CFA Society Atlanta is committed to improving Inclusion and Diversity (I&D) in the investment management industry. As part of a programme of events, the local society will mark Black History Month by hosting a panel of leading finance professionals from the black community.
The African American Investment Panel, to be held on 25 February 2021, will span a broad agenda, from a discussion about careers to advice for future black finance professionals. Panellists will provide recommendations for the wider finance community seeking to enhance diversity and inclusion programs.
CFA Society Atlanta is delighted that two society members and CFA charterholders are supporting its efforts by speaking at local events. Dekia Scott, CFA, will feature on the African American Investment Panel and Degas Wright, CFA, will speak at the 17th Annual Forecasting Event. You can learn more about these individuals here:
Dekia Scott, CFA
CIO for Southern Company
“It is extremely important to highlight African Americans in the investment community so that younger generations of talent see a broad and seasoned representation of investment professionals.”
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Ms. Scott is the Chief Investment Officer at Southern Company where she leads its Trust Finance team overseeing the Company’s corporate pension plan and the investment options of the company’s 401k plan.
Ms. Scott has a broad array of experience, ranging from asset manager research and structure to portfolio strategy, asset-liability analysis, and high-level accountability to executive management. Ms. Scott has developed strong relationships with many asset management organizations and professionals, across various layers of the institutional investment industry.
In December 2020, Ms. Scott was the recipient of the National Association of Securities Professionals Joyce Johnson Award. This recognises true leaders whose efforts best exemplify the mission of Joyce Johnson, which was to make a difference for minorities and women professionals in the securities industry.
In addition, Ms. Scott serves as a board member of The Council on Alcohol & Drugs and the Development Committee of KIPP Atlanta Schools.
Degas Wright, CFA
CEO and CIO, Decatur Capital Management
“It is important to highlight African Americans in the investment community because it may encourage black students to explore the opportunities that the investment industry offers. If we believe that greater inclusion in our industry is beneficial; then, how can individuals and firms make a positive impact? Our firm, Decatur Capital Management, sponsors a college intern program that allows me to introduce students to the CFA Program and financial industry. I challenge other firms to engage with students either through mentorship or internship programs.”
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As a founder-principal of Decatur Capital Management (DCM), Degas developed DCM’s investment philosophy and is responsible for its implementation.
Degas serves on the executive committee of the Atlanta Society of Financial and Investment Professionals Foundation. The foundation promotes the economic stability of young adults in the local community by providing foundational knowledge in financial literacy. The Foundation is working with local universities to create an online financial literacy badge program, local scouts earning the requirements for their Eagle rank, and purchasing books for the Kids Read program at Atlanta Public schools.
Degas was honoured to testify at the July 2019 hearing for the U.S. House Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on Investor Protection, Entrepreneurship, and Capital Markets related to greater sustainability disclosures. Currently, he serves as a CNBC contributor discussing capital markets.
I&D remains an important cultural value to CFA Institute and robust efforts are in place to improve I&D in the investment management industry. CFA Institute is collaborating with asset management firms to move the industry to adopt and implement more progressive policies, and to leverage best practices to create a more inclusive investment profession. Read more
At the end of 2020, an I&D Benchmark survey was sent to the CFA Society® community for input. For those who participated, a benchmark summary report will be provided.
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