Progress Doesn’t Come from Standing Still

Two separate times today (once consulting on confidentiality protections for sexual violence survivor advocates, and the other talking about how much freedom universities actually have to set strategic goals related to representation and access under the current administration) I was reminded how difficult it is for institutions to move forward when regulatory clarity is lacking and the risks are high. Funding loss, litigation, and public scrutiny are realities weighing heavily on leaders, and as a result, we’re understandably seeing some hesitation and retreat.

Even with deep experience helping institutions bridge compliance, culture, and strategy, I’ve been feeling a little stuck myself when it comes to my own business. I’ve been wrestling with how to clearly define my work and stay true to my values, while using language that avoids triggering political or resource-based barriers for potential clients out there who are stretched thin and could really use some support in the form of extra bandwidth and an objective perspective on equal opportunity, non-discrimination, and related topics.

I’ve learned through professional and personal experiences that progress doesn’t come from standing still. It comes from dialogue, partnership, research and experimentation. I’m lucky to have trusted colleagues who help me think through tough moments, and I’m grateful I get to be that kind of partner for my clients.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or overburdened when it comes to aligning equal opportunity, access, and institutional values, or what I’m (experimentally) calling the integration of “compliance and culture,” I’d love to help and have room for one or two new clients this summer/fall. My primary services are strategic advising, external policy and process reviews, and leadership development. My goal is to help leaders reduce risk, preserve progress, and find new paths forward -- our future is too important not to.