Culture, diversity and inclusion

African American and Canadian Excellence employee network group

Supporting our African American and Black professionals

Our African American and Canadian Excellence (AACE) employee network group (ENG) focuses on furthering RSM’s business, diversity and inclusion objectives by actively supporting the recruitment, development and retention of talented Black and African American professionals and other minorities. It helps raise diversity awareness and inclusiveness among leaders and colleagues.

RSM is a top sponsor of the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA) and its annual convention. We send a team of RSM ambassadors to the event for networking, education and recruiting. AACE members also have access to a firm-paid membership to NABA.

Through local, regional and national NABA events, AACE members have the opportunity to network, collaborate with colleagues in the profession and foster relationships that provide opportunities for business development and career growth.

Watch the highlights from RSM's participation in the 2022 NABA convention:

Resources for racial understanding and inclusion

We’re committed to doing our part to advance racial understanding and inclusion across the firm and within our communities. To support our activities, we are sharing our internal resources for the benefit of our clients and others who want to drive meaningful change and create a more equitable future.

Plug and Play

Our Plug and Play conference brings together entrepreneurs, investors and industry thought leaders to explore the latest trends and opportunities in the world of startups. Watch this video to learn about the important role culture, diversity and inclusion plays in innovation, which is essential for both startups and established businesses:

Donnovan Maginley Making a Difference Award

About the award

This award was established in memory of our friend and a partner in RSM’s government assurance practice, Donnovan Maginley. Donnovan passed away unexpectedly in November 2018 and the award remains a way to honour his passion for pursuing excellence, focusing on his clients and team, and being a valued first-choice advisor. It also exemplifies AACE's mission of furthering RSM's business, diversity and inclusion objectives by actively supporting the recruitment, development and retention of talented Black professionals and other minorities.

2024 winner: Nicole Lindsay 

Nicole serves as the location services director in our Enterprise Support Services (ESS) practice, bringing extensive expertise in client service, diversity and inclusion, outside sales, public speaking, marketing support, event planning, and operational systems training. Leveraging her diverse skill set and enthusiasm, Nicole is dedicated to enhancing service standards within the ESS practice. She excels in fostering effective communication across different business lines and engaging with clients at all levels, from front desk interactions to strategic collaboration with executive management, to ensure the fulfillment of client needs and expectations.

In recognition of her exceptional achievements, Nicole has been awarded $5,000 to pursue personal and professional excellence. Additionally, she has chosen C.A.R.E. University to receive a $2,500 donation from the RSM US Foundation. Nicole chose this charity because of its impactful support for local youth, providing crucial resources such as early financial literacy education and programs like the D.R.E.A.M Academy for students in grades K-6. 

My motivation always stems from helping others, whether through mentoring younger professionals or supporting growth within my teams. Operating with excellence is ingrained in me by my upbringing and family values, setting a standard for those who follow. At RSM, I've had the chance to grow, develop skills, and advocate for causes like AACE, where I can amplify voices and pave the way for future generations. Contributing to meaningful change professionally and within my community makes every effort worthwhile.
Nicole Lindsay, location services director, Mishawaka office

Inclusion Starts with I: AACE

In our “Inclusion Starts with I” video series, our then-Managing Partner and CEO Joe Adams hosted candid conversations with members of our employee network groups. In this video, he talks with the national leader and other members of the AACE group.

National AACE ENG Leader

Environmental, social and governance

We strive to be the middle market leader in sustainable business practices that drive positive futures for our clients, colleagues, communities and firm.

A culture of diversity, equity and inclusion

Thousands of personalities make up RSM. Every member of our team brings unique insights and a passion for serving our middle market clients. Our inclusive workplace celebrates differences, while enabling our people to take ownership of their work and personal lives.