BEAM History
The long-term goals for BEAM at Vaco Holdings are influencing policies and procedures that make a more equitable and welcoming work environment for employees of African descent and increasing the number of employees of African descent at Vaco Holdings and our collective of brands and in positions of leadership.
Highlights of our key events and partnerships in 2023 and our goals for 2024
2023 KEY EVENT
Black History Month - Music Evolution Virtual Tour
Hosted by BEAM, the Music Evolution Virtual Tour was a 60-minute interactive experience for employees of Vaco Holdings and the collective of brands to highlight the story behind how musical genres evolve, from West African and European influences to modern-day chart-topping trends. Going back to the 1800s, attendees learned how popular music was often appropriated from Black musicians, and along with two in-studio guides, heard from an on-location guide in Nashville, Tennessee who shared fun facts about the Grand Ole Opry, Elvis, and more.
2023 KEY EVENT
Celebrating Juneteenth: Past, Present, and Future Panel Event
In honor of Juneteenth, BEAM hosted a virtual event for employees of Vaco Holdings and the collective of brands. Going over the history of Juneteenth, there was a panel discussion centered around what Juneteenth has meant and currently means to BEAM members.
2023 PARTNERSHIP
Connecting People and Teams
BEAM led Vaco's relationship with NABA (National Association of Black Accountants) for our offices around the nation.
2024 GOALS
Making an Impact at Every Level
Engage our entire enterprise community individually and collectively through regular meetings, mentorship, events and programs that promote connection, inclusion, and aid in achieving company and professional goals.
Member Spotlights
Some of the members and allies of BEAM discuss: “Name a prominent figure in Black history who you hope to emulate in the workplace. Why?”
Myca Adams Vaco
Shirley Chisholm was an American politician and educator who became the first Black woman elected to the United States Congress. During her time in Congress, she advocated for women's rights, racial equality, and social justice. Chisholm's trailblazing spirit, fearlessness, and determination to challenge the status quo, easily make her my role model for breaking barriers, speaking up for what is right, and championing diversity and inclusion in the workplace.
John Lewis is my hero. He fought for change (despite great risk) and saw it in his lifetime. #GetInGoodTrouble
Joyce Fang Vaco Holdings
Colette Clifton Vaco
I admire Mae Jemison. On September 12, 1992, Jemison became the first African American woman in space. As a science mission specialist, her responsibility was to conduct motion sickness and bone cell experiments on the crew during the mission. Mae Jemison isn’t just the first African American woman who orbited into space aboard the shuttle Endeavour. She's also a physician, teacher, and Peace Corps volunteer; after her work with NASA, she founded the Jemison Group, which develops scientific and technological advancements. Jemison continues to work toward helping young women of color get more involved in technology, engineering, and math careers.
To even think about being as bold, brave and selfless as Harriet Tubman is amazing to ponder. Applying her impact to the workplace, I hope to never put limitations on what I can achieve. I hope to never limit my professional achievements to what I can do solely for myself. I hope that when I am inevitably faced with scary or uncomfortable situations, I act knowing that staying within my comfort zone will hinder growth and progress towards something better for myself and the collective.
Stephanie Birgells MorganFranklin Consulting
Sydney Johnson Vaco Holdings
Growing up as a huge football fan, I have always loved the excitement of the game; but as a child, I didn’t really envision a future where women would be actively involved in the sport (on or off the field). Sandra Douglass Morgan made history as the first Black female president of an NFL team. Before leading the Las Vegas Raiders franchise, she worked in law, business, and politics. I admire her hard work and commitment to learning and growing as a professional. All of that has led her to making history in the most profitable professional sports league in the United States.
I aim to emulate Jane Bolin in the workplace. In 1939 she became the first Black female judge in the United States. She worked with private employers to hire people based on their skills and abilities rather than the color of their skin. In the workplace, I strive to allow my skills and expertise to take the forefront. I hold firm to the belief that within the workplace, interactions among colleagues should mirror these values of inclusivity and merit-based recognition, fostering a culture where everyone can contribute their best, unrestricted by stereotypes or biases.
Brianna Wooten Vaco Holdings
Vaco understands the significance of drawing the circle wider to broaden our perspective, to connect on a deeper level, and to be a force for positive change in our world. With thousands of Vaconians and clients around the globe, our vision is creating a company – and a world – that places diversity and inclusion at the heart of its culture.