Meena Patel
Diversity Equity & Inclusion Director
NextGen Healthcare
Meena Patel, the diversity, equity and inclusion director at NextGen Healthcare, is a driving force in creating a more inclusive workplace. In her first year, she established a robust DEI culture, fully integrating DEI principles into the company’s ethos. Patel’s unique challenge is fostering a DEI-centric culture in a 100% remote workplace, spanning 2000-plus employees in the U.S. and 700-plus in India. She implemented a three-pillar approach: Mindset/Awareness, enhancing understanding through internal and external training; Visibility/Engagement, growing Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and promoting intersectionality; and Metrics Tracking, monitoring pay equity and demographic diversity. Patel has been instrumental in increasing awareness and participation within each ERG, working with internal communications, promoting in our monthly town halls, and incorporating timely topics with key internal and external guest speakers. Patel is dedicated to making financial resources available to all, regardless of background, exemplifying her commitment to community empowerment and DEI.