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About Us
A Leader in Diversity and Inclusion Programs in Northeast Ohio
Our Mission
The Diversity Center is dedicated to eliminating bias, bigotry, and racism.
Our Vision
The Diversity Center is committed to building communities where all people are connected, respected, and valued.
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio is a leader in diversity and inclusion and has been sparking positive change in the area since 1927.
Our History
Mobilizing Citizens Against the Forces Of Violence and Exclusion
Establishing The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio
In September 2006, NCCJ of Cleveland became The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio and joined the National Federation for Just Communities (NFJC). Our mission — “to eliminate bias bigotry and racism” — remains the same, as do our programs, operations, and governance structure. Today, through our School & Youth Programming, SHIFT Consulting, and LeadDIVERSITY, we strive to reach toward our vision of creating communities where all people are connected, respected, and valued.
Promoting Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion
Our Board of Directors
2024-2025 Board of Directors
Executive Officers
- Tracie Longpre – Board Chair
- Cipriano S. Beredo, III – Past Board Chair
- Jeri Chaikin – Vice Chair (Governance)
- Sheryl King Benford – Vice Chair
- Orlando Alvarez, Jr. – Vice Chair (Strategy)
- Greg Skoda, Jr. – Vice Chair (Finance)
- Azadeh Hardiman – Vice Chair (Programs)
- Steffany Larkins – Vice Chair
- Tony Weber – Vice Chair (Marketing)
- Mark Swaim-Fox – President & CEO
Board Directors
- Allan Goldner
- Alyson Fieldman
- Anthony Battle
- Arlene Anderson
- Bonnie Kristan
- Cindy Fisher
- Gregg LeBar
- Harlin Adelman
- Jill E Hennessey
- Kate McManus Vlasek
- Rev. Kenneth W. Chalker
- Leighton McCoy
- Lisa Grdina
- Robyn Minter Smyers
- Shannon Jerse
- Uleto Fuentes
Life Directors
- Allan D. Rosskamm
- Bernard A. Finkelstein
- Cynthia Bassett
- David Hooker
- James A. Schoff
- John G. Nestor
- Hugh E. McKay, Esq.
- Larry Pollock
- Margaret W. Wong
- Michael J. Salkind
- Neal Malicky, Ph.D.
- Robert D. Gries*
- Robert J. King, Jr.
- Robert M. Wolff
- Stephen M. O'Bryan
- Stuart F. Kline
- Terry C. Stewart
- Thomas W. Adler
- William E. MacDonald, III
- William B. Sommers, Jr.
Our Community Partners
- ACLU Ohio
- Cleveland Public Theatre
- Councilmember Jenny Spencer
- Council President Blaine Griffin
- Esperanza, Inc.
- Fifth Third Bank
- Flynn Restaurant Group
- Great Lakes Science Center
- Honesty for Ohio Education
- Hyland
- The LGBT Community Center of Greater Cleveland
- Lincoln Electric
- Maltz Museum of Jewish Heritage
- Medical Mutual of Ohio
- Near West Theatre
- Neighborhood Family Practice
- Parker Hannifin
- The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
- Sparrow’s Fortune
- Thompson Hine LLP
What Our Connections Have to Say
An NFJC Member
The Diversity Center of Northeast Ohio is a member of the National Federation for Just Communities (NFJC), a network of like-minded organizations working across America to bring the values of diversity, inclusion, and social justice to our schools, workplaces, and communities.
Are You Ready to Spark Positive Change?
If you are interested in transforming mindsets at the place where you live, work, teach, or go to school, we can help!