The Nature Conservancy VT
June 1, 2024
The Nature Conservancy (TNC) Vermont sought to create a more inclusive and equitable environment for staff, with a focus on BIPOC and underrepresented identities, while integrating equity and justice into their conservation work. Challenges included resistance to change, friction around corporate priorities, and the need for clearer communication and actionable steps.
The Creative Discourse Group (TCDG) implemented a phased approach. Phase one involved collaborating with the internal DEIJ team, conducting interviews with marginalized staff, and designing workshops addressing implicit bias, power dynamics, and building equitable organizational culture. Surveys gathered feedback and informed priorities for future work.
The initiative resulted in significant cultural shifts within TNC Vermont and staff reported increased awareness of how their identities shape perceptions and workplace interactions. The workshop series fostered a deeper sense of connection among team members, helped build trust across diverse roles, and introduced valuable somatic practices that staff can use to navigate challenging conversations. Many participants noted a tangible cultural shift within the organization, marked by greater openness and willingness to explore difficult or uncomfortable topics. The creation of smaller “pods” facilitated more intimate discussions and strengthened relationships, ultimately boosting morale and collaboration. Additionally, staff reported feeling more prepared to integrate equity principles into both day-to-day tasks and larger, strategic initiatives. This foundation of shared learning and collective engagement lays the groundwork for sustained DEIJ impact within the organization’s conservation work.
“TCDG’s collaborative approach and clear communication resulted in a customized work plan that we adjusted and refined throughout the process. Though there is much more work to do, there is no question that our work with TCDG has improved our team’s cultural competence.”
~ Amy Kelsey, Director of Operations
The project also facilitated broader alignment with TNC’s conservation goals, clarifying a path to meaningfully integrate equity work. Staff identified and prioritized actionable steps that balanced large-scale organizational objectives with inclusive, community-driven initiatives. On the heels of this work, a new DEI team has formed and is currently developing priorities and goals focused on organizational culture and alignment with TNC’s broader DEI objectives. This newly established team will build on momentum by ensuring equity and justice remain central to both internal operations and external conservation efforts.
