Nichole Bourke and Jannelle Robinson
Co-chairs, DEI&B committee
Nonotuck

At Nonotuck, diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEI&B) are not just values we embrace — they are integral to our culture. This commitment to inclusion is woven throughout the organization, with our DEI&B committee acting as a driving force in our quest for an equitable and welcoming workplace.

Co-chaired by Nichole Bourke and Jannelle Robinson, the committee provides our community with year-round opportunities to learn, discuss, and engage with thought-provoking, informative content. We offer regular well-attended events and discussions focusing on timely DEI&B topics, as well as valuable resources, such as directories of local businesses owned by underrepresented populations, event listings, and articles exploring the history and concepts behind DEI&B.

Nichole sees her role as essential to fostering understanding, stating, “People need to feel understood. To me, that is the only way change will occur.” 

Jannelle adds, “Nonotuck’s collaborative approach ensures every voice is heard. Even when discussing difficult topics, we celebrate our diverse community. I believe we can’t achieve well-being as a community without diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

In 2022, Nichole and Jannelle were recognized with the Association of Developmental Disabilities Providers’ Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging Award for their efforts.

“At Nonotuck, we believe that embracing our community’s unique perspectives enriches the work we do and ensures that every voice is valued,” says President and CEO George H. Fleischner. “Our commitment to fostering a kind and civil environment where people can learn, grow, and celebrate one another strengthens us as an organization. DEI&B is more than an initiative — it’s a commitment to shaping a more inclusive world.”

1. Why is diversity, equity, and inclusion important to your company, and how do you prioritize it within your organization?

Diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEI&B) are fundamental to Nonotuck, helping ensure every employee feels valued, heard and respected. This fosters an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives enrich our work. We prioritize DEI&B by creating regular opportunities for engagement, including guest speakers, video discussions, and educational sessions. These monthly initiatives encourage open dialogue, where employees can ask questions, share their experiences, and deepen their understanding of diverse cultures and perspectives. By continually learning from one another, we strengthen our workplace culture and improve our ability to provide compassionate, culturally responsive care to those we serve.

2. Can you share a few ways your company is working to create a welcoming environment for employees from all backgrounds? 

Nonotuck strives to create a welcoming environment by prioritizing representation and inclusion at every level. Nearly half of our workforce consists of people of color, reflecting our commitment to diversity. However, we go beyond representation by fostering an environment where all employees feel supported and valued. We achieve this through regular DEI&B training sessions, open forums for discussion, and mentorship programs that encourage growth and connection across cultural backgrounds. We also ensure that our leadership is actively engaged in these efforts, helping to promote a culture of inclusivity and belonging throughout the organization.

3. How do you encourage employees at all levels to embrace and support DEI initiatives?

At Nonotuck, we encourage employees at all levels to embrace and support DEI&B initiatives by ensuring that every employee has access to our events and discussions through statewide videoconferencing. We promote inclusivity by sending invitations to all staff for each DEI&B-related event, allowing them to engage no matter their location. Additionally, we foster a culture of learning by encouraging employees to share insights from these sessions with their peers, which often inspires more participation and enthusiasm. By creating a welcoming space for open dialogue and shared learning, we build ongoing support for our DEI&B initiatives across the organization.

4. What are some of the most rewarding outcomes you’ve seen from your company’s focus on DEI so far?

Some of the most rewarding outcomes from Nonotuck’s focus on DEI&B have been seeing employees feel safe enough to share their personal experiences. This openness reflects the success of our efforts in creating a work environment where individuals feel valued, respected, and heard. It signifies that we have cultivated a culture of trust and belonging. Additionally, it’s incredibly rewarding when employees express newfound understanding with comments like, “Wow, I never knew that,” or ask, “How can I help?” These moments demonstrate that our DEI&B initiatives are fostering awareness, empathy, and a genuine desire to contribute to a more inclusive workplace.

5. How does your leadership team stay engaged with the company’s DEI efforts, and what role do you personally play in driving these initiatives forward? 

Our leadership team actively engages with Nonotuck’s DEI&B efforts by fostering open communication and continuous learning. Leaders regularly participate in DEI&B meetings, ask thoughtful questions, and seek feedback on how they can improve inclusivity in real-life scenarios. They are dedicated to creating a safe space for dialogue and learning, ensuring that DEI&B remains a top priority across the organization.  The CEO and executive team contribute by driving these initiatives forward through collaboration, offering strategic guidance, and advocating for an inclusive culture that values every individual’s unique perspective and background, ensuring alignment with Nonotuck’s mission and values.