NICOLE SMART, DIRECTOR OF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION & BELONGING, WAS NOMINATED AND THE RECIPIENT OF THE 2024 CARIBBEAN IMPACT AWARD IN RECOGNITION OF HER CONTRIBUTIONS TO PARTNERS HEALTH PLAN. 

On Wednesday, March 20, more than three dozen honorees attended the annual Caribbean Impact Awards hosted by Caribbean Life. The annual Impact Awards recognize the achievements and contributions of outstanding individuals born in the Caribbean or with a Caribbean background. Nominees are honored for making the most impact in their respective career fields and for framing the path for incoming immigrants and inspiring generations to come. 

Nicole has over 15 years of diverse experience in Diversity, Equity, Inclusion (DEI), Global Human Resources, labor relations, and leadership development. She is also an educator and has been an Adjunct Faculty member since 2020, at the New York University - SPS, Preston Robert Tisch Institute for Global Sport. Nicole has honed multi-faceted expertise in DEI initiatives and cultural objectives, skills that are vital for transforming organizational cultures, advancing employee engagement, and fostering belonging in the workplaces for employees to bring their authentic selves.  

Throughout her career, Nicole has made impactful contributions to a diverse range of organizations in the public, private and non-profit sectors.  She served as the inaugural diversity director for the Actors’ Equity Association, a 51,000-member union, from 2017-2019, and played a pivotal role in structuring a newly formed department to establish and attain its diversity and inclusion goals. Her career has expanded since then to include roles such as principal consultant, inspirational/educational speaker and facilitator.

Nicole has dedicated significant time to community volunteer services.  For example, in 2006 she served as a panel moderator for the Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) Caribbean American Heritage Month National Student Leadership Conference (2006) hosted at New York University to commemorate the first National Caribbean American Heritage Month, and as a mentor to first generation students at NYU’s First-Class Mentorship Program (2017).

Nicole’s commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) ensures that Partners Health Plan creates inclusive spaces that celebrate diversity and fosters a culture of respect and empowerment for the communities we serve. She is dedicated to advancing these principles across the enterprise where her work impacts thousands of lives, benefiting the individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) we support, their families, and our workforce.  

“As an immigrant from the twin island of Trinidad and Tobago, this recognition is deeply meaningful to me and my family. It is a proud moment to see my mom and dad witness this acknowledgement, especially considering the challenges we faced as immigrants. This nomination recognizes my achievements and contributions in my career, serving as a testament to my Caribbean heritage and an inspiration to future generations. 

Throughout my career, I have been passionate about advancing diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging because I believe that everyone deserves a fair and equitable environment where they can feel a sense of belonging and can thrive.  

I am very grateful to work along with a dedicated DEIB team, Council, and Steering committee to achieve Partners Health Plan’s goals in advancing DEIB maturity." 

Click hereto see all Impact Awards honorees.

SCOTT KOHN, TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER RECENTLY RECEIVED THE HUDSON VALLEY'S TOP FORTY UNDER 40 MOVER & SHAKER AWARD! 

The Hudson Valley's Top Forty Under 40 Mover & Shaker awards are bestowed annually to 40 individuals under the age of 40 who have shown a strong commitment to the Hudson Valley. The awards ceremony, which is open to the public, is a celebration of these individuals and their accomplishments. 

Scott is a multifaceted individual whose dedication to community service and personal development shines through in his various roles and endeavors. As the Training & Development Manager at Partners Health Plan, Scott plays a crucial role in empowering others through education and skill-building. 

Beyond his professional responsibilities, Scott is deeply involved in giving back to his community in numerous ways. As an Ambassador to the National Alliance for Mental Illness, he raises funds and awareness for mental health initiatives, demonstrating his commitment to supporting those in need. Additionally, Scott contributes to community safety by providing training in CPR/First Aid, Mental Health First Aid, and various leadership courses through his own business. 

Scott's commitment to service extends to his role as a volunteer EMT in the City of Beacon Volunteer Ambulance Corp., where he provides essential medical assistance to those in need. Furthermore, his involvement with River Haven Children’s Youth Center highlights his dedication to cultivating opportunities for giving back and supporting individuals facing adversity. 

Scott's contributions to his community have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the Community Star Award he received last summer, which recognized his dedication, commitment, and service. His educational background, including a Bachelor of Arts Degree from SUNY Cortland and a master’s in teaching from Manhattanville College, provides him with a strong foundation for his diverse array of endeavors. 

When asked about what it means to be a recipient of The Hudson Valley 40 Under 40 Mover & Shaker award, Scott stated, “I pride myself in providing inspiring trainings to our most valuable asset, our workforce. I’m honored and humbled to be recognized for such a prestigious award while working for such a prestigious organization over these last six years.” 

With his unwavering dedication to spreading kindness and empathy, Scott consistently strives to make every situation the best possible outcome, cultivating collaborative opportunities and building lasting relationships within the community. Through his actions and leadership, he empowers others to do the same, leaving a positive impact wherever he goes. 

Click here to see all of Hudson Vally’s top 40 Under 40 honorees.