DEI In The Wake Of Shifting Public Policies: How Intermedia Stands Strong

When asked how the elimination of U.S. domestic DEI policy will impact CRN’s Diversity Employer of the Year, Senior Vice President of Global Human Resources Elizabeth Mye says Intermedia has no plans to alter its policies on diversity.

With the new administration scaling back on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs, many organizations have followed suit, quietly withdrawing their public commitment to these essential values. High-profile companies like Walmart and Target have distanced themselves from these initiatives, sending a message that DEI may no longer be a priority in their business strategies.

However, some companies are doing the opposite. Brands like Microsoft and Costco are doubling down on their commitment to equity, inclusion, and diversity—both in internal practices and external policies. This shift got me thinking: What are CRN’s award-winning organizations doing to continue fostering and strengthening their DEI programs, even when faced with political pressures to step back?

To get some insight, I reached out to Elizabeth Mye, Senior Vice President of Global Human Resources at Intermedia. In addition to being CRN’s Diversity Employer of the Year 2025, the organization has a long-standing commitment to DEI and community involvement. In our conversation, Mye shared valuable insights into how Intermedia remains firm in its dedication to diversity and inclusion.

Intermedia's Continued Commitment To DEI

Despite the pressures many organizations face, Intermedia continues to prioritize DEI initiatives at the heart of its organizational culture. Its internal programs, like Women of Intermedia and Culture Club, has long been staples of the company’s approach to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. And this isn’t just about creating diverse teams—Intermedia works actively to empower these voices, from their leadership programs to cultural awareness initiatives.

Mye emphasized the importance of representation and inclusivity at all levels. “Our goal has always been to ensure that diversity is not only reflected in our workforce but embedded in the way we work, innovate, and serve our clients,” she told me in an interview. The people leader continued, “We see this as vital to the long-term success of our company and our commitment to the communities we serve.”

This focus on diversity isn’t just a slogan for Intermedia — it’s part of the company’s core mission, influencing everything from recruitment strategies to leadership development. Mye went on to explain, “We believe that diverse perspectives and inclusive environments lead to better decision-making, stronger relationships, and, ultimately, better business outcomes.”

Why This Matters For The Channel Ecosystem

As we’ve seen, some companies are retreating on their DEI commitments in the face of shifting political landscapes, while others, like Intermedia, remain steadfast. This dichotomy is critical for the channel ecosystem. Businesses that continue to invest in diversity, equity, and inclusion don’t just do it because it’s the right thing to do—they do it because it’s an essential part of their growth strategy. The commitment to diversity enhances innovation, helps retain top talent, and ensures that organizations are better positioned to meet the needs of their diverse client base.

Intermedia’s dedication to these values sends a clear message to both their employees and the broader industry: diversity and inclusion aren’t just buzzwords—they are crucial to the company’s success and their future. “Diversity isn’t a box to check,” Mye shared, “it’s a commitment we make every day, from the top of the organization down.”

Looking Ahead

As other organizations pull away from their DEI initiatives, it’s clear that some in the channel ecosystem are choosing to stand firm. Intermedia, along with companies like Microsoft and Costco, continues to prioritize inclusion, equity, and diversity, even when faced with outside pressures to do otherwise.

As we look to the future of DEI in the tech and channel space, it’s more important than ever that we recognize the companies pushing forward, even when the path is full of rollbacks and active resistance. Intermedia is one of those companies, and their commitment serves as a model for others to follow in the years to come.

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