Welcoming Environment® Committee

A Welcoming Environment® is defined as a sense of belonging and connectedness that allows individuals to be authentic and feel respected and supported in opportunities and interactions.

The Welcoming Environment (WE) Committee is not just about words but about action. The committee is committed to empowering the association community and its stakeholders to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion work. We strive to foster safe and brave spaces through advisory groups, provide leading education and resources, and advocate for DEI champions. Our committee charges are a testament to our commitment to supporting and growing the communities we serve and hold us accountable for moving forward with action. 

The Committee

• Develops and provides leading DEI education and resources via the Welcoming Environment Resource Center.
• Gathers and organizes industry-specific resources (medical and non-medical, operational and strategic).
• Leads DEI conversations and initiatives within the association.
• Equips staff to effectively champion DEI initiatives within their association.
• Integrates DEI principles into all AF events and member engagement activities.
• Creates and maintains safe and brave spaces within the AF community through the work of WE advisory groups.
• Share valuable insights from WE Organizational award nominees with the AF community and beyond.
• Supports and promotes DEI champions within the association and beyond.

These Opportunities Are Recommended for Members Who

• Have diversity, equity, and inclusion training or background 
• Are passionate about increasing diversity and inclusion within Association Forum 

Time Commitment

• Monthly committee meetings
• Participation in conference calls and sub-committee meetings as necessary
• Act as WE Ambassadors at programs and events when available 

Anjali Potdar, 
Cody Czmyr
Debbie Trueblood, MSW FASAE IOM CAE
Gonzo Schexnayder, CAE, UXMC
Jonathan Adams, CAE
Jose Marroquin, 
Maisha Mou, Student
Nicola Mohan, MSW
Samantha Mazzola, MBA
Samyuktha Neeraja, MPH, CAE
Sharifa Akter Nisheta, Masters student