Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

As HRS’s first Chief Diversity Officer, Florence has helped promote HRS’ commitment to fostering a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment for our employees, clients, and the patients we serve. In her current role, she built the DEI council from the ground up, and is responsible for driving the DEI competence strategy across our organization. ​

What achievement are you most proud of?

Growing up with learning disabilities, I wasn’t sure if I'd make it to college. However, with the help of my family, teachers, friends, and so many more, I was given the tools and resources I needed to succeed. My greatest achievement was never giving up and as a coach, mentor, and accessibility advocate, I only hope I can do the same for others.

How do you celebrate your culture?

Having been adopted from China, I’ve had the great opportunity to learn about the culture and heritage of my parents, a hodgepodge of European origin, as well as explore my own roots as an Asian American. Over the years, I have found many friends who were also adopted from China, and together, we celebrate and explore what it means to be adopted Asian Americans, which often involves eating lots of amazing food!

How do you celebrate your culture with your friends & family?

I celebrate my Jewish culture with my family by attending synagogue, having Shabbat dinner, and teaching my daughter about Jewish values, traditions, and holidays. I love to cook traditional Jewish dishes and meals for my friends and family to enjoy.

What achievements are you most proud of?

The first achievement I am proud of is my work as a social worker with Holocaust survivors. Working with them was a way to learn more about my culture and history and was extremely fulfilling. The second achievement I am proud of is being a founding member of the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Leadership Committee at HRS. It is such an honor to work alongside this group of people!

Favorite HRS Memory?

Being a part of a fast-paced, ever-changing organization provides incredible opportunities to gain experience across multiple facets of our business. Since the early days of the organization, we collectively solved problems and tackled challenges, no matter how big or small, for the greater good of patients. Having the opportunity to influence culture in the earliest stages of the business, and to see where it is today, brings me incredible joy and gratitude to be a part of building something special.

What is a piece of advice you would give your younger self?

Don’t feel uncomfortable pushing the boundaries of the possible. Too often, we become complacent with the way things are, but questioning and re-defining the status quo provides a path to evolution and hopefully something greater at the end of the tunnel. I would also stress to my younger self the importance of creating value for others. Many times, we don’t have all the answers ourselves but have been taught or taken under the wing of a mentor whose sole intention was to better you and show you the way. Doing the same for others is incredibly important and fulfilling.

What is a piece of advice you would give to your younger self?

Never fear being the person you feel you are! And have fun being different :D

What is your favorite memory at HRS?

In July of 2022, four HRS team members attended the Health Choice Network Annual Board Conference – the meeting hosts a large group of community health centers and federally qualified health centers to share best practices and developments internally throughout the previous year. My favorite memory at HRS was watching our Chief Clinical Officer, Florence, present with Evara Health’s Chief Information Officer, Howard, and their program lead, Marie, on our RPM partnership and the impact we have on their community. These moments are why I love to work for Health Recovery Solutions!