“The reading and the conversation were fascinating. I learned a lot but also that I still have a lot to learn. I'm getting comfortable in being uncomfortable about these issues. I joined the DEI committee at my university and am doing extensive reading to continue my education in this critical area.”
Nancy Masterson-Newkirk - Parent
“We hoped to find a partner who would be equally effective in building school programs and advising the head of school and board of trustees. Our partnership with OBE and Diana Artis has allowed us to clarify and sharpen our goals and approaches; engage every constituency in the school, from students, faculty and parents to trustees and alumni; and ensure that our approach to diversity and equity work is fully aligned with the mission of the school…In fact, the true success of our work is the sheer number of voices raised in support of it. We owe so much of that success to OBE and our friend, Diana Artis.”
Paul Stellato - Head of School, Princeton Day School
“I feel so fortunate to have participated in two book clubs with Dr. Artis aimed at helping white parents navigate emotion-filled discussions about race. From the outset, Dr. Artis adeptly made parents feel comfortable and safe while sharing experiences and addressing many difficult topics and questions about racial justice and injustice. There is no shaming or preaching in her work, rather stimulating self-awareness and engagement.”
Holly Welles - Parent
“Mayo Performing Arts Center engaged Olive Branch Educators™ to conduct a series of DEI workshops with our Board of Trustees and Staff to build upon our commitment to DEI as outlined in the organization’s most recent strategic plan adopted in 2018. As we began the complicated process of understanding the complexity and depth of issues associated with DEI, our work with Olive Branch Educators proved to be enlightening, challenging and illuminating to all who participated. Diana Artis was skillful in making us comfortable when confronting sometimes difficult conversations and topics. We have made our DEI goals a priority at MPAC and we look forward a continued partnership with Olive Branch Educators®.”
Allison Larena- President and CEO , Mayo Performing Arts Center
“Dr. Artis excels at creating a safe space for the book club attendees to be vulnerable and say controversial things in the name of trying to learn and be better, more informed individuals. I thank her for her guidance.”
Amy Lignelli - Parent