At MDS, we foster an open creative environment where people from all backgrounds feel included and everyone can do their best work.
Diversity + Inclusion
MDS is a Women Business Enterprise (WBE), certified by the Massachusetts Supplier Diversity Office. We recognize a talented and diverse staff is essential to the success of our planning and design projects. We are proud these values are reflected in all levels of our firm.
We foster an open creative environment where people from all backgrounds feel included and everyone can do their best work. Every voice is welcomed, heard and respected because we believe each person’s unique skills, creative insights, and experiences enrich our planning and design approach.
Through our formal mentorship programs, we support and encourage the professional development of all staff. MDS also participates in a range of community outreach activities that engage youth considering careers in architecture and interior design.
We seek out participation of women, minorities, and local residents as consultants or subcontractors in all of our projects. We believe diverse and inclusive project teams strengthen our planning and design services and provide us with a strong link to the communities we serve. MDS is proud of our record of meeting and exceeding diversity team requirements and are committed to going beyond quotas to make a difference in the industry.
Codman Academy Charter Public School, Lithgow Building Renovation, LEED-Gold certified
Racial Justice + Equity
MDS condemns the systemic racism that permeates American society and the continuing inequities and acts of racial violence against Blacks and other People of Color, as shown by the murders of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery and countless other Black and Brown people for too many years. We are committed to creating a just and equitable workplace at MDS and pursuing racial justice in our profession and American society.
Ongoing Training + Advocacy — MDS will address bias in the firm, educate ourselves about systemic racism, and condemn racist and discriminatory actions and structures. MDS will advocate for racial equity and justice in our society, professional activities and relationships.
Designing for Equality — We acknowledge the historic role that architecture, planning and design have played in sustaining systemic racism in our society and the environments they have created. We will pursue design solutions to address inequities experienced in the lives of Black, Brown and other People of Color.
Engaging the Next Generation — MDS will strive for racial diversity within the firm and actively support programs that increase participation of People of Color and other under-represented communities in our profession, including outreach, mentoring, internships, job and educational opportunities, and volunteer activities.
Diverse Business Relationships — We will partner and collaborate with minority-owned professional, development and construction-related businesses and support their growth and increased capacities in the local economy and professional and governmental structures.
Client Collaboration — We are honored to serve many forward-thinking clients that value diversity and strive to foster more inclusive and equitable schools, workplaces, campuses and communities. MDS endeavors to create environments where people from all backgrounds are welcomed and included.