Meet the Associations North Diversity and Inclusion Program 2020 Cohort

The Associations North Diversity & Inclusion (ANDI) Leadership Program is back in 2020 with a new cohort of outstanding participants. Different than a topical diversity and inclusion training, the ANDI program is designed to provide a leadership experience that will fully engage diverse members of the association community.

Katie Campbell, 2020 ANDI participant, explains, “Underrepresented voices [should] be heard loudly and clearly in all matters, not just those pertaining to diversity and inclusion.”

The 2020 ANDI participants bring an incredible passion for leadership and a clear understanding of why this work is important in associations. “While we have made strides in diversity and inclusion efforts, a lot more could be done,” states Lucy Persaud Samaroo, 2020 ANDI participant.

“The changing landscape of our population requires that associations are in sync with its members.” In fact, Minnesota has seen a 29% growth in its population of color since 2010, making it the 9th highest percentage growth in the country, according to Minnesota Compass.

Research has also shown that diversity improves business practices and outcomes. Toma Ossian, 2020 ANDI participant, echoes that research, stating, “Shifting our mindsets to the idea that our differences make us stronger and contribute to richer experiences and higher productivity is fundamental in breaking the existing stereotypes and prejudices that permeate our lives.”

Impressed? Meet the 2020 cohort!

Katie Campbell Katie is a Communications Specialist with the Professional Liability Underwriting Society (PLUS). She manages emails, social media, the PLUS Blog, the PLUS Journal, and more. Katie enjoys using her writing skills to connect with others.

One thing I am most proud of: My improvement in drawing in the past few years (I draw as a hobby!).

To unplug, I like to do something creative, like draw or crochet, while watching Star Trek with my partner.

Michael Hernandez Michael began at Meet Minneapolis in 2001 as part of a job shadow program. He now manages the visitor center at 5th Street and Nicollet and is involved in several local organizations, including the National Concierge Association.

One thing I am most proud of: My involvement in sister city programs. I’ve had the opportunity of working with the Saint Paul/Manzanillo, Colima Mexico Sister City Committee as well as the Minneapolis/Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico Sister City Committee.

To unplug, I enjoy taking care of my car. I love to hang out in the garage and work under the hood while listening to music.

Margaux Meyer Margaux works at Ewald Consulting, where she works with clients as an associate account executive and serves on the technology management team. Prior to Ewald, she worked as a paralegal in Montana. Margaux is a graduate of Truman State University with a degree in political science.

Toma Ossian Toma is the Project and Communications Manager at Global Management Partners, LLC. She embarked on a career in associations in February of 2015 after moving from Moscow to start a new life in the United States.

One thing I am most proud of: My family. I have a wonderful husband and two lovely children: Sofia (2 ½) and Alexei (Born 12/30/19!).

To unplug, I listen to audiobooks, dance, walk my dog, and watch basketball.

Programs.

Lucy Persaud Samaroo Lucy has been with the American Academy of Neurology since 2001 and oversees programs and operations relating to graduate medical education, including the Resident, Clerkship, Program Director, and Medical Student Diversity Leadership

One thing I am most proud of: My three kids.

To unplug, I aspire to read but with three kids that can be challenging!

To learn more about the ANDI program, visit: associationsnorth.com/page/ANDI

THANK YOU! Associations North Diversity & Leadership Program Sponsors

Association Development Services Electrical Association Elevate Management Company Ewald Consulting Global Management Partners, LLC Housing First Minnesota LeadingAge Minnesota Management HQ Marine Retailers Association of the Americas Minneapolis Area REALTORS® Minnesota Hospital Association Professional Liability Underwriting Society Synergos Association Management Company