

Andrew H. Raines
Andrew Raines, founding partner at Raines Feldman Littrell, exemplifies a commitment to diversity and inclusion through his leadership and innovative practices. As the driving force behind the firm’s hiring and organizational strategies, he actively recruits from a broad spectrum of backgrounds, ensuring an inclusive and bias-free hiring process.

Judy Suwatanapongched
Judy Suwatanapongched, partner at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP, exemplifies outstanding leadership in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) through her work as a litigator and advocate.

Delphine Pruitt
Delphine Pruitt is vice president and business access advisor at U.S. Bank, with more than 20 years of experience in the financial services industry.

Ana Valdez
Ana Valdez, president and CEO of the Latino Donor Collaborative (LDC), has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing DEIA both within her organization and the broader community.

Marques L. Williams
Marques L. Williams is the executive director & tenant representation lead for Cushman & Wakefield in Greater Los Angeles, Orange County and the Inland Empire. He co-founded the Youth Business Alliance, which has connected over 500 professionals and raised $200K to support underserved high school students.

Natasha Wu
Natasha Wu, associate at Musick, Peeler & Garrett LLP, specializes in product liability, chemical exposure and high-stakes construction litigation.

Douglas A. Thompson
Douglas Thompson exemplifies dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) through his multifaceted efforts at Snell & Wilmer and beyond.

Sharon Lee Toji
Sharon Toji, founder of Access Communications and a leading expert in disability accessibility, has made significant contributions to the field through her work in accessible design and consulting.

Alicia Vaz
Alicia Vaz, chief diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) officer and chair of the DEI Committee at Cox, Castle & Nicholson, has been instrumental in advancing the firm’s DEI initiatives and fostering a more inclusive legal community.