Getting to Know You: Why Diversity is Everything and How Inclusion Helps Businesses’ Bottom Line

Join her as she discusses the importance of diversity in any business and why building lasting relationships starts with the simple act of saying hello.

Bio:

Margot’s experience spans Board and Operational leadership; currently she serves on the Board of Trustees of the Cleveland Clinic as Vice-Chair of Government & Community Relations, The Cleveland Foundation, The Cleveland Orchestra, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Say Yes to Education, and recently concluded nine years at Kent State University as Board Secretary, Chair of Nominating and Governance, and Chair of Academic Excellence and Student Success. She was recently elected to the Board of Directors of AARP and the Cleveland Cuyahoga County Port Authority. She is an Advisory Board member of Nirvana Analytics, an investment and private equity company.

Margot is the former Chair and CEO of the KeyBank Foundation (retired), and also served as Chief Diversity Officer at KeyBank. Under Margot’s leadership at KeyBank, she developed strategic philanthropic investing and measuring long-term performance. This earned The Civic 50 recognition six consecutive years with four distinctions in the financial services sector; the most in the company’s history. As KeyBank’s first Chief Diversity Officer, Margot led initiatives earning national distinction including successive recognition by DiversityInc. Margot is a recipient of the Master Innovator recognition by Smart Business Magazine.

Margot is known for being positive, developing strong relationships, and for her effective communication style. She is passionate about the community and serving others. Her enthusiasm readily engages people at all levels. Well respected, balanced, and inspiring are some words used by others to describe her. She has been recognized for her ability to work strategically and impactfully with boards.

Margot received a Bachelor of Science Degree from Hampton University in Physics and Master of Arts Degree from Ohio State University. She is the mother of three adult children, one grandchild and makes her home in Northeast Ohio.