image of 2022 Diversity Leadership co-chairs

Diversity Leadership Society

Leaders working to close gaps for our community’s diverse populations around the issue of barriers to employment.

Changing Lives

Diversity Leadership Society knows that change doesn’t happen alone. Together, they are supporting United Way’s Reducing Barriers to Employment & Advancement initiative. The goal is simple: Everyone deserves permanent employment with a livable wage at a workplace where they are treated with dignity and have opportunities for advancement.

The initiative is centered on three strategies: education, transportation, and involvement in the justice system.

Member Benefits

Over 700 members of Diversity Leadership Society raise over $3 million annually. You can be part of creating lasting change in our community for so many in need. In addition, you can:

Connect with dedicated, passionate individuals working together for systemic change.
Build new relationships and grow your professional network.
Attend Diversity Leadership Society special events, all focused on creating awareness and elevating the work in our community.
Celebrate powerful leaders with the Linda McFerrin African American Nonprofit Leadership Award. The award recognizes an outstanding African American nonprofit executive who has provided exemplary leadership in the community.

Become a Member Today

If your employer runs a United Way workplace campaign, please give $1,200+ through your workplace. All other donors click “Donate Now & Join” to open a new page and start your online donation. You will need to create a username and password so you can make your gift today.

Donate Now & Join

Council Members

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Diversity Leadership Society Council Co-chairs

professional headshot of Ron Adams

Ron Adams, Northwestern Mutual

Samantha Maldonado professional headshot

Samantha Maldonado, Chaska Consulting

DeVona Cottrell Wright professional headshot

DeVona Wright Cottrell, GMR Marketing

Diversity Leadership Society Council Members

Darlene Austin, Quarles

David Bowles, CMRignite

Dionna Gavin, Froedtert Health

Vincent Holly, Rockwell Automation

Dante A. C. Houston, AMN Healthcare

Greg Marshall, CI Design

Tracie Sparks, Community Volunteer

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Happenings & Impact

Photo of Michelle Nettles, Linda McFerrin, and Cory Nettles

Linda McFerrin African American Nonprofit Leadership Award

This award annually recognizes an outstanding African American nonprofit executive who has provided exemplary leadership in the community.

Learn More

Reducing Barriers to Employment & Advancement

Supports programs that reduce barriers for individuals to obtain permanent employment with a livable wage.

Learn More

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Get Involved

For questions or more information about joining the Diversity Leadership Society, please contact Diamond Herring-Rodgers at 414.263.8152 or via email.