News: Chemonics Announces New Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Dr. Kenya Dugger

Chemonics International welcomes Dr. Kenya Dugger as senior director of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Dr. Dugger has 21 years of experience in the U.S. Army and Department of Defense and 12 years of experience working with executives and employees in global DEI, data analysis, cultural awareness, ethics and compliance, and human resources.

As senior director of corporate DEI, Dr. Dugger will manage the continual planning and execution of the company’s strategy to sustain a workplace that reflects our global clientele and promote inclusive behavior at all levels. Dr. Dugger will also supervise Chemonics’ Diversity and Inclusion Council and employee resource groups, which play an essential part in addressing the needs and goals of the employee communities they represent.

“Diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical to infusing innovation and creativity in our work. We’re excited to welcome Kenya and his leadership as we continue our journey to eliminate inequities and integrate DEI throughout our global development approaches and workforce,” said Chemonics’ President and CEO Jamey Butcher.

Dr. Dugger comes to Chemonics from the Center for the Army Profession and Leadership. As the center’s deputy director, he advised senior leaders on DEI programming for two years. Previously, he served as senior global deputy director of DEI for the Department of the Army, overseeing talent acquisition, including analyzing and tracking hiring trends and recruiting.“Joining the Chemonics organization is very exciting,” Dr. Dugger said.

“Understanding the overall capacity and sphere of influence that Chemonics is responsible for while taking risks to build sustainability and innovation through diversity is fascinating. I look forward to continuing to help Chemonics build on its solid foundation of putting diversity first as part of the organizational mission statement, business priorities, and commitment to equity.”

Dr. Dugger holds a Ph.D. from Grand Canyon University in organizational leadership, with an emphasis on DEI. He also earned his M.S. in human resource management from the University of Maryland and executive-level certification in DEI from Cornell University.”

Dr. Dugger regards DEI as the lifeblood of organizations, communities, and countries.

“That lifeblood is reflected in the human capital that powers an organization, advances a community, and sustains a country,” he said. “Organizations cannot expect to remain relevant if their talent pool is not reflective of the communities they serve.”