lessons of inclusion from the dance floor to the c-Suite
Today, the diversity, equity, and inclusion field finds itself at a crossroads. What was once embraced as essential progress toward a more representative democracy now faces significant backlash. DEI functions are being dismantled, programs are being defunded, and professionals like me are watching structures that transformed countless lives being systematically undone.
The answer, I believe, lies in the same wisdom I discovered to the beat of House Music on dance floors across Chicago 40 years ago. It was a moment in time when truly open and inclusive spaces were created. Spaces where all people could truly bring and express their authentic selves. The innovation, creativity, and community that movement created generated untold value for everyone.
My new book is my attempt to bridge the gap between the divisive rhetoric and the practical reality of building inclusive communities. Drawing on my experience as a Chief Diversity Officer and my lifelong love of House music, I want to offer a different approach—one that honors the legitimate concerns on all sides while providing concrete strategies for creating the belonging that our organizations and communities desperately need.
BOOK RELEASE: WINTER 2025
the beat must go on
WHY MUST THE BEAT GO ON?
The current political climate has polarized conversations about inclusion to the point where nuanced dialogue feels nearly impossible. On one side, there are those who see any acknowledgment of historical inequity or current disparities as divisive and discriminatory. On the other side, there are those who view any criticism of DEI approaches as evidence of racism, sexism, or other forms of bias.
Both sides have retreated into echo chambers that amplify their own perspectives while drowning out dissenting voices. What gets lost in this polarization is the practical wisdom that comes from actually doing this work—understanding both its transformative potential and its real limitations.
The dismantling isn't just a policy shift—it's personal. It represents the undoing of structures that have created pathways of opportunity for generations previously excluded. When universities like the University of Michigan eliminate their diversity offices—the very programs that enabled my husband and many of our friends to attend—it's heartbreaking for those who chose these institutions specifically for their inclusive values.
But this moment also presents an opportunity. How do we move beyond defensive debates to build bridges of understanding? How do we acknowledge that while DEI work hasn't been perfect and has had unintended consequences for some, its foundational purpose remains vital in our increasingly interconnected world?
THIS Set BACK IS STUNNING.
THE CURRENT ADMINISTRATION’S ROLL BACK OF DECADES OF PROGRESS, HAS THE DEI COMMUNITY SHAKEN TO OUR CORE. IT’S HARD TO IMAGINE GOING ON WITH THE SAME ENERGY. BUT THE WORK IS STILL THE WORK.
BUT, IT’S NOT TIME TO GIVE UP.
NOT YET. NOT EVER.
THE BOOK IS COMING… WINTER 2025
LET’S WORK TOGETHER
If you and your organization would like to continue down the path of inclusion– now is the time to double down.
workshop facilitation
Nichole’s custom workshops and team training sessions are unforgettable, formative and will leave your team equipped with what they need to move forward.
Public speaking
Wow, engage and educate your audience with a talk from Nichole. Topics range from moving forward in the midst of adversity, to making the. case for Inclusion within your organization.
ABOUT NICHOLE
LEADING FORTUNE 500’S TOWARD TRANSFORMATIVE INCLUSIVITY
Nichole Barnes Marshall is a visionary executive with over 25 years of experience leading transformative human capital and culture strategies at some of the world’s most respected global brands. She is the Founder and CEO of Marshall Matters, LLC, a management consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations build inclusive, high-performing cultures where people and business thrive together.
Nichole most recently served as the Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer at Pinterest, where she led global strategies to make the platform—and the company—more inclusive and accessible to all. Prior to that, she was Vice President and Chief Inclusion & Diversity Officer at Bath & Body Works, where she helped shape the employee experience for over 60,000 associates worldwide, driving talent development, culture transformation, and leadership accountability.
Earlier in her career, Nichole held executive roles at Aon plc, where she built and implemented the firm's first global inclusive culture framework, reinforcing its leadership in the professional services and insurance space. She also served in senior HR and DEI positions at IBM Global Services, W.W. Grainger, and the Tribune Company, gaining deep cross-industry expertise in technology, retail, media, and logistics.
Widely recognized as a thought leader in inclusive leadership and workplace culture, Nichole has been honored by Savoy Magazine as one of the Most Influential Women in Corporate America, by Black Enterprise as a Top Executive in Corporate Diversity, and by Diversity Woman Magazine as one of the Elite 100 Black Women Executives.
Outside the boardroom, Nichole is committed to community impact and serves on the boards of OIC of America, the Columbus Urban League, and United Way of Central Ohio. A sought-after speaker and mentor, she brings a passion for unlocking human potential and building environments where all voices are heard.
Nichole holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Public Administration from Western Illinois University. She lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband, Kenny Marshall, and their three children.