May 29, 2014

Richard Kroeger, chair of the Bethesda Oak Diversity Advisory Council, has been named the Diversity and Inclusion Champion of the Year for his contributions "beyond the call of duty" to furthering a diverse, impartial and inclusive environment at TriHealth.

Richard was recognized during the 2014 Diversity Summit on May 28 at Bethesda North. Tracey DuEst, Diversity and Inclusion consultant, presented the award with the following introduction:

When I think about Richard and his dedication to diversity and inclusion, the first thing that comes to mind is his genuine desire for 'justice for all.'

You can count on Richard to be the one to speak out many times when no one else will. He is constantly using his voice and passion for diversity and inclusion to help create a more welcoming and inclusive workplace for all TriHealth team members.

Richard truly is the epitome of 'baptism by fire.' He became vice chair (of the Bethesda Oak Diversity Advisory Council) in April of 2013. Just two months later in July of 2013, we lost our current chair; so within two months, Richard became the chair of the Bethesda Oak DAC.

Usually with such a quick transition there are some expected bumps in the road, but not with Richard. His quick transition was seamless as he wanted to assure that the Bethesda Oak DAC kept a solid foundation and that it met its goals for FY14.

Richard is open to new ideas and creates a space in meetings to allow for inclusive decision making and action about how to accomplish the goals in the Bethesda Oak annual plan. He is always seeking ways to educate himself and the rest of the DAC in order to spread awareness throughout all of TriHealth. He constantly challenges himself to stretch outside his comfort zone for the betterment of everyone involved.

Even in the face of adversity, and with the smallest of the six DACs, Richard has been persistent, organized and an effective collaborator. These characteristics have allowed him and the rest of the Bethesda Oak DAC to accomplish many outstanding achievements this year. 

Some of the accomplishments and contributions Richard has made to TriHealth include:

• Has been a Bethesda Oak DAC member since its inception
• Spearheaded the first ever Community Service Challenge as part of the Community Engagement objective
• Assured the labs participation in both the Healthcare Explorers Program & the Community Service Challenge
• Assisted in organizing lab team members to attend a Connecting with Others training
• Current member of URGE (United Resource Group for Equality)
• Volunteered at the MLK Day of Service for LGBT Homeless Youth
• Many, many, more

It is very clear why Richard Kroeger has been chosen as our Champion of the Year. On behalf of the Diversity and Inclusion Office and the entire Bethesda Oak DAC, I would like to present you with the Champion of the Year Award.