Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) at Shorelight is woven into the fabric of our corporate strategy and mission to Educate the World. Comprised of a committee of dedicated team members, Employee Resource Groups (ERGs), and senior leadership, DEI creates strategic accountability and a dedicated focus on ensuring every stakeholder feels welcome, respected, and valued.
Who We Are
Our DEI subcommittees and affinity groups empower employees to create a welcoming, respectful, and supportive cross-cultural work environment.
Curriculum & Awareness
Supports an inclusive workplace through trainings and resources to help bring awareness of DEI issues to all stakeholders.
Education & Engagement
Promotes the annual Shorelight DEI survey and ongoing ERG initiatives to foster greater employee awareness and participation across the business.
Hiring, Retention, & Advancement
Advances equitable and inclusive practices throughout the organization, leading to a diverse and empowered workforce.

Our Student Impact

A smiling male international student in a red plaid shirt sits across from a female interviewer during a student visa interview.

Student Ambassadors

Enrolled international students address the unique needs of prospective students across our campuses, through the application process and into the first year.
Three international students, two female students, and one male having a conversation about upcoming orientation programs at their US university orientation.

Pre-Arrival Counseling & Orientations

International students receive travel, cultural, and social support so they are prepared to succeed — in class and beyond — once on campus.
A diverse group of five international students stand in a field and hold flags from Italy, the USA, the UK, and Brazil.

International Education Week (IEW)

Held annually in November, International Education Week celebrates the many values and benefits of bringing culturally diverse perspectives to US university campuses.

Our Goals

Shorelight aims to incorporate DEI principles across the organization. Our ongoing efforts are primarily achieved through:
01

Communication

Inform stakeholders of DEI related activities in a timely, consistent, and engaging way.
02

Business Impact & Influence

Provide actionable insights that grow our business and create a community of trust.
03

Geo & Ethnocentric Strategy

Identify regional representatives to promote DEI strategy.
04

Resources & Training

Develop DEI-focused trainings to enrich internal and external stakeholders.

Our People

Get to know Shorelight’s employees around the world.
Shorelight Vice President of Academic Affairs Scott Helfgott, who also serves as the chair of the Shorelight LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group, stands in front of a blue and black background and smiles for the camera

Scott Helfgott

Based in Miami, Florida, Scott Helfgott is vice president of academic affairs and chair of the LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group. Helfgott has been with Shorelight for more than 10 years and has 30 years of experience working in international education, public policy, and human rights advocacy. His team is focused on teaching and learning, academic operations, learning architecture, and career services.

Sarah McKenzie, director of academic operations projects at Shorelight and a member of the company's LGBTQIA+ employee resource group, smiles for the camera.

Sarah McKenzie

Originally from the UK, Sarah has held several roles during her 10 years at Shorelight, currently as director of academic operations projects. An experienced lecturer in English Literature with a PhD from the University of Warwick, she volunteers her expertise for the Beacon Hill Seminars in Boston. She is a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ Employee Resource Group, and mentors and supports people in finding their authentic selves.

William Schaper, student services director, Adelphi International at Adelphi University, stands in profile and smiles

William Schaper

William is student services director at Adelphi International at Adelphi University and co-chair of Shorelight’s Latino DEI group. Prior to Shorelight, William taught elementary- and secondary-level English in Madrid, Spain. In his free time, he enjoys international travel and exploring the diverse neighborhoods of his current home, New York City.

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