The third annual ThinkLA Diversity Summit in El Segundo on Nov. 14 featured a panel discussion on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) moderated by Jake Beniflah, senior marketing lecturer at Cal State Fullerton College of Business and Economics. The discussion brought together diversity-focused voices from Cal State Fullerton, Loyola Marymount University and the Freedom Forum, a nonprofit focused on First Amendment liberties. Among the panelists were Cecil Chik, Cal State Fullerton’s chief diversity officer.
“Diversity, equity and inclusion efforts are critical in fostering companies where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to thrive. It also has positive outcomes for companies that embrace this philosophy,” says Beniflah. “My purpose was to position DEI as key growth levers for companies in the 21st century. The panel discussion included the topics of enhanced innovation and creativity and improved business performance. Companies with strong DEI initiatives tend to outperform their peers financially and a diverse workforce better understands and serves diverse markets, driving customer satisfaction and loyalty.”
Other topics discussed included attracting and retaining diverse talent, social responsibility and equity, and mitigating bias and discrimination.
“DEI promotes justice and equity, helping reduce disparities in employment, education and wealth,” says Beniflah. “DEI initiatives help identify and reduce unconscious biases and discriminatory practices. Training and awareness encourage cultural sensitivity and understanding. DEI is not only the right thing to do but also a strategic imperative for creating sustainable growth, innovation and equity in both organizations and society.”
Among the more than 150 attendees at the panel discussion were representatives from ad agencies, tech companies and brand marketers from across the United States, all gathered around the goal of ensuring companies understand the importance of DEI in a multicultural environment.
Beniflah is proud of DEI being a focus at Cal State Fullerton. “We are committed to preserving and enhancing DEI inside and outside of the classroom. This event is an exemplar of how committed we are to help companies be successful in an increasingly multicultural society,” he says.
Cal State Fullerton’s College of Business and Economics is a leader in community engagement in Orange County and beyond. The college is widely recognized for its commitment to diversity, serving as a leader in educating and employing individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Its robust DEI initiatives foster relationships among students, staff, and faculty. Discover more about our connections with the community through our community engagement articles.
