Become a Certified Change Agent in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
What’s on this page…
- What is Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)?
- Why is DEI important for a business?
- What is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Change Agent?
- Why should I become a DEI Corporate Change Agent?
- How do I become a Certified Change Agent in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)?
- View Certification Program Options
- Start Your Program Application
What is Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)?
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is a concept that refers to promoting a workplace culture where people of different races, genders, ethnicities, sexual orientations, religions, abilities, and other backgrounds are valued and respected. It is a proactive approach that aims to create a culture of inclusivity, belonging, and equal opportunities for everyone.
Why is DEI important for a business?
Focusing on DEI is important for a company because it leads to a range of benefits:
- Helps attract and retain a diverse pool of talent, which brings different perspectives and experiences to the table.
- Promotes innovation and creativity by allowing for a variety of ideas and solutions.
- Helps to build stronger relationships with customers and clients who appreciate diverse representation.
- Leads to a more socially responsible and ethical company culture that can have a positive impact on society
What is a Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Change Agent?
A Change Agent focused on DEI is someone who works within an organization to help promote and implement diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. They are responsible for identifying opportunities for improvement, creating plans and strategies to increase DEI awareness, and working with leaders to ensure that DEI is prioritized in all aspects of the organization. They may also provide training and coaching to employees to help them understand the importance of DEI and how they can contribute to a more inclusive workplace.
Why should I become a DEI Corporate Change Agent?
If you’re passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion and want to make a difference in your workplace, becoming a certified change agent in DEI could be the right path for you. Here are five reasons why you should consider this:
- Gain a deeper understanding of DEI principles and best practices
- Develop strategies and solutions to address DEI challenges in your workplace
- Become a thought leader and advocate for DEI initiatives in your organization
- Help foster a more inclusive and welcoming workplace culture
- Advance your career and become a more valuable asset to any company committed to DEI
How do I become a Certified Change Agent in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI)?
To become a certified change agent focused on Diversity, Equity & Inclusion through the Council for Corporate Transformation, individuals can follow a simple three-step process.
Step 1. Select Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as your area of focus.
Step 2. Choose your certification program option. Choose from either the 12-week general certification program, which is self-guided, or the 24-week Advanced Certification program, which includes more in-depth content and personalized coaching sessions.
Step 3. Submit your program application, which includes indicating your desire and goals for wanting to be trained in this area, as well as an interview with a program manager to ensure student and program fit. Application fees are waived for members of the Council for Corporate Transformation.
By completing this program, individuals can gain the knowledge and skills needed to become effective change agents in their organizations, driving transformative change and making a positive impact on the company and overall performance.
View Certification Program Options
Advanced Certification Program
General Certification Program
The 12-week Change Agent Leadership Training for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) aims to empower participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to drive transformative change in their organization’s approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through a comprehensive curriculum, participants will explore foundational concepts of DEI, develop strategies for assessing organizational needs, and learn practical techniques for implementing and sustaining change initiatives. By the end of the program, participants will be equipped to lead DEI efforts effectively and foster a more inclusive workplace culture.
Key Program Outcomes:
- Gain a deep understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion principles
- Assess organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion needs
- Develop a clear vision and plan for DEI transformation
- Build stakeholder support and effectively communicate DEI initiatives
- Lead change efforts, manage resistance, and foster accountability in DEI initiatives
- Measure the success of DEI efforts and make adjustments as needed
- Define the role of a change agent in driving DEI transformation
- Influence stakeholders, build relationships, and overcome resistance in DEI initiatives
- Successfully implement and sustain DEI change initiatives
Program Schedule
Weeks 1-2: Understanding DEI Fundamentals and Change Management
- Participants will explore the foundational principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion, alongside key concepts in change management to prepare for driving transformative change.
Weeks 3-4: Assessing Organizational DEI Needs and Developing a Vision
- Learn strategies for assessing organizational diversity, equity, and inclusion needs and develop a clear vision for DEI transformation.
Weeks 5-6: Leading DEI Implementation and Sustaining Change
- Focus on developing and implementing detailed plans for DEI initiatives, managing risks, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement in DEI efforts.
Weeks 7-8: Change Agent Leadership and Relationship Building in DEI
- Cultivate essential leadership skills for driving DEI transformation and learn strategies for building relationships and influencing stakeholders in DEI initiatives.
Weeks 9-10: Overcoming Resistance and Addressing Challenges in DEI Initiatives
- Participants will explore techniques for addressing resistance, managing skepticism, and overcoming challenges in implementing DEI initiatives.
Weeks 11-12: Final Project and Presentation
- Participants will apply their learning to develop a comprehensive DEI change management plan for their organization, present their projects, and receive feedback for successful implementation.
Upon completion of the program, participants will emerge as effective change agents equipped with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to drive meaningful diversity, equity, and inclusion transformation within their organizations. They will play a vital role in fostering a more inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and promotes equity and inclusion for all employees.
Advanced Certification Program
The Advanced Certification Program is an extended 24-week learning experience, providing participants with ample time to implement lessons effectively in their workplaces and receive feedback from peers and experts within The Council. This program builds upon the content covered in the General Certification Program, and will also delving deeper into the following topics:
- Intersectionality and Allyship
- Employee Resource Groups
- Inclusive Talent Management
- Inclusive Communication
Throughout the program, participants will engage in weekly coaching sessions aimed at refining their personal leadership styles and effectiveness. These sessions will offer tailored guidance to navigate the complexities of driving change within organizations.
In addition to coaching, participants will have access to an online community where they can connect with peers, share insights, and seek support throughout the program.
Overall, the Advanced Certification Program provides a comprehensive and immersive learning journey, equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to lead meaningful DEI change initiatives within their organizations.
