Page 25 - Investment Advisor September 2022

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

INDIVIDUALS “As one of his region’s Inclusion and Diversity Leaders, he is
focus[ed] on making the region aware of the unique challenges
Scarlett Abraham Clarke, and opportunities that diverse associates experience. He is also a
Commonwealth Financial Network passionate advocate for LGBT rights and currently serves on the
According to Commonwealth, with its first board of directors for the Pride Chamber in Orlando, with a focus
chief diversity and inclusion officer — Scarlett on advocating for small business owners in Central Florida.”
Abraham Clarke — the firm has “made progress
towards a DEI strategy that holds us accountable, fosters inclu- Alex David, Stifel Independent Advisors
sion, and sets an example both in and outside of our community.” As president and CEO of Stifel Independent
Thanks to her work, it has “built a strong DEI strategy which Advisors, Alex David is a financial services
is rooted in four DEI pillars — inclusive hiring, talent enable- veteran “who is using his position at a forward-
ment, inclusion and belonging, and marketplace and communi- thinking firm as a platform and microphone to
ty, and … launched several initiatives to help inform and educate speak in an impassioned way about the importance of recog-
employees: DEI Online Hub, Speaker Series, Just Ask Panel nizing, valuing, and lifting up others who have had a marginal-
Series, and Employee Resource Groups. While we’ve established ized presence and voice in the industry. In a relatively short
a strong foundation, the work we’re doing is ongoing and we’re span of time, Alex — one of very few Black chief executives in
constantly working to maintain our positive momentum,” it said. wealth management — has recruited several diverse practices
into the Stifel network, drawing from his strengths in building
Gabe Csizmadia, Edward Jones on longstanding relationships with minority wealth managers.”
Edward Jones financial advisor Gabe Csizmadia His approach to diversity is “a case study in investing in rela-
is committed to building and nurturing an envi- tionships across years and decades,” it adds. His team is “preparing
ronment that creates a sense of belonging for for a future of reaping the rewards of greater innovation and profit-
all associates and clients, according to the firm. ability that comes with improved diversity, equality and inclusion.”

SEPTEMBER 2022 INVESTMENT ADVISOR 21