Meet Mary MJ” McConner | Founder

We had the good fortune of connecting with Mary “MJ” McConner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Mary “MJ”, do you have a favorite quote or affirmation?
The quote I admire is by Thusanda Brown Duckett, who serves as the President and CEO of TIAA, suggesting: “Treat your life like a diversified portfolio.” This quote resonates across varied roles. For an entrepreneur, it epitomizes the essence of managing risks, encouraging a diverse range of ventures and innovations to ensure sustained growth and adaptability in a competitive market. As a CEO, this quote underscores the significance of diversifying strategies, talents, and investments to steer an organization in order to foster resilience and long-term success. As a family-centered individual, it emphasizes the need to balance and diversify time and attention among loved ones. Furthermore, as a community advocate, it stresses the importance of embracing diversity, promoting inclusive initiatives, and considering a range of perspectives to foster a vibrant and supportive community fabric. Embracing life’s diversity across these roles empowers one to navigate complexities with a holistic approach.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
At Inclusive Excellence Consulting, our commitment revolves around fostering diverse, equitable, and inclusive environments for organizations across various sectors. What sets us apart is our holistic approach, offering a comprehensive range of DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) services tailored to meet each client’s unique needs. We take pride in our emphasis on not just implementing strategies but also nurturing cultural transformation within companies. Our team’s diverse expertise and dedication to ongoing education ensure that our clients receive cutting-edge, impactful solutions. What excites us the most is witnessing the positive impact our work has on organizations, from enhancing workplace cultures to driving innovation through diverse perspectives.

The journey to establishing Inclusive Excellence Consulting wasn’t without its challenges. Building a consultancy from the ground up demanded perseverance and adaptability. Overcoming these hurdles required a focus on continuous learning, agile problem-solving, and building strong networks and partnerships within the industry and across different sectors. The key lessons learned along the way centered on the significance of the importance of listening intently to our clients’ unique needs. We discovered that fostering meaningful change takes time and requires a collaborative effort. Our brand’s story emphasizes our unwavering commitment to championing diversity, equity, and inclusion, not just as a business service but as a core value essential for societal progress. We aim to inspire a world where every organization, regardless of its size or industry, recognizes the transformative power of inclusion in driving success and societal impact.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Memphis, I’d craft an itinerary that blends history, culture, delicious food, and entertainment. The week would kick off with a visit to the impactful National Civil Rights Museum, which is a profound experience that centers the history of civil rights in America. To start our culinary journey, we’d head to the Beauty Shop Restaurant, which is a unique eatery with a vibrant atmosphere and delicious Southern cuisine.

Throughout the week, we’d explore various attractions. A visit to the iconic Orpheum Theater for a live show or performance would be on the agenda to immerse ourselves in the city’s arts and entertainment scene. For more historical insights, we’d explore Beale Street to enjooy the city’s rich musical heritage and vibrant energy.

Evenings would be spent discovering the city’s nightlife—perhaps hitting up lively spots like the Railgarten for drinks and good times. And to cap off the week, we would visit the city’s recently upgraded Tom Lee Park as this would offer the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable Memphis experience.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to send a heartfelt shoutout to my dear friend and mentor, Jay B. Myers, whose passing in 2023 left an irreplaceable void. Jay was my mentor through the SCORE Memphis program and a guiding light in my entrepreneurial journey. His unwavering dedication to supporting small business owners was truly exceptional. Jay selflessly invested his time, wisdom, and energy into nurturing our growth. He invested time in ensuring that I had the necessary skillset and mindset to navigate the complexities that come with entrepreneurship. He went above and beyond by offering encouragement and unwavering support. His kindness and commitment to empowering others will forever remain an inspiration to me and countless others whose lives he touched. Jay’s legacy lives on in the lessons he imparted and the profound impact he had on shaping our entrepreneurial spirits. Rest in peace, dear Jay, your wisdom and generosity will forever be cherished and remembered.

Website: www.ieconsultoingfirm.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-mcconner/