NBA Reorganizes Social Impact Efforts After DEI Chief’s Departure
Following the departure of Lesley Slaton Brown, its Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Officer, the National Basketball Association (NBA) is establishing a new sub-department focused on Social Impact and Inclusion. This strategic shift, effective June 16, will be spearheaded by Barbara Bush, daughter of former President George W. Bush,who has been promoted to Senior Vice President of Social Impact and Inclusion.
Bush, previously the league’s Vice President of Social Impact since 2023, will now report to Kathy behren, the NBA’s President of Social Responsibility and Player Programs.The restructuring aims to better integrate the NBA’s social responsibility initiatives and foster a more inclusive environment for employees and fans globally.
New Social Impact and Inclusion Department
The NBA’s internal memo announcing the change emphasized the importance of connecting colleagues to impact efforts and ensuring accessibility for fans worldwide. The league aims to create a workplace where every employee feels respected and empowered.
Did You Know? The NBA has a long history of social activism, dating back to Bill Russell’s involvement in the Civil Rights Movement.
The new department will consolidate the NBA’s and WNBA’s civic engagement and workplace inclusion efforts. This unified approach is intended to better serve stakeholders and communities, according to an NBA statement.
Barbara bush’s Role
In her previous role as Vice President of Social Impact, barbara Bush led initiatives focused on racial justice, public service, and health. Her promotion reflects the NBA’s commitment to expanding these efforts under a more cohesive structure. Since 2023, Bush has overseen programs aimed at addressing social inequalities and promoting community well-being Points of Light.
The NBA’s decision to create this new sub-department signals a renewed focus on social responsibility and inclusion, particularly in light of recent debates surrounding DEI initiatives.
DEI Chief’s Exit and Broader context
Lesley Slaton Brown’s departure as DEI chief concludes her tenure with the NBA, which began in 2023. She is moving back to the West Coast. During her time with the NBA, Brown collaborated with Chief People Officer Sabrina Ellis and team diversity leaders to implement programs focused on diverse talent recruitment and employee resource development.
Prior to joining the NBA, Brown served as Chief DEI Officer at HP starting in 2015, where she developed long-term DEI goals and strategies. Her work included inclusive talent acquisition programs and training for HP leaders HP Official News.
The NBA expressed gratitude for Brown’s contributions, acknowledging her work with teams and colleagues to foster a more inclusive workplace.
Pro Tip: Follow the NBA’s social media channels and community events to stay informed about their social impact initiatives.
DEI Under Scrutiny
The NBA’s reorganization comes amid increased scrutiny of DEI programs across various sectors.Since January, there has been a growing debate about the effectiveness and impact of DEI initiatives, with some organizations adjusting their approaches SHRM.
While some companies have reaffirmed their commitment to DEI, others have scaled back or restructured their programs in response to evolving priorities and concerns.
NBA’s Commitment to Social Responsibility
The formation of the Social Impact and Inclusion sub-department underscores the NBA’s ongoing commitment to addressing social issues and promoting inclusivity. By consolidating its efforts under a dedicated team, the league aims to enhance its impact on communities and create a more equitable environment for all stakeholders.
The NBA’s initiatives extend beyond the basketball court, encompassing a wide range of programs focused on education, health, and community development. These efforts reflect the league’s broader mission to use its platform to drive positive social change.
| Name | Title | Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Barbara Bush | Senior Vice President, Social Impact and Inclusion | Leads social impact and inclusion initiatives |
| Kathy Behren | President of Social Responsibility and Player Programs | Oversees social responsibility and player programs |
| Lesley Slaton Brown | Former Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer | Previously led DEI efforts |
Looking Ahead
The launch of the Social Impact and Inclusion sub-department marks a new chapter in the NBA’s commitment to social responsibility. With Barbara Bush at the helm,the league is poised to expand its efforts and create a lasting impact on communities around the world.
What are your thoughts on the NBA’s new Social Impact and Inclusion department? How can sports organizations best address social issues?
Evergreen Insights: The NBA’s History of social Activism
The NBA has a long and storied history of social activism, dating back to the Civil rights Movement. Players like Bill Russell and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar used their platforms to speak out against injustice and advocate for equality. In recent years, the league has taken a more active role in addressing social issues, supporting initiatives focused on racial justice, education, and community development.
The NBA’s commitment to social responsibility reflects a growing trend among professional sports leagues, which are increasingly recognizing their power to influence public opinion and drive positive change. By leveraging their platforms and resources,these leagues can play a significant role in addressing some of the most pressing social challenges of our time.
Frequently Asked Questions About the NBA’s Social Impact Initiatives
- Why is the NBA creating a Social Impact and Inclusion sub-department?
- The NBA is creating this department to better connect colleagues to impact efforts and ensure the game is accessible to fans worldwide,fostering a more inclusive workplace.
- Who will lead the NBA’s new Social Impact and Inclusion department?
- Barbara Bush,daughter of former President George W. Bush, will lead the department as Senior vice President of Social Impact and Inclusion.
- What are the goals of the NBA’s Social impact and Inclusion initiatives?
- The goals include enhancing civic engagement, promoting workplace inclusion, and better serving stakeholders and communities.
- How does the NBA define Social Impact and Inclusion?
- Social Impact and Inclusion, for the NBA, encompasses efforts in racial justice, public service, health initiatives, and creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace.
- What impact will Lesley Slaton Brown’s departure have on the NBA’s DEI efforts?
- While lesley Slaton Brown’s contributions are appreciated, the NBA is restructuring its approach with the new department, indicating a continuation and evolution of DEI-related initiatives.
- How can fans get involved with the NBA’s Social Impact programs?
- Fans can get involved by following the NBA’s social media channels, attending community events, and supporting organizations that align with the league’s social impact goals.
Share this article and join the conversation! What other steps can the NBA take to promote social impact and inclusion?