ACCESS Consulting Solutions

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. showed us that creating meaningful change requires both courage and commitment. Here are five powerful lessons The Diversity Movement reminds us we can learn from his life: 1?? Take action to oppose unjust power structures. Stand up against inequality and injustice in all its forms. 2?? Use your power (and privilege) to advocate for others. Amplify voices that may otherwise go unheard. 3?? Build coalitions to advance goals. Collaboration strengthens the movement for progress. 4?? Understand that change requires sacrifice. Progress often demands personal commitment and resilience. 5?? Be persistent, even when there are setbacks. Keep striving forward, no matter the challenges. Let’s honor Dr. King’s legacy by embodying these principles in our daily lives and working together to create a more just and equitable world. #MLK #CreateChange #Leadership #SocialJustice #DrKing #Equality #Persistence

University professors and students in Alabama have filed a lawsuit challenging a new state law that bans diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs at universities and restricts discussions on race and gender in classrooms. The plaintiffs, represented by the NAACP Legal Defense Fund and the ACLU of Alabama, argue that the law violates First Amendment rights by imposing viewpoint-based restrictions and discriminates against Black students by targeting race-related concepts and eliminating supportive campus spaces. https://lnkd.in/eJq7hYus This legal challenge underscores the ongoing national debate over the role of DEI programs in higher education and their impact on academic freedom and inclusivity.

In the December 2024 issue of California CPA, our Founder and Principal Consultant, Florence Holland emphasizes the importance of fostering belonging and psychological safety in the workplace. She outlines strategies such as leading by example, promoting inclusive communication, providing training, celebrating diversity, and establishing clear expectations to cultivate an environment where employees feel valued and empowered. Implementing these practices can unlock team potential, driving innovation and sustained success. Read the full article here: https://lnkd.in/eEZHEt64

"Corporate DEI programs face new challenges under heightened scrutiny. Balancing inclusion with compliance is more vital than ever. 'This reflects a pivotal moment for DEI strategies across industries.'" https://lnkd.in/gYX7S6SU

"The University of Michigan Board of Regents did not vote on whether to defund its diversity, equity and inclusion program at its final meeting of the year on Thursday, following protests on campus to keep the embattled program intact. The Board did, however, decide it will no longer require diversity statements for faculty members during hiring or promotion, a significant reposition for the university." https://lnkd.in/eMejnFrm

Working with Bridge Builders over the last seven months has been a joy. From leading two high school camps to now planning and executing our Annual Win a Wine Cellar Fundraiser it has been steady work for our board but they have rose to the occasion. It was great to raise over $20,000 in sponsorships in the Montgomery community. We still have some to go to be sure our summer program can go back to its full week residential program but I know we will get there. It's not too late to give if you are want to donate to help develop among high school students a group of future leaders who will lay aside individual, social, economic, and cultural differences and work for the benefit of all. https://lnkd.in/eeH986xW #givingtuesday #summerprograms #diversity

Working with Bridge Builders over the last seven months has been a joy. From leading two high school camps to now planning and executing our Annual Win a Wine Cellar Fundraiser it has been steady work for our board but they have rose to the occasion. It was great to raise over $20,000 in sponsorships in the Montgomery community. We still have some to go to be sure our summer program can go back to its full week residential program but I know we will get there. It's not too late to give if you are want to donate to help develop among high school students a group of future leaders who will lay aside individual, social, economic, and cultural differences and work for the benefit of all. https://lnkd.in/eeH986xW #givingtuesday #summerprograms #diversity

“The changes, confirmed by Walmart on Monday, are sweeping and include everything from not renewing a five-year commitment for an equity racial center set up in 2020 after the police killing of George Floyd, to pulling out of a prominent gay rights index. And when it comes to race or gender, Walmart won't be giving priority treatment to suppliers.” https://lnkd.in/eDi3FQgF

It’s been a busy couple of weeks for ACCESS Consulting Solutions! I had the incredible opportunity to contribute to the South Carolina Association of CPAs (SCACPA) through a keynote address, a workshop, and a luncheon presentation. It was an honor to connect with both the newest CPAs and aspiring accounting students! ? Keynote #1: “Striving for Excellence: Turning ‘Good, Better, Best’ into Your Professional Compass” I shared how the acronym BEST—Build, Embrace, Serve, and Take Initiative—can guide new CPAs from “good” to “better” and ultimately to their “best.” Grounded in the quote, “Good, better, best. Never let it rest. Until your good is better, and your better is best,” this message was a call to continuously improve, act with integrity, and seize opportunities. ? Workshop: “Confidence: The Key to Unlocking Your Potential” For scholarship students, I led an interactive workshop on building confidence as a professional. We explored practical strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing self-worth, and communicating effectively to showcase their unique talents. Confidence is a game-changer, and I’m grateful to have had the chance to help these students step boldly into their futures. ? Keynote #2: “Personal Branding: Your Unique Advantage” At the scholarship luncheon, I spoke about the importance of personal branding—encouraging students to embrace authenticity, define their values, and leverage their strengths to create a lasting professional identity. Thank you, SCACPA, for hosting such an impactful series of events! I’m inspired by the bright futures of these students and the promise they bring to our profession. #SCACPA #BeTheBEST #LeadershipDevelopment #PersonalBranding #ConfidenceBuilding #FutureCPAs #AccountingProfession

Be helpful today. Turn the tv off! Go to bed! Workout! Ground rules for conversations - find common ground. Today is a day for some filled with anxiety - because yes it is out of our control. However let’s stay focus on our own mental health and what is best for us to get through today, tomorrow, this week… Adam Grant shares tips for navigating Election Day conversations https://lnkd.in/e5kPdaj8