LOS ANGELES, CA (November 29, 2023) – GHJ, a national advisory and accounting firm, is thrilled to announce that two of its Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) Cohort leaders, Derrick Coleman and Anita Wu, have been recognized as DEIA Visionaries by LA Times B2B Publishing. The LA Times recently honored them at a prestigious event, and they were featured prominently in the publication’s “DEIA Magazine.”
“Derrick and Anita have really made it their mission to bring DEIA into every aspect of GHJ’s culture in addition to their own work in the community,” said GHJ Managing Partner Tom Barry. “Their strides in the DEIA domain are nothing short of awe-inspiring, continually setting the standard for others to aspire to and follow.”
Derrick and Anita have demonstrated that DEIA is not just a buzzword, but a commitment that should be at the forefront of any successful organization. GHJ is honored to have these two outstanding leaders driving its DEIA initiatives, and their recognition by the Los Angeles Times serves as a testament to the remarkable work being done within the firm.
"At GHJ, we firmly believe that the power of diverse perspectives and voices is the lifeblood of any thriving enterprise," Tom emphasized. "This is our driving force – we exist to empower our clients and our employees to #BeMore and achieve extraordinary heights."
GHJ's dedication to DEIA is intricately interwoven into every facet of the firm's strategy, daily operations and talent development initiatives. These efforts encompass comprehensive firmwide unconscious bias training, the nurturing of employee-led cohorts designed to support women, people of color and working parents, substantial investments in programs geared towards fostering DEIA outcomes and an ongoing dialogue that strives for mutual understanding and solidarity.
GHJ stands unwavering in its commitment to championing DEIA principles within the accounting and advisory industry. As a firm, GHJ is immensely proud of the recognition that Derrick and Anita have received as DEIA Visionaries. Their dedication to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility within the accounting and advisory industry aligns perfectly with GHJ's core values. GHJ is thrilled about the enduring leadership and inspiration that they continue to infuse into the firm.
DERRICK COLEMAN
His third time being recognized, GHJ Search and Staffing Practice Leader Derrick Coleman has been at the forefront of GHJ's commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace. Along with leading GHJ’s Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) Cohort, he has been instrumental in promoting DEIA initiatives both within the firm and throughout the broader community.
Derrick is a passionate advocate for transformative hiring practices, and his unwavering commitment to diversity and equity has left an indelible mark on GHJ and beyond.
As a practice leader, Derrick consistently leads the charge in implementing inclusive hiring practices and setting a compelling example for his team and clients. His influence reverberates throughout the industry, earning him accolades for his exceptional leadership in the realm of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) – not only within GHJ but also in his broader community.
Beyond his professional achievements, Derrick is deeply entrenched in the Los Angeles nonprofit landscape. He serves as a board member at the prestigious Downtown Women's Center and proudly supports the African American Board Leadership Institute.
Derrick's impact extends far beyond boardrooms and nonprofits. He is a sought-after thought leader and vocal advocate for diverse hiring practices and inclusive workplaces. He's been a featured expert on numerous panels and a prolific author, sharing invaluable insights on DEIA practices in the recruitment and retention of top-tier talent.
Derrick's journey is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of DEIA in shaping not only careers but entire communities. With his unwavering dedication, he's forging a path towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all.[SA1]
ANITA WU
Anita Wu is a prominent leader in GHJ's Profit Participation Services Practice and stands out as a DEIA visionary. Anita's dedication to DEIA is evident in her leadership role at GHJ’s Women’s Empowerment Cohort and her impactful mentorship. She has fostered an environment of gender equity and inclusive leadership, guiding many junior colleagues in their accounting careers. Additionally, her commitment to GHJ’s #BeMore culture highlights her belief in balancing personal and professional goals, advocating for a holistic approach to career development.
An influencer in the accounting sector, Anita is known for integrating DEIA strategies into organizational practices. She has authored articles on DEIA initiatives, participated in panel discussions, and contributed to GHJ's media insights. Her efforts in advancing social change and supporting women in the workplace, predating the #MeToo movement, demonstrate her foresight and dedication to creating a more inclusive industry.
With over 25 years of auditing experience in the entertainment industry, Anita has significantly contributed to the field, particularly in profit participation audits for major entities like Walt Disney Pictures, NBC Universal, and MGM. Recognized as a Most Influential Minority CPA and Woman in Accounting, her achievements extend beyond technical expertise.
Anita's approach to leadership is holistic, emphasizing the importance of building diverse and empowered teams. Her advocacy for DEIA, combined with her professional achievements, positions her as a distinguished honoree and exemplifying her status as a DEIA visionary in the accounting profession.
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About GHJ
GHJ is a national advisory and accounting firm with employees in nearly 30 states and clients around the world. Our team of experts meet clients where they are and provide personalized service for nonprofit, food and beverage, entertainment and media and health and wellness companies. Ranked as a Top-100 Firm, 7th Fastest-Growing Firm, Top Regional Leader in the West and Best Firm to Work For by Accounting Today, GHJ is passionate about helping clients and its people #BeMore by focusing on building thriving businesses and creating a better future.
Through its affiliation with HLB International, a global network of independent professional accounting firms and business advisers, GHJ is able to partner with other top firms around the world. GHJ’s audit, tax and advisory teams leverage the HLB network to partner with its clients and give clients access to member firms in over 157 countries across the globe. GHJ has 22 partners and more than 200 staff members, who serve thousands of clients. The Firm is also a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA), the AICPA Governmental Audit Quality Center (GAQC), the California Society of CPAs and the California Association of Nonprofits (CalNonprofit).
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