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Meet the DEI Team

Our dedicated DEI team is working hard to increase resources that our member organizations can leverage to initiate or enhance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion related efforts in their organizations. By working collectively, the DEI team is currently assessing new ways to help elevate your DEI efforts.

Amber Lawrence, Vice President, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Amber LawrenceAmber has over 18 years of experience as a real estate/mortgage finance and non-profit association professional. In her current role as Vice President, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) for the Mortgage Bankers Association (MBA), she oversees organizational-wide DEI programs, assists teams in implementing equitable practices, partners with leadership to develop policies that promote inclusivity and belonging, and leads member-facing DEI initiatives.

Her work spans industries and sectors, collaborating with cross-functional teams to implement data-driven DEI strategies that yield measurable outcomes. With a deep understanding of DEI frameworks and hands-on experience in training, development, and policy advocacy, Amber is recognized for her ability to cultivate environments where diversity thrives.

In her previous role with the MBA, she was a core member of MBA Education's leadership team, managing the full suite of Residential and Commercial/Multifamily professional certification and designation programs-responsible for candidate matriculation, curriculum development, and examination processes. She also served as the primary liasion for the Society of Certified Mortgage Bankers (CMB). 

She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Howard University and an Executive Certification in Diversity Coaching, offered in partnership with Howard University and the Coach Diversity Institute. 

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Ashley Reid, Specialist, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

Ashley supports the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives and culture at MBA. She works with the DEI team and employee resource group EMBRACE to deepen the understanding and embodiment of equity and inclusion. Ashley brings a diverse wealth of experience and knowledge in community building, equity and inclusion, and community care.

Prior to joining MBA, Ashley utilized her facilitation and organizing skills at Kindred Communities where she partnered with school communities across the Washington, D.C. metro area to help address issues of inequity, and build deeper connections between staff, school leaders, and families to create a more inclusive and equitable community. She’s also served as an advocate and facilitator in various communities including Thomas Edison State University in Trenton, NJ, and the Marin Interfaith Council in Marin County, CA.


She holds a Bachelor of Science in Print Journalism from North Carolina A&T State University, Master of Arts in Management from Wake Forest School of Business, and a Master of Divinity from San Francisco Theological Seminary. 
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    Contact MBA’s DEI Team

    Interested in learning more about DEI resources and programs? Contact MBA's DEI Team.