Julie Cafley: Gender Partnership in DEI

This week, host Lisa Laronde interviews Julie Cafley, a leader in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI). They discuss the importance of inclusive leadership in advancing gender equity, emphasizing the need for both men and women to be involved in the conversation to effect meaningful change. They highlight the value of allies in the fight for gender equality and share their personal experiences on advocating for gender equity and inclusivity in leadership roles. Julie emphasizes the need for organizations to create inclusive systems and policies, support women as their careers grow, and promote empathic leadership. She also reflects on Catalyst Canada's research on women on the front line and the barriers they face. Julie believes that ongoing discussions and pragmatic DEI efforts are crucial for creating positive change.

More about Dr. Julie Cafley:

Dr. Julie Cafley is the Executive Director of Catalyst Canada, an organization that drives inclusive workplaces. She is a creative, strategic leader and an accomplished academic with expertise in equity and inclusion, public policy and higher-education leadership.

In 2023, she was chosen as a member of the Canadian delegation to the United Nations for the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67). She is a frequent writer and speaker on higher education, leadership and gender equity.

Julie holds a PhD in education leadership from the University of Ottawa with sought-after expertise in university presidential mandates. Her thesis focused on higher education leadership and governance through the lens of unfinished terms of Canadian university presidents.

Julie is an active community builder and a collaborative change maker. Whether it is serving coffee and muffins to the region’s unhoused people, serving on the board of Parkinson Canada, mentoring young policy wonks, or supporting her alma mater on its Campaign Cabinet and Dean’s advisory council, giving back is integral to who she is and a part of her every day.

Julie is a committed advocate for women and leadership, a constant ally for First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples and an indefatigable champion for diversity initiatives.

Connect with Julie:

X: @Jcafley

Instagram: @Jcafley and @Catalystinc

Linked In: Julie Cafley, PhD | LinkedIn, Catalyst Inc.: My Company | LinkedIn