EDI – Executive Development Institute

Specialties

EDI is the only Pacific Northwest non-​profit organization that focuses on leadership training for multi-​ethnic professionals. We have built a community of over 850 alumni who work in diverse markets. EDI has given a voice to multi-​ethnic leaders to strive to make a difference in an increasingly interdependent global economy.

EDI offers two distinct leadership programs: Discovery and Navigation. Programs are offered in the Greater Puget Sound and Greater Portland, beginning in late March/​early April and culminating with a graduation ceremony in November.

The Leadership Discovery program is well-​suited for the individual contributor committed to expanding and escalating their career. Participants focus on self-​discovery, cultural awareness, effective communication and leadership education.

Leadership Navigation focuses its training on the «hows» of leadership suited for mid to senior-​level professionals. Participants focus on the critical competencies for all executive leaders, examine how best to integrate your unique perspectives and cultural insights into an effective and authentic leadership style, receive professional coaching which deepens application and reinforces learning.

History

Established in 1994.

Under the guidance and direction of the Japanese American Chamber of Commerce, EDI was created because Japanese Americans were underrepresented in corporate America’s key leadership positions — positions from which the most critical and influential decisions were made. The program quickly expanded to include all Asian and Pacific Islander communities and in 2009, EDI launched its Hispanic-​relevant curriculum.