Announcing the DEI Ambassadors program

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) has been at the forefront of IREM for a long time, and now the DEI Advisory Council is taking it even further with the introduction of a new program. DEI Ambassadors is a groundbreaking initiative designed to amplify IREM’s commitment to fostering a welcoming environment that continues to embrace DEI, as outlined in our DEI Strategy.

The DEI Ambassadors program is open to any IREM member in a leadership role with their local chapter. Each month, the DEI initiatives team at IREM HQ will facilitate video calls for these DEI champions to share resources, gain ideas for events and activities, and expand their national network. The program is completely free and voluntary: you can participate as often as you like.

Lindsay Bonilla, CPM^®, CCRM

Lindsay Bonilla, CPM^®, CCRM, 2024 DEI Advisory Council chair, says the program is a long time coming. “The Advisory Council has been working to develop this program since 2022. We formed an exploratory subcommittee to design it, then launched a pilot program in 2023 with a small number of chapters,” Bonilla said. “We’re excited to offer it nationwide in 2024.”

Taking action

Participants in the DEI Ambassadors program will be empowered to take meaningful action, helping to further the climate of inclusion at IREM. Those actions might include:

• Chapter engagement. Ambassadors are expected to meet with their respective chapters to introduce the program’s purpose and illustrate how they can actively contribute to DEI initiatives.
• Knowledge sharing. A cornerstone of the program involves sharing knowledge of programs, initiatives, and strategies different chapters are taking across the nation. Ambassadors will share best practices and create a library of successful initiatives other chapters can build on.
• Building networks. By participating in the monthly calls, Ambassadors will create a network of DEI leaders and a community of support. These connections will help chapters be more successful in their DEI efforts and expand the Ambassadors’ personal networks.
• Facilitating conversations. One of the program’s highlights is the encouragement of open and courageous discussions. Ambassadors will be encouraged to initiate important dialogues on DEI matters, promoting community and mutual understanding.
• Reporting and refinement. The DEI Advisory Council will ask Ambassadors for their feedback about the program and IREM’s DEI strategy in general. “We want to hear the Ambassadors’ insights into what is working well and what needs improvement,” says Bonilla. “This feedback loop helps build and refine strategies and initiatives.”

Personal benefit

Participation in the DEI Ambassadors program has many benefits, creating a reciprocal relationship between Ambassadors and IREM. Benefits include:

• Recognition: Ambassadors receive well-deserved recognition from both their peers and IREM HQ. A notable highlight is an acknowledgment during the 2024 DEI Reception at the IREM Global Summit in Indianapolis.
• Personal and professional fulfillment: The program also offers a deep sense of personal and professional fulfillment. Ambassadors play a vital role in furthering IREM’s DEI efforts, contributing to positive change within the industry.
• Skills development: Ambassadors will gain practical skills and valuable experience in leadership, facilitation, and organizational DEI practices.
• Networking opportunities: The program facilitates networking with IREM colleagues nationwide, creating connections that transcend geographical boundaries. This interconnectedness strengthens the collective resolve to drive DEI initiatives forward.

As the DEI Ambassadors program continues to evolve and expand, it’s poised to leave a mark on the industry, fostering a future where diversity isn’t just an aspiration but a lived reality. A full schedule of DEI Ambassador meetings for 2024 is on this page, and more information can be found on the IREM website. To join the DEI Ambassadors program, email us at diversity@irem.org. Once we receive your email and confirm your active membership, we’ll email you a calendar invitation for the year’s meetings.