In 2024, we utilized three pillars to drive diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Awareness and Engagement
Throughout the year, awareness and engagement efforts helped foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity within the community. Intranet, announcements, employee emails and Chatter highlighted local events and giveaways in the DMV celebrating heritage months. Additionally, the Learning and Development team curated monthly video playlists that promoted inclusivity. A diversity, equity and inclusion discussion was also facilitated for ACCESS mentees, providing a safe space for participants to share their unique perspectives and experiences.
Inclusive Culture
To cultivate an inclusive culture, we hosted both in-person and virtual sessions with the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery in February for Black History Month. Multisite celebrations for Juneteenth were coordinated in partnership with Black-owned businesses, including Sugar Plug DC and Bee J's Cookies, which have since been used for other Sandy Spring Bank celebrations. Furthering representation, the Hispanic Heritage Planning Committee engaged employees from various divisions in a virtual panel where they shared their Hispanic/Latino experiences.
Broaden Representation
Efforts to broaden representation included the creation of an employee resource group team, consisting of internal partners from all departments and divisions. This team developed the Employee Resource Group Tool Kit and launched the Employee Resource Group application and approval process. Additionally, the Bank partnered with the Montgomery County Public Schools RISE program, hosting two high school seniors who shadowed internal partners to learn about banking careers. Community engagement also extended to DuVal High School, where representatives visited for two days to share their knowledge and career journeys. We continued to support Paint Branch High School's Academy of Finance program, and we purchased graduation cords for seniors.