DEIA at HHS
The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), one of the largest civilian federal departments, is committed to enhancing and protecting the health and well-being of all Americans. With over 90,000 dedicated employees, HHS launched the DEIA Strategic Plan in 2022 in response to Executive Order 14035, focusing on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility. These initiatives foster an inclusive workplace and advance our mission through collaboration and innovation.
Introducing Change Stories
Leadership Change Stories embody our commitment to DEIA by highlighting the personal DEIA journeys of our leaders. These stories are not just narratives; they are powerful testimonies that underline the significance of change, affirm our leaders’ dedication, and set a vision for successful DEIA integration across HHS.
What are Change Stories?
Change Stories are heartfelt accounts from HHS leaders sharing their personal journeys and commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility (DEIA). These stories highlight the transformative impact of DEIA and reinforce our collective mission to foster an inclusive workplace.
Why are they important?
Increase transparency and authenticity: Real stories build trust and openness within our HHS family. Promote inclusion and belonging: Hearing from our leaders makes every employee feel valued. Inspire organizational progress: These narratives motivate us all to contribute to DEIA efforts.
Come back weekly to dive into these inspiring stories and be part of this transformative journey. Click on each leader’s photo to read their full narrative and get inspired to reflect on your own DEIA journey.
Meet Karen T. Comfort
Karen T. Comfort, our new Chief Diversity Officer, shares her inspiring journey from visiting her mother’s office at HHS as a child to leading DEIA programs today. Her story reflects a lifelong dedication to public service and highlights the transformative impact of DEIA at HHS.
“I take the charge of enhancing and protecting the health and well-being of all Americans personally. And it starts from within. My responsibility as the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion, and Chief Diversity Officer is to lead DEIA efforts across HHS; to engage leadership, retain talent, and foster a culture of belonging that promotes the development of each HHS employee.”
Take Action
Engaging in DEIA at HHS offers tangible benefits, including enhanced career development opportunities and a more inclusive work environment for everyone. Programs like peer-to-peer mentorship and partnerships with Employee Resource Groups, are designed to support professional growth and ensure equitable opportunities. Participating in these efforts will help to shape a culture of belonging, making HHS an even better place to work.
Want to get involved with DEIA work at HHS? Email deiastrategicplan@hhs.gov.
