CarePlus New Jersey’s CEO and President, Brigitte Johnson, has been awarded the Transformational Leadership in DEI Award by the New Jersey Association of Mental Health & Addiction Agencies (NJAMHAA). This is in recognition of her lifelong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI).
Well Done!
Brigitte was honored with the DEI Leadership Award during NJAMHAA’s virtual membership meeting, where her exceptional work in diversity, equity, and inclusion was celebrated. Her leadership at CarePlus NJ, coupled with her impactful service on the boards of NJAMHAA and the New Jersey Mental Health Institute, has significantly advanced DEI and inclusion initiatives within the mental health and addiction services field.
At CarePlus NJ
From the very beginning, Brigitte has been dedicated to fostering an inclusive culture and leadership team. In response to the tragic murder of George Floyd in May 2020, she established CarePlus NJ’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Action (IDEA) Committee. This initiative reflects Brigitte’s vision for enhancing diversity and creating a more inclusive and equitable organization.
Under her leadership, the IDEA Committee is committed to driving both community education and internal cultural transformation. Key initiatives include:
Staff Support Groups:
Weekly staff-to-staff support groups to create an inclusive workplace to encourage talking and support for all in leadership positions as well as front line staff.
HR Policy Revisions:
Updating the organization’s human resources policies and procedures to reflect DEI efforts and principles.
Cultural Integration:
Continuing to integrate DEI insights and dedication into all aspects of the organizations excellence.
Inclusive Care
Brigitte’s approach to DEI transcends mere compliance or superficial social awareness; it’s about fostering innovation and broadening our perspectives. ‘Diversity, equity, and inclusion are not just gestures to meet quotas or appear socially conscious,’ Brigitte stated. ‘They represent a dynamic expansion of our viewpoints, possibilities, and capabilities. DEI in the workplace introduces new perspectives, prevents narrow thinking, and encourages mindfulness. It’s essential for mental and behavioral health care to effectively address each client’s unique needs.’
Brigitte is committed to ensuring that CarePlus NJ can recognize and meet the needs of a diverse community with compassion and understanding. She also expressed her gratitude to the CarePlus team for their dedication and support in advancing a more inclusive organization.
Recognition and Appreciation
Brigitte’s award from NJAMHAA is a nod to the work she’s done on in increasing diversity, equity, and inclusion. The diversity awards recognize not only her individual commitment but the importance of DEI in all workplaces and communities. “I’m grateful to the CarePlus team for their participation and support in creating a more inclusive organization and to the New Jersey Association of Mental Health & Addiction Agencies for recognizing my work and DEI in all workplaces and communities,” Brigitte said.
On Going Commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
CarePlus NJ will continue to model the way under Brigitte’s leadership and show how leadership roles with dedication to DEI can change the culture and quality of care in mental and behavioral health.
Source:
CarePlus NJ, INC. is dedicated to excellence in mental healthcare and has a commitment to life-long support needed by individuals and their families to ensure that they achieve their full potential and improve the quality of their lives.
