AI for Empathy and Inclusion: Entrepreneur Serena Huang on Data-Driven Initiatives for Building Diverse Teams and Measuring What Matters

Dr. Serena Huang is revolutionizing how organizations approach talent, well-being, and DEI through data and AI. The CEO and Founder of Data with Serena, she is also the author of the bestselling book The Inclusion Equation: Leveraging Data & AI For Organizational Diversity and Well-being. Serena is a sought-after international speaker and as an AI expert, people analytics executive and chief data officer, she’s spent more than a decade leading measurement and analytics strategy for DEI and ESG at iconic brands like GE, Kraft Heinz, PayPal and LinkedIn. Also a guest lecturer at top MBA programs, including Wharton, Haas, and Kellogg, Serena’s on a mission to help businesses worldwide actualize a new vision of work where employee well-being and belonging are prioritized alongside profits.

🔑Key Takeaways🔑

🤖 💖 Ask AI to be a Brainstorming Partner: AI must not become a replacement for human interaction or creativity. Learn how best to use it to foster collaboration, teamwork, mental health and wellbeing.

🔄❤️ Data Tells a Story; Empathy Drives Change: Why all-important data itself doesn’t change minds or behavior, but stories do. Learn how to combine data-driven insights with personal stories to foster true empathy and organizational buy-in.

🌈🤎 Inclusion Must Be Measured (and Actioned!): You can’t improve what you don’t measure. Simple pulse surveys, deeper data on collaboration patterns, and transparent follow-up are key to building a culture where every voice is valued—and action is just as important as collection.

✨🤖 AI is a Tool—It Needs Guardrails and Human Values: Learn how AI can uncover and help fix workplace bias, but responsible AI frameworks, clear opt-in autonomy, and the principle of "do no harm" are non-negotiable for building trust.

👥 🤟 Why Companies Can’t Ignore Inclusion: Gen Z, the most diverse generation yet—won’t work at companies lacking diversity in senior leadership. Learn why DEI drives better results, by any measure.

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More about Serena at Data With Serena

Get Serena’s book, The Inclusion Equation: Leveraging Data & AI For Organizational Diversity and Well-being