In late 2024, Barbara Smith, Concierge Manager at The Gramercy, stepped forward with a vision that would quickly grow into Dweck’s newest Employee Resource Group (ERG), NOIRE, which stands for Nurturing Opportunity, Inspiration, Resilience, and Empowerment. Within two and a half months, Barbara, along with founding members Madeline Guillermo, Jasmine Anderson, and Wanda Johnson, transformed that vision into a vibrant community dedicated to fostering inclusion and cultural understanding across Dweck Properties.

“It was deep for me,” Barbara reflects. Rather than simply observing an opportunity for a new ERG, Barbara took action. Her vision quickly found enthusiastic support from colleagues like Madeline Guillermo, Senior Project Administrator in Construction Management, whose own journey adds a unique perspective to the group.

“My parents are from the Dominican Republic, but I was born and grew up here in the States,” Madeline shares. “The culture that embraced me was African American culture. The clothes, the fashion, the music, the food – there’s so much that I grew up with because I was embraced by this community.”

This spirit of cultural exchange and learning finds a formal platform in Dweck’s Stay Curious sessions, guided by Jessica Mayo, Senior Director of Employee Relations. Launched in 2024, these sessions embody one of Dweck’s core values – Stay Curious – which encourages team members to listen, learn, and welcome different perspectives. “We love to hear about what is important to our Dwecksters and are committed to carving out space to learn from each other,” Jessica explains. The sessions, deliberately titled as questions like “What is Ramadan?” or “What is Juneteenth?” create an inviting environment for learning, regardless of participants’ familiarity with the topics.

“It has truly been rewarding and energizing to be a part of the Stay Curious sessions,” Jessica reflects. “It is deeply fulfilling to witness the open dialogue, learning, transparency, and genuine understanding that has come out of these sessions. Each time I’m reminded how special it is to work for a company that values collaboration and creating a workplace where everyone feels respected and valued.”

The importance of these gatherings resonates across the organization. Sebat Abdulkader, Senior Director of Property Accounting, who led a session on Ramadan, emphasizes that “these sessions provide a platform for meaningful dialogue, connection, and respect.” Payroll Manager Allison Taylor shares her experience as an attendee: “I love them. I love the safe space to learn new things.” Alex Williams, Project Administrator, explains that these sessions offer Dweck team members “an opportunity to peek behind the curtain, dive deeper, ask unexpected questions, and share stories that help break down preconceived notions or stereotypes.”

Most recently, NOIRE hosted their own Stay Curious session focused on Kwanzaa. “Even I learned things about Kwanzaa I didn’t know,” Madeline admits, highlighting how the sessions serve as learning opportunities for presenters and attendees alike. The session explored not just the traditions but the deeper meaning behind Kwanzaa, its focus on family unity, and its role in community building.

Each founding member brings unique strengths to NOIRE. Barbara, affectionately known as “the Wise One,” brings historical perspective and wisdom. Madeline serves as the organizational force, transforming ideas into action. Wanda Johnson, dubbed “the Book Worm,” leads research efforts, while Jasmine Anderson brings what she calls a “super gentle sister” energy to the group, fostering balance and peace.

Looking ahead, NOIRE has ambitious plans for 2025. The group is launching a book drive for Thompson Elementary School in DC, featuring multicultural books that will help educate K-5 students about heritage and diversity. They’re also organizing pop-up events during Black History Month to support Black-owned businesses, planning outings to the Kennedy Center for Alvin Ailey performances, and coordinating visits to the African American Museum. Future NOIRE events will explore topics ranging from the evolution of African American music to the cultural significance of hair care and styling.

“We need to take steps forward, not back,” Barbara asserts. “We need to respect each other.” Her vision for NOIRE extends beyond individual events to creating lasting change. Whether through their planned summer cookout that will feel like a family reunion or their more structured educational initiatives, NOIRE is building bridges of understanding across the organization.

For those considering joining NOIRE, Madeline offers this perspective: “We have to be open-minded and welcome everyone. America is a big melting pot, and unity means including people from everywhere.” This inclusive spirit, combined with a commitment to education and community building, makes NOIRE a powerful force for positive impact at Dweck Properties.

This organic approach to diversity and inclusion has been part of Dweck’s DNA since its inception. “It is an integral part of our framework and embedded in all that we do as one of our Dweck Team Member Commitments,” Jessica notes. “As a company, it is who we are and what we expect every Dweckster to be.” The Stay Curious sessions, which are optional and virtual to ensure maximum accessibility, exemplify this commitment, offering everyone an opportunity to both teach and learn.

As Barbara reflects on NOIRE’s rapid progress, her pride is evident. “Look at all that we’ve accomplished already,” she says. With its calendar full of upcoming events and initiatives, NOIRE is poised to make an even greater impact in 2025, embodying Dweck’s commitment to fostering curiosity, learning, and belonging across the organization.