Social Sharing
We believe — and results show — that our team is stronger, our work is better and our impact is greater when we amplify different voices, viewpoints and perspectives. There is no place in our firm or our profession for bias or inequity, and we are doing the work to drive change.
Our responsibility as a design firm is to help create equal and fair pathways to success for everyone. We do that through the equitable solutions we create and by championing an inclusive environment within our firm every day, in every way.
We’ve made noteworthy progress on this long, complex journey, and we still have a long way to go.
Testimonials
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DEI is not a “nice to have,” it's truly a business imperative. We recognize the importance and value of continuously diversifying our workforce, creating equitable practices and maintaining an environment where all feel welcome and heard. This is why we work to ensure that DEI is embedded in every part of our business.
Sharla Toller Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion -
Our CannonDesign family celebrates diversity, equity and inclusion within every role and opportunity. Change occurs when we create community, act with allyship, leverage individual perspectives and use our voices to be champions for all.
Brad Lukanic, AIA CEO
Our approach
Our Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Strategic Framework is both a vision and a plan for how we create a more inclusive workplace. It shapes our actions to open pathways into the profession, foster a genuine sense of belonging and expand opportunities for all employees — not only within our firm, but also in the cities where we live and work. Its organized around five areas of impact.
Our words in action
Our journey to building a more inclusive workplace is intentional, continuous and multifaceted. We’re committed to actions that combat inequity, unify employees, integrate DEI practices into standard business operations and hold us accountable for tracking progress. Here’s a snapshot of a few initiatives underway.
National Organization of Minority Architects (NOMA) / We were one of 13 corporate champions in NOMA's inaugural President's Circle, working with NOMA to enhance the diversity within our ranks as a profession. We also support the organization's national conference.
Core Schools Initiative / Our Core Schools Initiative is focused on deepening our relationship with various schools. Howard University and Morgan State University, both historically Black universities, are among the schools we partner with and who we believe share in our commitment to diversify our industry.
Inclusive Partner Program / Our Inclusive Partner Program strengthens connections with small businesses through collaboration, professional development and knowledge sharing, culminating in the 12-week CannonDesign Collective — an interactive experience that builds lasting relationships and drives mutual growth.
DEI Courses and Training / Our teammates engage in training on topics such as allyship, generational differences and intersectionality, while our people leaders also participate in sessions on pronouns and inclusive leadership.
Licensure Support Groups / We offer support groups for employees seeking licensure, an initiative that we anticipate will contribute to increased diversity within our architecture and engineering teams.
Employee Resource Groups
Our Employee Resource Groups provide a platform for our teammates to network with each other, celebrate their identities and experiences, and create enhanced visibility within our firm.
- Women@CannonDesign exists to advance the success of women through networking, mentoring and development opportunities, and for engaging allies to help amplify women’s voices within our firm and in the communities we serve.
- LGBTQ+ ERG aims to create an open and safe space for lesbian, bisexual, gay, transgender and queer+ employees and allies to meet, network and grow together as a CannonDesign community.
- PRISM comprises individuals from underrepresented backgrounds and allies, providing a safe space that recognizes racial and cultural differences and similarities, fosters meaningful connections and affirms voices.
- Our Veterans ERG provides a supportive and collaborative community for veteran employees and allies, fostering their professional growth, well-being and integration within CannonDesign.
Testimonials
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I am encouraged to see the continuing shift in mindset surrounding DEI topics within the firm. By creating a space for conversation, educating about the "why" behind things, inviting new ideas and providing fair opportunity, the firm is helping to elevate the sense of belonging for all.
Snehal Daliya Associate, Mumbai Office -
After a full year of participation in CannonDesign’s PRISM ERG, I’ve learned that an important part of being human is our desire to be heard and seen regardless of age, gender or race. When I am included in a solution, I feel truly engaged. When my voice is heard and respected, I want to contribute even more. What's even more magical is that when we engage with clients on a human level, they want to work with us for life.
Jan Gao Vice President, Blue Cottage of CannonDesign -
I am fortunate to live and work in a vibrant and multicultural environment, surrounded by many voices. CannonDesign is committed to integrating those voices as well as the broader concepts of diversity, equity and inclusion into the core of the business, and views this as the lens through which to view our work.
Marsha Spencer Associate Vice President, Toronto Office
