Strategizing for Workplace Culture: Developing and Introducing a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Road Map

Organizations are familiar with developing a strategic plan to focus their work on achieving their mission and vision. A diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) road map, aligned with organizational values of DEI, is a strategic plan that defines DEI in your work: where you are starting, where you want to end up, and how you are going to get there. Washington Sea Grant (WSG) has developed a 10-year road map that includes 13 ambitious, but achievable goals that are aligned with tangible strategies and expected outcomes. The road map goals range in specificity; examples include “WSG is welcome and inclusive” and “WSG professional development and fellowship programs prepare the next generation of decision-makers and environmental professionals that is reflective of diverse populations.” Getting buy-in, support, and active participation of all organizational staff and leadership is key to the successful implementation of shifting workplace culture with a DEI road map. Continuous assessment and evaluation of change is essential to measuring progress and attaining road map goals. We will introduce our DEI road map goals, provide example strategies and outcomes, and share lessons learned as we developed and introduced our DEI road map.