Beyond the Backlash: Integrating DEI in business education to develop responsible leaders

Abstract

Important societal shifts have led to increasing attention to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives in business schools, alongside the politicization of these efforts and of the term “DEI” itself. As the training ground for future leaders, business schools are critical stakeholders in the move toward more inclusive and equitable workplaces. We examine case study teaching and experiential learning as strategies for achieving impactful and holistic incorporation of inclusive leadership topics into business education. The paper recommends an integrated pedagogical approach involving innovative student learning through the case method and meaningful incorporation of experiential learning; co-curricular activities such as case competitions or custom learning opportunities; institutional support by aligning with organizational-level goals; stakeholder engagement; and systematic ways of assessing impact. An integrated approach fosters a sense of belonging and prepares students with skills to work as inclusive business leaders in the professional world, which contributes to a key tenet of the Sustainable Development Goals. These recommendations may prove useful for educators at other institutions and posit approaches to more comprehensive implementation within business school curriculum to better prepare students to work for and lead inclusive organizations.