Eric McGriff, chief risk officer at 36th Street Capital, learned early in his career that some of the best ideas often come from people who are not the loudest voices in the room. A thoughtful question or a unique perspective, he has found, can completely change how an entire team approaches a difficult challenge together.

“Inclusion, to me, is about creating an environment where everyone feels valued, heard and empowered to contribute,” McGriff says. “When people know they belong, organizations benefit from far better ideas, stronger teams and much better outcomes overall.”

McGriff’s goal is to help create meaningful opportunities for diverse talent to thrive, believing leaders carry the responsibility of ensuring everyone has the chance to contribute, grow and succeed, regardless of how quietly they tend to speak up.