---
title: DEI is not an option, it's a must
description: Trisch Smith is the Global Chief Diversity Equity and Inclusion officer of Edelman, the world’s leading global communications marketing agency.
---

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# [DEI is not an option, it's a must](https://www.upliftingimpact.com/uplifting-impact/dei-is-not-an-option-its-a-must)

 Written by [Michelle Abendroth](https://www.upliftingimpact.com/uplifting-impact/author/michelle-abendroth) | Feb 10, 2022 9:00:00 AM

Trisch Smith is the Global Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer of Edelman, the world’s leading global communications marketing agency. In her role, she oversees all diversity, equity, and inclusion, strategic planning, education, cultural development, external partnerships, and recruitment efforts to ensure Edelman's workforce reflects the increasingly diverse marketplace. She has been featured as one of the “Top 100 Most Influential Blacks in Corporate America” and one of the “Most Influential Women in Corporate America” by Savoy Magazine.

In their conversation, Justin and Trisch discuss how her family and her faith have laid the foundation that she brings to the work she does in the workplace and in her community. She shares that one of her core values revolves around inclusion and belonging, which is key to doing the work of DEI. Justin and Trisch take a look at how to start the work of DEI, and how to create accountability strategies that inspire teams and individuals within an organization. To connect with Trisch, find her on LinkedIn at: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/trisch-smith-9948777](https://www.linkedin.com/in/trisch-smith-9948777)

## Topics In This Episode

- Bridging the gap between where you are and where you want to go
- Adjusting strategies based on events of the last few years
- Answering “what does DEI mean to our organization?”
- The need for continued education of DEI trends, developments, and research
- You must know where you are to know where you are going
- The relationship between maintaining progress and accountability
- Creating metrics for accountability and progress

## Connect

- LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/trisch-smith-9948777](https://www.linkedin.com/in/trisch-smith-9948777)
- Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/trischlsmith/](https://www.instagram.com/trischlsmith/)

### Other Conversations We’ve Enjoyed

- [Intent Versus Impact](https://www.upliftingimpact.com/uplifting_impact/intent-versus-impact)
- [Creating an Environment of Transparency and Accountability](https://www.upliftingimpact.com/uplifting_impact/creating-an-environment-of-transparency-and-accountability)

[View full post](https://www.upliftingimpact.com/uplifting-impact/dei-is-not-an-option-its-a-must)

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