Unity in Diversity: Intersectional Insights on LGBTQ+ Inclusion in the Workplace

Join us for an insightful and empowering session as we delve into the world of LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace. In this talk, we will explore the concept of intersectionality and its profound impact on the LGBTQ+ community.Discover how embracing diversity fosters a vibrant and thriving professional environment that benefits employees, organizations, and society as a whole. Vizient employees will share their experiences and how this highlights personal and professional journeys within LGBTQ+ inclusion.

Michael DeSimone

Michael DeSimone (he/him) is the Director of Strategic Sourcing Partnerships and Programs at Vizient, Inc., the nation's leading healthcare performance improvement company. He also serves as the Chair of their Employee Resource Group Pride@Vizient. With over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Michael is a highly accomplished professional with a wealth of knowledge and expertise. Michael has demonstrated a dynamic and motivated approach to his work throughout his career. He has a proven track record of forming and maintaining lasting relationships and successfully managing projects from concept to completion. His ability to build cross-functional teams and communicate effectively has enabled him to drive positive outcomes even in challenging situations. As an adaptable and transformational leader, Michael consistently strives to achieve organizational goals. His ability to make critical decisions and navigate obstacles has earned him a reputation for delivering results. His leadership style promotes collaboration and fosters an environment of innovation and growth. Michael is originally from Chicago and received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from DePaul University. He currently resides in Northern California with his husband and two dogs.

Christina Gardner

Christina is a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner with over seven years of experience across various industries, including corporate, consulting, the arts, and higher education. She was introduced to the DEI space when she became a member of the Social Change theater troupe, which used live theatre to drive attention to and solutions for inequities in her college town of Springfield, MO. Prior to coming to Vizient, Christina worked at a DEI consultancy, where she led project teams that conducted learning and development, program initiation, and assessments for small boutique organizations and large corporations in industries ranging from hospitals to urban planning. At Vizient, Christina drives various workstreams that focus on closing experiential and equity gaps, centered on individual employees, teams, and policy. Outside of her day job, Christina can be found writing, reading, at a group fitness class, or scouting for the best oysters in the city. Christina was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and lives in Brooklyn, NY, with her partner, Jonathan.

MC Most

MC Most is a program manager on the Community Impact team at Vizient Inc., a leading healthcare performance improvement company, where she facilitates enterprise-wide volunteering and grantmaking focused on addressing Social Determinants of Health. With a background in social sciences research and anthropology, MC is dedicated to understanding and disrupting the systems and structures at the root of health inequities and injustices. She derives much of her inspiration from the queer leaders who have so often led these charges throughout history. In her free time, MC is a printmaker and frequenter of her local progressive art studio, where she works alongside artists with disabilities to promote their art.

Ariana Cember

Ariana Cember is Vizient’s Culture, Diversity & Inclusion Program Manager. She is passionate about creating authentic change within the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and making all spaces inclusive. Prior to joining Vizient in June 2022, Ariana worked at the Greater New York Hospital Association as the Senior Project Associate, Diversity and Health Equity. She has obtained her DEI Certificate from Cornell University. Ariana lives in New York City with her partner, Stella.