In Q4 of 2022, Building Maintenance Services formed an internal DE&I Committee, with wide representation from all our office locations and divisions. The Committee is tasked with evolving and expanding our current DEI initiatives. The committee members are energized, dedicated to its mission, and ready to make a difference.
As March comes to a close, we reflect on the past two months of celebration of Black and Women’s History. This is a chance to reflect on how the efforts and bravery of past generations have paved the path to lead us to where we are today. It is an opportunity to brainstorm how our generation will continue the path forward.
Ready to Lead the Charge
At the forefront of BMS’s DE&I committee is Co-Chair Teisha Moss-McFadden. She is a bright young star of the BMS family based in Richmond, VA. She has worked in an operations accounting role for the past five years, supporting the Mid-Atlantic region. While her work is largely behind the scenes, she is a backbone of the team.
Teisha gives us some insight into what she and our other Co-Chair, Yurie Kim, set to accomplish with the Committee.
In short, Teisha and the Committee would like to continue to expand our already diverse workforce across the organization. Additionally, the team would like to expand on BMS’ community engagement to lift up underserved groups. It will also collaborate among staff with varied perspectives to generate insightful thoughts supporting change.
DE&I Co-Chair Q&A
As a successful minority woman, Teisha Moss-McFadden details her motivations and gives insights on how we can continue to improve Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the workplace.
What has been your biggest inspiration?
“My upbringing. Growing up, diverse groups were always present but not always included. I aspire to attain more than the acceptable average and advocate for family and friends to do the same- funneling the knowledge of opportunities to all interested and willing to achieve.”
What motivates you?
“Challenges motivate me as they bring opportunities to create a new path and uncover the solution. As a woman, I’ve understood every challenge is not a setback. Sometimes, overcoming an obstacle requires a new approach or out-of-the-box thinking. But challenges are meant to be conquered. I believe you get the first reward when you’ve mastered the challenge.”
What do Black History and Women’s History months mean to you?
“Receiving recognition is always wonderful. It also brings gratitude and reassurance that we are making progress. Highlighting women and black history for a month is momentous. But it’s also a reminder of the challenges we face. Throughout the year, women are consistently the face of groundbreaking change and leadership. These months’ greatest commonality is in the opportunities they afford our communities. For example, we can appreciate having informative and celebratory literature readily available, the numerous workshops created, and showcasing local businesses as pillars in the community.”
How can successful women contribute to Black and Women’s history month?
“As professionals, we can certainly contribute to Black and Women’s history months. For example, we can support and spread the word about local businesses. We can create workshops with inspirational women and engage in diverse collaborative activities. We can also support inclusiveness within the workforce. The ways to contribute are endless.”
Thank you, Teisha, for sharing your thoughts and experiences with us!