Focus on Equity and Inclusion
Welcome! I am Maileen Hamto, Ed.D. (University of Colorado Denver), a diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) leader with more than 20 years of experience in strategic communications and DEI program management, strategic planning, and implementation. I have worked in various sectors, including healthcare, higher education, philanthropy, nonprofits, government, and technology. ​In my role as an equity-focused researcher, educator, and consultant, I am adept at identifying opportunities for learning and growth toward cultural transformation.
​Centering Equity. My academic and career trajectories have inspired me to seek out opportunities where I can help develop work environments that value and honor diversity, equity, and inclusion. I embody cultural humility and respect for multiple voices, especially voices from marginalized and underrepresented backgrounds.
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Cultural Background. I identify as Pinay, Filipina-American a foreign-born woman of color who is bicultural and bilingual in English and Tagalog. I grew up in Manila. I am on a lifelong journey of decolonization, fully understanding the importance of constant self-reflection in embodying the principles of equity and justice in my everyday leadership practice. My experiences as an immigrant woman of color underscored awareness about the intersectionality of marginalized identities -- such as gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, and language, among others -- to inform effective interventions to mitigate biases in decision-making.
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DEI Leadership Approach. As a seasoned leader in the field, I understand the importance of implementing a cohesive and lasting DEI strategy focused on driving organizational change. My research and work experiences in DEI leadership demonstrate that cultural change requires courage and dedication to confront uncomfortable truths. Thoughtfulness and intentionality are critical.
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Education and Credentials. My educational background and professional training, and experience in DEI have allowed me access to strategic planning, evaluation, and assessment tools to execute and measure the relevance and effectiveness of DEI programs. In addition, I have developed and facilitated workshops and learning opportunities for staff and leaders to apply equitable practices to their everyday work.
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2023 | Doctor of Education, University of Colorado Denver, School of Education and Human Development
Concentration: Urban and Diverse Communities
Research Focus: Understanding How Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leaders
Advance Racial Equity in the Workplace
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2020 | Diversity Leadership Certification, Cornell University
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2018 | Certified Diversity Professional, Society for Diversity
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2017 | Master's in Healthcare Management, Oregon Health & Science University
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2003 | Master's in Business Administration, University of Portland
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1998 | Bachelor's in Journalism, University of Houston
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