Government services provider Maximus has tapped socio-cultural and educational anthropologist Arvenita Washington Cherry to lead the company’s diversity, equity and inclusion, or DE&I, program.
Cherry, who has a doctorate degree in anthropology from American University, will focus on furthering the company’s efforts in DE&I by identifying opportunities to make improvements. She will also engage with employees and management to capture their sentiments about the company’s culture, while working with local leaders and community organizations that seek to bring attention to social justice, human rights, civil rights, equity and inclusion.
“We are entrusted to assist some of the most vulnerable individuals every day, regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, politics, health or economic status, or any other characteristic,” said CEO and President Bruce Caswell. “To truly be successful in achieving this, our employees must reflect the diverse communities that we serve,” he said.
Madison West, senior director of corporate responsibility, investor relations and communications, leads the company’s Environmental, Social, and Governance initiative and will collaborate with Cherry on programs that foster a diverse and inclusive work environment.
Cherry said she’s excited to join the team and to be “continuing to leverage diversity, equity, and inclusion as key elements for growth and leadership within the company.”
“I look forward to working across the company to develop a culture that reflects the diverse perspectives of our employees,” she added.