Tanisha Lewis, Vice President of Diversity, Inclusion, and Social Impact at the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, has been recognized for her outstanding contributions to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the aviation industry. ACI-NA, representing commercial service airports across the U.S. and Canada, presented her with the inaugural Excellence in Social Impact and Change Management Award during their Annual Conference and Exhibition.
This prestigious award highlights Lewis’s pivotal role in driving transformative change within the airport sector. Kevin M. Burke, ACI-NA President and CEO, lauded Lewis’s impact, stating, “Tanisha Lewis has played a pivotal role in not just addressing, but actively shaping solutions for DEI challenges within the airport sector.” He specifically commended her leadership of the ACI-NA DEI Working Group, which has been instrumental in producing tangible outcomes and fostering real change for the industry.
As Chair of the DEI Working Group, Lewis has been a guiding force in navigating the airport community through intricate DEIB efforts. These initiatives have tackled a wide range of challenges, encompassing hiring practices, community equity, and environmental justice, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of DEI within the sector.
“This award is not only a recognition of my accomplishments but also a reflection of the incredible leaders and peers both at the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority and the global aviation industry who have supported me along the way,” Tanisha Lewis shared. “I am deeply humbled and immensely thankful for this honor. My heartfelt thanks go to the many leaders in the aviation industry who have championed diversity, equity, and inclusion. Together, we are shaping the workforce of the future, driving innovation, and embracing change.”
The DEI Working Group’s report, released in June 2022, showcased the collective efforts of a diverse 27-member team representing airports of various sizes and roles across North America. With expertise spanning human resources, environmental management, and community investment, the group has created a valuable resource for the industry. The report not only highlights best practices but also serves as a practical guide for airports seeking to strengthen their DEI frameworks.
The Excellence in Social Impact and Change Management Award acknowledges visionary leaders like Lewis, who are dedicated to fostering sustainable change and advancing inclusivity within the aviation industry. Her commitment to DEI serves as an inspiration for the entire sector, paving the way for a more equitable and diverse future in aviation.
