Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) aims to ensure all individuals who contribute to the defense of the homeland can be their best selves.
As the newly appointed AFGSC chief diversity and inclusion officer (CDIO), my charge is to lead the development and implementation of a comprehensive strategy aimed at creating an environment of excellence and inclusion for all members of AFGSC.
This includes overseeing equity initiatives related to various life experiences, including socioeconomic and geographic backgrounds, education, work experience, language abilities, sexual orientation, age, race, ethnicity, spiritual perspectives, gender identity policy, and the development of a physical abilities framework.
As we move forward, my promise to you is to work with the leadership, Airmen, and the entire Striker community to develop and sustain an inclusive and equitable environment together. Also, we will investigate anomalies in the workplace policies and practices of the military and civilian sectors that could prevent equal access to opportunities and resources.
Upon identifying the root causes of these issues, your diversity and inclusion (D&I) team will devise plans to address them.
The D&I office of AFGSC is responsible for conducting a comprehensive campaign against discrimination and prejudice in the workplace. This office will identify the factors contributing to this issue and develop ways to address these problems so that all Airmen have an equal opportunity to participate in the command.
Through accountability, AFGSC can make a difference in creating an environment that values inclusivity. Leaders must commit to having conversations about racial disparities, learning about the various advantages of the diversity of thought, and creating a supportive environment where everyone is valued and heard.
I also pledge to you to offer strategic advice, guidance, and counsel to the leadership team. This includes leading critical initiatives and overseeing the execution of transformational programs and policies aligned with the mission of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). In addition, my office will oversee Leading Inclusively Virtual Experience (L.I.V.E.), Project Tuskegee, Women Leadership Symposium, Pathways to Inclusion Council, and AFGSC Barrier Analysis Working Groups.
As we continue our work of service to the nation through our collective specialties as Strikers, it’s my hope that we continue to be strong by embracing our differences. The strength of our country has always been our diversity and the talents and perspectives we all bring to the fight. It will be an honor to serve beside you.
Editor’s Note: Dr. Scott has served in the U.S. Air Force as an enlisted member and commissioned officer, a civil servant, and an adjunct instructor for several institutions of higher learning. She is executively trained in strategic DEIA with a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Human Services from Capella University. Dr. Scott received a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Adult Education and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Psychology from Northwestern State University. She completed her military studies at the Air Force Air War College and Air Command and Staff College. She has received several Air Force-level honors for her superior leadership and notable results as a change agent in quality-of-life programs.