The County of San Diego Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) Champions are a grassroots network providing resources and opportunities to foster equity, diversity and inclusion within their teams. Collaboration across County departments enhance these efforts, making D&I Champions valuable assets to County leadership by helping achieve goals that increase equity and cultivate belonging.

Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Highlights:

Finance and General Government Group - Clerk of the Board: D&I Office Library

A dedicated space for educating, empowering, and challenging staff to embrace inclusivity and diversity. The D&I Office Library offers a selection of books, comfortable seating and a tranquil ambiance, creating an inviting atmosphere for staff to refresh and recharge.

Public Safety Group - Sheriff’s Department: Creating a Culture of Mentorship

A leadership retreat led to a three-tiered succession planning solution, including mentoring mixers, formal mentorship and a mentorship lottery. These opportunities result in higher participant motivation, skill development and access to sounding boards. Mentors benefit from enhanced understanding, knowledge recognition and self-awareness, playing a crucial role in engagement and knowledge sharing, ultimately fostering innovation and continuous improvement.

Land Use and Environment Group - Planning & Development Services: Interactive D&I Trainings at All-Hands Meeting

These trainings promote D&I awareness and unity, increasing knowledge of self and others through tasks requiring active participation. Guest speakers and valuable conversations between colleagues help cultivate a sense of belonging.

Health and Human Services Agency - Public Health Services: Monthly D&I Cultural and Social Observances Flyer

Monthly flyers advance inclusion, belonging, and cultural responsiveness, fostering workforce development, health equity, customer service and trauma-informed services. They connect staff with cultural and social observances and inform them about academic developments in public health.

D&I Champions embody, promote and encourage diversity and inclusion, furthering innovation and knowledge sharing for all.