DE&I Expert and Professional Connector: An Interview with Diamond Herring-Rodgers
Meet diamond herring-rodgers
Advocate for personal and professional growth
With experience in such notable spaces as Pepsi Beverages, Milwaukee Bucks, and Northwestern Mutual, Diamond brings a wealth of sales, marketing, and non-profit expertise to the Milwaukee community.
Diamond began her journey by earning a Bachelor’s degree in business marketing and a Master’s degree in Business Administration from Alverno College. She then continued into nonprofit management with United Way of Greater Milwaukee Waukesha County as a Loaned Executive. In 2023, she transitioned into the role of Diversity Equity and Inclusion Engagement Manager, overseeing the Diversity Leadership Society, Pride United, and a training program called Project LEAD. In this capacity, Diamond’s visionary leadership is focused on cultivating groundbreaking networking opportunities and spearheading key initiatives that will elevate diverse communities.
Diamond’s exceptional achievements were recognized with the prestigious John A. Puelicher Award in 2023. This accolade celebrates the achievements of an outstanding Loaned Executive, a testament to her remarkable dedication and Impact.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Diamond’s adventurous spirit has taken her across the globe, from studying abroad in Spain to backpacking through 15 countries in Europe. This worldly perspective enriches her approach to fostering meaningful connections within her community.
What is the best professional advice you have received?
The most valuable piece of professional advice I received was from my dad during my childhood. He advised me to learn from others' mistakes, a lesson that encouraged me to observe and discern trusted and distrusted behaviors with an open eye.
What is the best advice you could give your younger self upon beginning your career?
If I could offer advice to my younger self, I would say:
"Excel in one area you're passionate about and empower others to pursue what they love and are passionate about as well."
How can young professionals excel in the workplace?
My best advice for young professionals aiming to excel and stand out in the workplace is to boldly raise your hand and speak up, even when your voice trembles with uncertainty.
Embrace the fact that others may underestimate you or make assumptions about your value, but don't let that deter you. Approach each day with determination, pursue your goals relentlessly, and persistently show up until you achieve what you desire. Your unwavering dedication will set you apart and drive your success.
What are your best tips for those that are new to networking?
Here are some revisions for your tips:
Tip 1: Begin by taking that crucial first step—just show up. Overcoming the initial reluctance is often the biggest hurdle. Push aside any self-doubt or excuses and make the effort to attend.
Tip 2: When you're new to networking, start by engaging with at least two individuals. The first person can serve as your warm-up, helping you ease into the event. Then, focus on connecting with the person you genuinely want to build a relationship with. A friendly greeting and a firm handshake can create a meaningful and lasting impression.
What do you wish the generations ahead of you, and behind you, knew?
I wish the generations ahead of me and behind me understood that unity and collaboration make us stronger, enabling us all to reach our shared goals and aspirations.
Why is mentorship important?
Mentorship is crucial to me because it provides guidance, unlocks opportunities, and helps me navigate a career path where representation and support are often lacking.
What does being a first generation professional mean to you?
As a first-generation professional, being in this role signifies the empowerment of my family to envision new possibilities for themselves. It involves my ongoing pursuit of personal and career objectives, as well as my commitment to sharing my time, talents, and resources with others.
and finally, What do you love about Milwaukee?
I love the Fall Season. The leaves changing, cozy vibes with my family, Halloween movies, Thanksgiving!
Find Christina on LinkedIn.
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