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To unite people, institutions, and industries through belonging, accountability, and shared growth.
A Rhode Island where equity is embedded into every system and belonging is the standard, not the exception.
Belonging | Accountability | Collaboration | Innovation | Justice
Featuring Vanessa Vigil, Kevin Matta, and board members
Founded by Linda Newton, a visionary leader and lifelong advocate for inclusion, Diversity and Inclusion Professionals (DAIP) was created to unite Rhode Island’s equity practitioners, community leaders, and organizational changemakers under a shared mission to make belonging the standard across every sector.
Linda recognized early on that meaningful change requires collective effort and courageous collaboration. Her vision was simple but transformative: to create a space where those advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion could connect, learn, and lead together.
What began as a grassroots network of professionals exchanging ideas has evolved into a statewide hub for connection, learning, and impact. Today, DAIP stands as one of Rhode Island’s most trusted networks for DEI practitioners and leaders committed to embedding equity in policy, practice, and culture.
Under the leadership of Executive Director Vanessa Vigil and board President Kevin Matta, DAIP has expanded its reach and deepened its impact through strategic partnerships, consulting, and cross-sector collaboration. From healthcare and education to corporate and nonprofit spaces, DAIP builds bridges that turn inclusive ideals into measurable, sustainable outcomes.
We believe in collective progress — that when we build community and share knowledge, we transform systems.
Linda Newton founded DAIP with a deep belief that progress begins with connection. As a seasoned diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner and respected community leader, Linda brought together Rhode Island professionals who were often working in silos educators, HR leaders, nonprofit executives, and advocates to create a shared space for growth, accountability, and belonging.
Her leadership helped shape DAIP’s core philosophy: that inclusion is both a personal practice and a collective responsibility.
Linda’s impact continues to guide DAIP’s evolution today. Her work laid the foundation for what has become a thriving statewide movement, empowering organizations and individuals to reimagine how equity is lived, measured, and sustained.
Through every event, partnership, and initiative, DAIP continues to honor Linda’s commitment to creating spaces where authentic dialogue sparks real change and where belonging is not just discussed — it’s practiced.
Diversity and Inclusion Professionals (DAIP) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to providing timely educational programs, practical resources, and networking opportunities for professionals across various sectors. We believe that inclusive leadership and equitable practices are essential for organizational success and community well-being.
Kevin Matta (he, him, his) is a strategic differentiator, comfortable challenging the status quo, and brings both passion and experience to ensure client success and human engagement with his brilliant ability to make connections.
Kevin’s interest in justice, equity, diversity, and inclusion work developed as he witnessed his parents encounter inequities and injustices while navigating the American healthcare and workplace landscape. His passion for this work continues to be strengthened by the systemic injustices people around the world continue to experience.
Kevin serves as president of DAIP’s board of directors.