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In a world where representation and equal opportunities are paramount, Joshua Pierce (Tisch ‘18) stands out as a beacon of change. As the founder & CEO of The Diversity Org, Pierce is bridging the gap between underrepresented communities and corporate opportunities, ensuring that every student has a pathway to success.
The Genesis of The Diversity Org
Pierce’s journey began during his high school years in Teaneck, New Jersey, where he faced academic challenges and was surrounded by influences that threatened his future. A pivotal conversation with his barber served as a wake-up call, prompting Pierce to reevaluate his path and recognize his potential to make a difference. This realization led him to establish The Diversity Org.
Initially, The Diversity Org was founded to facilitate high school assemblies focused on unconscious bias training, with the goal of fostering equity by educating the next generation of college goers and workforce on the needs of underrepresented communities.
This was effective and inspirational work. However, during my entrepreneurial journey, I realized that although we were doing powerful work and that there was a demand for our programs, it was hard to measure the lasting impact of this.
But after measuring the sustainability of the startup’s business model, Pierce came to the conclusion that its scope was missing a large demographic that needed programs the most: students at low-income schools who couldn’t afford the startup’s programs.
This led Pierce to transition The Diversity Org from an LLC to a nonprofit, with a target audience of low-income students.
Mission and Impact
The Diversity Org's mission is clear: to expose students from marginalized backgrounds to diverse career paths, especially in industries where they are historically underrepresented. By partnering with Fortune 500 companies such as Warner Media, J.P. Morgan Chase, and Ernst & Young, the organization provides mentorship, workshops, and internships that equip students with the skills and experiences needed to excel in their chosen fields.
One of the organization's core beliefs is that many students of color are unaware of the vast array of career opportunities available to them. By showcasing these roles and providing tangible pathways, The Diversity Org aims to change perceptions and open doors.
Global Expansion and Future Endeavors
While still a student at NYU, Pierce successfully expanded The Diversity Org's operations to 15 individual schools. Under his leadership, the nonprofit has not only expanded its reach across the United States but has also ventured internationally, with initiatives in countries like India. This global expansion underscores the organization's commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion on a worldwide scale.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Joshua envisions a world where every student, regardless of their background, has access to the resources and opportunities needed to thrive. Through continuous partnerships, innovative programs, and an unwavering commitment to his mission, he aims to cultivate a generation of leaders who are as diverse as the world they will lead.
