Armstrong Teasdale issued the following announcement on Mar. 10.
Armstrong Teasdale announces the addition of Sonji Young as Vice President of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI). An emerging leader in the field of DEI, she is responsible for implementing Armstrong Teasdale’s DEI strategy across the firm.
In January 2020, Armstrong Teasdale outlined six strategic goals that would lead the firm into the future – one of which centers on promoting diversity, inclusion and equitable treatment firmwide. The creation of a dedicated DEI department in November 2020 echoes the firm’s investment in related efforts.
Sonji’s addition to the team will significantly strengthen our ability to embed diversity, equity and inclusion throughout the firm’s culture,” said Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) Meshach Rhoades. “These are core values to the firm, and I’m ecstatic she has joined the firm and look forward to working with her to further them.”
Young has guided DEI strategies for a number of notable Fortune 500 companies, including the United States’ largest semiconductor manufacturer. In her work, she has overseen recruitment, retention and advancement efforts aiming to foster a more inclusive workplace in industries ranging from tech to health care and government.
At Armstrong Teasdale, Young leads rollout of DEI-related training and programming, provides leadership to employee resource groups and affinity groups, and directs a targeted and intentional approach to diversity recruiting, retention and advancement at all levels. Reporting to the CDO, she serves as a thought leader and trusted adviser, raising awareness and providing guidance to each department and practice group within the firm on best practices and alignment with the firm’s inclusion priorities and goals.
An avid philanthropist, Young volunteers with and supports representation of women in technology, youth development and women’s health. She is also the founder of About Her Business, a podcast and networking community of women entrepreneurs across the United States. In addition, she channels her passion for public speaking and leadership development through a digital learning series called The Wisdom Within.
Original source can be found here.