Diversity Leadership Society
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United Way of Greater Milwaukee & Waukesha County

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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.

 

Diversity Leadership Society

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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

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Dante A. C. Houston, Centers for Independence

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Ashley Smith, Michael Best & Friedrich LLP

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Tracie Sparks, Community Volunteer

Diversity Leadership Society Council Members

Dionna Gavin, Girl Scouts of Wisconsin Southeast, Inc.

Caleb Hutchins, Baird

Gyldnis King, Froedtert Health 

Samantha Maldonado, Spectrum Nonprofit Services

Devon Norwood, Baird

Nikki Payne, Southeastern Wisconsin Planning Committee 

Robert Sanders, Community Volunteer

 

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Happenings & Impact

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Diversity Leadership Society Member Connect

​Join the Diversity Leadership Society Council for a networking reception at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP.

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Diversity Leadership Society Reunion

Diversity Leadership Society presents a culturally enriching outdoor gathering designed to bring our community together.

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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.

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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.

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Reducing Barriers to Employment & Advancement

Our goal: 15,000 people will be ready to start stable careers having overcome key employment barriers by 2029.

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The Linda McFerrin African American Nonprofit Leadership Award recognizes an outstanding African American nonprofit executive who has provided exemplary leadership in the community.

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Christy Brown is the 2023 recipient of the Linda McFerrin Award

Christy Brown is the 2023 Recipient of 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.

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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.