BCU's Anjoli Walker Recognized As Credit Union Times LUMINARIES Finalist
CHICAGO –BCU’s very own Anjoli Walker, Manager of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, has joined the Credit Union Times LUMINARIES Class of 2022 Finalists in the DEI: Individual Executives category. Among six other credit union leaders from CUNA, PSCU, and more, Walker is in great company. Her spot on the short list is well-deserved, as is evident from the many dynamic and meaningful ways she is helping drive BCU forward in all aspects of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
“In her seven years with BCU, Anjoli has revolutionized BCU’s awareness of all things diversity, equity, and inclusion,” said Anita Wilson Wellen, BCU Vice-President of Talent Management. Walker is responsible for driving DEI strategy, serving as a cross-functional resource to support BCU's initiatives in this space. She introduced Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and an Inclusion Network, allowing employees to have a sense of belonging and purpose beyond their daily responsibilities. Current ERGs include an Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) group; an African American group (AAERG); a LatinX group; We for She, a group for women; BCyoU, a multi-generational ERG; and an ERG dedicated to Agile Innovation. “Even more so, to have an organization – from CEO to Board of Directors and the employees in between – that is equally passionate about enacting DEI truly multiplies Anjoli’s efforts tenfold,” continued Wilson Wellen.
Walker spearheaded culture training, guiding 100% of BCU employees through a Power of Leading Inclusively (POLI) course that is now embedded in new-hire onboarding as a fundamental introduction to BCU’s culture. The POLI course receives rave reviews across the board! She also led Microaggressions training and Inclusive Leadership Development sessions, homing in on specific, actionable steps to be a successful ally in the workplace. Walker also helped BCU further embed DEI into its DNA by advocating for “Inclusion” to be added to their existing shared values. She worked to create the Credit Union’s DEI Strategic Plan with the help of BCU’s Credit Union industry friends at Humanidei, facilitated comprehensive focus groups throughout the organization, and she regularly presents DEI progress to BCU’s Board of Directors.
Walker’s efforts extend beyond the scope of employee training and internal advocacy. She has implemented community initiatives that directly benefit BCU members and potential non-members, too. Walker also serves as an advisor for BCU’s partnership with celebrity financial educator, author, and activist, Tiffany ‘The Budgetnista’ Aliche, to provide financial expertise to a broader audience. Aliche is also working with the Credit Union in a consulting capacity to uncover and address ways BCU can better serve current and potential members – particularly, communities of color.
As with the Aliche partnership, Walker often acts as a cross-functional DEI resource, providing various business ends with strategic, operations-oriented insights and advocating for and implementing solutions that support BCU’s DEI goals. “I am honored to be recognized as a LUMINARIES finalist,” said Walker. “I am proud to lead BCU’s DEI initiatives and work alongside passion-filled professionals dedicated to making a profound difference in the financial industry.” Walker has a bachelor's degree in Psychology from the University of Michigan and a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Argosy University. She is also a Certified Diversity Professional and holds a certificate from Georgetown University honoring her dedication to Advancing Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion in the Workplace.
About BCU: BCU is a purpose-driven organization that empowers people to discover financial freedom. With $5B in assets, while being both not-for-profit and member-owned, the Credit Union is driven by the commitment to provide extraordinary service. BCU members enjoy access to financial services and well-being programming that inspire confidence through the brand promise “Here Today For Your Tomorrow.” BCU is the financial well-being benefit partner for some of America's best companies, currently serving Fortune 100 workplaces throughout the United States and Puerto Rico. Lifetime membership is offered to employees and families of their company partners, and those living or working in Chicago-area communities. To learn more about BCU, visit BCU.org.