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Diversity Leadership Society

Leaders working to close the gaps for our community's diverse populations ensuring every family has the opportunity to thrive.

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

Already a leadership donor, sign up to be a member now.

Council Members

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Diversity Leadership Society Council Co-chairs

Headshot of Dante Houston

Dante A. C. Houston, Center for Independence

Headshot of Ashley Smith

Ashley Smith, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

Photo of Tracie Sparks
Tracie Sparks, Community Volunteer

Diversity Leadership Society Council Members

David Bowles, CMRignite

Dionna Gavin, Froedtert Health

Vincent Holly, Northwestern Mutual

Samantha Maldonado, Chaska Consulting

Greg Marshall, CI Design

Devon Norwood, Baird

Johnathan Viard, Northwestern Mutual

Caleb Hutchins, Baird

Njeri Jackson, Medical College of Wisconsin

Nakeisha Payne, Southeastern Wisconsin Planning Committee

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Happenings & Impact

Diversity Leadership Society members attending a 2023 Mix & Mingle event.

Celebrating Ten Years of Diversity Leadership Society

In 2025, Diversity Leadership Society will be celebrating its 10-year anniversary.

Learn More

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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

teacher working with a group of young students

Reducing Barriers to Employment & Advancement

Supports programs that reduce barriers for individuals to have the opportunity to start stable careers.

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.