Rebecca Lowell Edwards leads Global Communications at Schneider Electric. In this role, she fosters awareness and understanding of how the company is leading the digital transformation of energy and automation in homes, buildings, data centers, infrastructure and industries.
Previous to Schneider Electric, she was Director of Communications and Public Affairs at the International Olympic Committee working to strengthen the Olympic movement globally and drive gender equity in the sporting world.
Rebecca shares why she’s so proud to be part of Schneider Electric and to serve as the Global D&I Board Sponsor of the Schneider Electric LGBT+ and Allies network.
Embracing the golden rule of respect
“When I was a teenager, I took a trip to the United Nations for a week-long course on diplomatic relations. The program made a lasting impression on me because I decided to pursue my undergraduate studies in foreign service,” explains Rebecca.
“The most salient and lasting memory was turning the corner down a majestic, carpeted hallway to encounter Norman Rockwell’s mural of the Golden Rule. The half-ton mosaic depicts 65 people of different ages and cultural backgrounds standing together with the words “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you” inscribed in sparkly lettering.”
Meeting people from different backgrounds
“Most religious and cultural traditions have some form of the golden rule. The words may differ, but the sentiment is the same. People deserve respect—it is human nature no matter where you are born and raised—and the world is a better place when we treat one another with dignity. Being of mixed race, I am keenly aware of how perceived differences can create barriers to understanding and acceptance,” adds Rebecca.
“Sometimes it is clear to me that people are making assumptions based on the way I look. It sometimes catches me by surprise. If it opens a pathway to exchange ideas and learn something, I am delighted. I’m a curious person, so I pursue opportunities to meet people of backgrounds different from mine. I don’t simply tolerate difference—I embrace it.”
Living up to diversity and inclusion values
“Even before there were mountains of research proving the creative and productivity benefits of diversity and inclusion, I was on board – perhaps because my biological makeup didn’t leave me with much of a choice. For that, I’m grateful. I have benefited from exposure to people who are different from me in my personal and work life,” she says.
“That’s why I am so happy to be a part of Schneider Electric and to serve as the Global D&I Board Sponsor of the Schneider LGBT+ and Allies network. Living up to the diversity and inclusion values of Schneider is essential as the world needs more organizations than the UN to meet the complex challenges before us,” adds Rebecca.
“Rockwell conceived of the piece for the United Nations in early 1950s while he said he was, “waiting for the delegates to straighten out the world…” Instead of leaving it all up to the UN, I am filled with conviction that we will accomplish amazing things at Schneider when we each bring our whole selves to work.”
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Disclosure: Where Women Work researches and publishes insightful evidence about how its paid member organizations support women's equality.