The IDEA (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility) Committee exists at TMS to ensure continuing progress is made toward our unique equity and diversity initiatives. We understand this work is a lifelong learning journey, and we are committed to learning together. 

Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA)

TMS IDEA NorthStar

The Music Settlement will lead, uphold and uplift the values of inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility (IDEA), as reflected in our activities, our board members, staff, faculty, volunteers, students and clients. This commitment will serve and strengthen our entire community, where culture, race, age, sexual orientation, and gender identity are celebrated, and physical abilities, skill level and ability to pay are not barriers.

Our IDEA Committee consists of TMS Faculty, Staff, and Board Members. 

• Dave Borocz-Johnson (Co-Chair)
• Rachel Bernstein
• Melanie Emig
• John Gibbon
• Tamar Gray
• Karen Heitlinger
• Chris Jenkins
• Paul Kirk
• Callista Koh
• Sydney Miller
• Eva Mondragon
• René Polin
• Geri Presti
• Obie Shelton (Co-Chair)
• Cynthia Szafraniec

The IDEA Committee works with TMS Board, staff and faculty to:

• Develop an annual action plan, setting priorities based on the strategic pillar of TMS’s Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Initiative
• Assist the TMS Board with incorporating equity and diversity into the organization’s strategic goals and objectives
• Participate in the design and implementation of the IDEA program
• Monitor the progress and process of the IDEA work