A sense of belonging: Darcy Wilson-Jones, partner

We can all strive to better understand other cultures and communities. We can all become comfortable with being uncomfortable. Transformative change does not happen without this, combined with positive intent and empathy.

I became involved with the firm’s employee network groups (ENGs) for all of the obvious reasons. I am an Afro-Latina (AACE, ¡HOLA!, Multicultural), a woman of faith (STAR, Interfaith), a mother of three (Family First) and the spouse of a retired Navy corpsman (VALOR), and I cherish the opportunity to engage in meaningful events and conversations with my colleagues.

It is easier to be authentic in environments with people that share something in common and that sense of belonging is one of the most valuable aspects of being part of an ENG . I have felt a sense of belonging as a member of RSM’s ENGs that I’ve never felt at any other time in my career. This is what inspired me to become active in CDI initiatives—in order to help others experience this same feeling. True belonging only comes when we can be ourselves.

One of the areas in which I have always been involved, but as a result of my ENG involvement am very passionate about, is recruiting. I am very active in recruiting and think it is very important for our candidates to see people who look like them in leadership positions at our firm. I believe it shows them that they too can reach their full potential at RSM.