Top takeaways from our latest DEI report

We are excited to announce the release of Walker & Dunlop’s 2023 DEI Report, a comprehensive look at our ongoing efforts to create a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace. This year’s report showcases our progress and reaffirms our commitment to our Drive to '25 goals.

Here’s a sneak peek of what you’ll find in the report.

Key achievements in 2023

• Representation matters: We have seen year-over-year growth in the number of women and underrepresented racial/ethnic groups in management positions, with 28 percent of our management roles now held by women and 14 percent by underrepresented racial/ethnic groups.
• Expanding access: Our partnership with organizations like the Cristo Rey Network and Project Destined has enabled us to create pathways for historically underrepresented groups, ensuring that more individuals have the opportunity to build careers in commercial real estate.
• Recognition: Walker & Dunlop was awarded the Mortgage Bankers Association’s Commercial/Multifamily DEI Leadership Award for Market & Community Outreach Strategies, reflecting our ongoing efforts to drive meaningful change in our industry.

These achievements are just the beginning. As we reflect on our progress, we also look forward to the future.

In harmony with the principles set out in Kate Raworth’s landmark book,  "Doughnut Economics," we see our DEI initiatives as crucial to building a sustainable and equitable economic system.

Here are three key takeaways from our 2023 DEI Report, framed through the lens of these principles:

1. W&D is working to strengthen the social foundation

Creating a strong social foundation where everyone’s basic needs are met is at the heart of Raworth’s principles. Walker & Dunlop’s DEI initiatives are central to this goal. By focusing on increasing representation and equity within our ranks, we ensure that all employees—regardless of gender, race, or background—have access to the opportunities they need to succeed. Our Drive to '25 goals are a testament to this commitment: we strive to increase the proportion of women and underrepresented racial/ethnic diversity in management by 2025.

2. Our DEI initiatives drive economic innovation and performance

Diversity is more than just a moral imperative; it drives economic innovation. As Raworth’s model suggests, a regenerative and distributive economy is one where everyone can contribute to and benefit from economic success. Our Professional Development Experiences (PDE) program and support for Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) are key to fostering this innovation. In 2023, 25 percent of our employees participated in one or more ERGs, contributing to a workplace culture that values diverse perspectives and encourages creative problem-solving. This inclusive environment is good for our employees and drives better business outcomes.

3. W&D fosters long-term sustainability and equity

Sustainability in business is about more than environmental impact; it’s about creating equitable and just systems. Walker & Dunlop’s DEI strategy reflects this broader vision. Our long-term goals, like increasing representation of women and underrepresented racial/ethnic groups among the company’s top 20 percent of earners, are not just about meeting benchmarks—they’re about building a more sustainable business. By continuously benchmarking our progress and holding ourselves accountable, we ensure that our growth is inclusive and benefits all stakeholders.

Our commitment to a better future

As we continue our DEI journey, we are reminded of Kate Raworth's words in "Doughnut Economics": “True prosperity comes from creating a system that is both regenerative and distributive.” Walker & Dunlop’s 2023 DEI Report is a testament to our commitment to this vision. By strengthening our social foundation, driving innovation through diversity, and fostering long-term equity, we are meeting the challenges of today and building a better future.

We invite you to read the 2023 DEI Report and join us on this journey toward a more inclusive and sustainable world.