Helping Nonprofits & Smaller Businesses Improve DEI Outcomes Through Organizational Change
Our Mission
We are dedicated experts who are advancing equitable and data-driven research and practices that will positively impact outcomes for historically underserved communities.
Our Vision
Building more equitable and sustainable communities by dismantling injustices and inequities within organizations primarily serving vulnerable communities.
Our History
ISE&S was founded in 2021 to respond to the growing attention to the lack of organizational
strategy to improve organizational effectiveness by embedding equity in the workplace. ISE&S
saw this need specifically in the nonprofit sector as most compelling as small organizations in this sector often face the lack of resources to delve into developing and implementing equity
strategies. ISE&S founders assembled a founding board that included researchers in academia whose work focused on equity. Also added to the initial board were practitioners. The board is charged with developing research and resources to assist public sector and nonprofit organizations in elevating social equity to improve outcomes for historically underserved communities.
Why DEI Support Is Critical for Organizations Working with Underserved Communities
Higher Representation, Better Performance
Companies in the top quartile for gender diversity on their executive teams were 21% more likely to have above-average profitability than companies in the 4th quartile. For ethnic/cultural diversity, top quartile companies were 33% more likely to outperform on profitability. (McKinsey 2018)
Diverse Boards Drive Higher Profits
Companies with the most ethnically/culturally diverse Boards worldwide are 43% more likely to experience higher profits. (McKinsey 2018)
Enhanced Workforce
Engagement
Inclusive workforces lead to a 12% improvement in individual discretionary effort, 20% increase in intent to stay, and 50% improvement in team collaboration and commitment. (Gartner)
Meet the ISE&S Founding Board
Our board is made up of the following members:
Dr. Deborah Mohammed-Spigner
Dr. Deborah Mohammed-Spigner is a DEI and strategic planning consultant with over 25 years of experience across academia, public, and nonprofit sectors. She holds a Doctorate in Public Administration from Rutgers University and is recognized for advancing social equity, sustainability, and inclusive practices through research, leadership, and mentorship.
Dr. Aroon P. Manoharan
Dr. Aroon P. Manoharan is an Associate Professor at Suffolk University’s Sawyer Business School and Executive Director of the National Center for Public Performance. His research covers e-government, performance measurement, and strategic planning, with international projects in Rwanda, South Africa, and beyond. He holds a Ph.D. from Rutgers.
Dr. Hsin-Ching Wu
Dr. Hsin-Ching Wu is an Assistant Professor at the College of Charleston, directing the Arts and Cultural Management graduate program. Her research spans nonprofit arts management, public policy, and social equity, with a focus on diversity in cultural institutions. She holds a Ph.D. in Public Policy from UMass Boston.
Amina Sylva
Amina Sylva is a communication strategist and managing partner at CommBlaze, specializing in corporate messaging, audience engagement, and digital marketing. She supports mission-driven initiatives with clear, results-focused strategies and explores the role of AI and machine learning in advancing communications.
Dr. Lois M. Warner
Dr. Lois M. Warner is an associate teaching professor at Rutgers University–Newark’s School of Public Affairs and Administration. Formerly with the United Nations, she managed the UN Public Service Awards database and researched global public administration. She is a recipient of SPAA's Faculty Teaching and Service Awards.
Dr. Maria J. D_agostino
Dr. Maria J. D’Agostino is a Professor at John Jay College, CUNY, and Co-Director of the Initiative for Gender Equity in the Public Sector. Her research focuses on diversity, inclusion, and women’s leadership. She has worked with the NYC Gender Equity Commission and UN-GEPA, and is recognized among City & State New York’s Higher Education Power 100.
Michelle A. Nelson
Michelle Nelson is a strategic communications professional with over 20 years of experience in stakeholder engagement, change management, and marketing. She holds an M.A. in Strategic Communication and Leadership from Seton Hall University and DEI certification from USF, helping organizations navigate transformation effectively.
Dr. Sarah-Lee Boodoo
Dr. Sarah-Lee Boodoo is a business administrator with over eight years of leadership in operations management and strategic planning. She holds a Doctorate in Business Management focused on gender equity and women’s leadership, as well as an MBA and MSc in Finance. Her work advances inclusive leadership, financial stewardship, and greater representation of women in senior roles.
Bruce A. Johnson
Bruce Johnson is a consultant and higher education leader focused on strategy, evaluation, and equity. He designs inclusive educational programs and leads college and career readiness efforts. Bruce has served as an accreditation reviewer and builds strong academic partnerships. His work advances student success, institutional effectiveness, and sustainable change.
Dr. Bok Jeong
Dr. Bok Jeong is an Associate Professor at Kean University and a UN Research Fellow. He holds a Ph.D. in public affairs and focuses on nonprofit management and development. He has led planning projects for governments and NGOs. Dr. Jeong also serves on global nonprofit boards advancing equity and sustainability.
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