Diversity and Inclusion: A Business Imperative and Core Value
Diversity is essential to effectively deliver on our mission.— Mathematica President and Chief Executive Officer Paul Decker
Mathematica is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion as one of our core values. Building a welcoming and supportive culture that draws on the individual strengths of employees from different ethnic backgrounds, cultures, lifestyles, abilities, and experiences is key to our success. Our research is more robust because it is informed by a variety of diverse perspectives, and our mission to improve societal well-being is strengthened by greater understanding of issues and challenges facing the populations we serve.
Mathematica's ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion is woven into our everyday actions, policies, and practices. We are dedicated to maintaining a work environment in which everyone is treated with respect and dignity. We continually strive to foster a professional and collegial atmosphere that promotes equal employment opportunities and values the contributions of each staff member.
Leadership Support for Diversity and Inclusion
Mathematica senior management actively supports initiatives to promote staff diversity and inclusion, community involvement, and a work environment that encourages all employees to pursue their professional ambitions. Our Diversity Council—which includes staff across levels, focus areas, and geographical locations—works with senior management to develop activities that foster awareness and understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion at Mathematica and in the policy research field. We view knowledge of diversity and inclusion issues as an essential leadership skill for all employees. Our board of directors is regularly updated and engaged on diversity and inclusion initiatives.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives at Mathematica
Efforts to build a diverse corporate culture are reflected in our summer fellowship program, targeted recruitment efforts, and visa sponsorship. We support career advancement for all employees through our tuition assistance program, as well as on-site training, including skills improvement and development opportunities. We also are partnering with the Annie E. Casey Foundation on its Expanding the Bench initiative, which is intended to increase the number of historically underrepresented minority researchers and evaluators. This partnership creates opportunities for scholars enrolled in the foundation’s Leaders in Equitable Evaluation and Diversity program to serve on Mathematica’s evaluation project teams.
External Recognition of Mathematica as a Diversity Champion
The Human Resources Management Association has twice recognized Mathematica’s accomplishments by awarding us the Excellence in Diversity Award. Criteria for this award included evidence of support for diversity initiatives from top management, a diverse culture of inclusion, involvement in the community, and respect for and commitment to sustaining a diverse organizational culture.