CCEDC pledges to make changes

17-member task force will focus on ‘diversity, equity and inclusion’

UWCHLAN » The Chester County Economic Development Council has brought together 17 “thought leaders” from across the region to be part of the organization’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force. The organization has pledged organizational change, and will collaborate with the task force to create more relevant and accessible policies related to organizational process and services.

Gary Smith, president and CEO, Chester County Economic Development Council said that over the years, the council has offered an increasing number of programs for Chester County businesses that assist them with strengthening their existing workforce while providing career pathways for future workers.

“Those programs have included diversity and inclusion goals, but we know we need to do more not only with our workforce-focused programs, but all of the services we offer to the business community,” Smith said. “Research shows that making diversity and inclusion a strategic priority makes sense not only from a cultural perspective, but also from a smart business perspective when it comes to growth and improved performance.” He added that calls for social justice this year gave more immediacy to the council’s work.

The Chester County Economic Development Council’s executive council voiced support last winter for the task force. Since then, members were assembled from across a variety of backgrounds and industries. The group’s first meeting was held virtually, on Sept. 16.

Initially, the work of the task force will focus specifically on the

“Research shows that making diversity and inclusion a strategic priority makes sense not only from a cultural perspective, but also from a smart business perspective when it comes to growth and improved performance.” Gary Smith, president and CEO, Chester County Economic Development Council

Chester County Economic Development Council, according to Michael Grigalonis, COO and executive vice president for the council, “guiding us on the changes we need to make to develop a more diverse, equitable and inclusive organization.”

He added that the task force will report directly to the council’s executive committee.