Joan Chaya

Joan Chaya, MA, (She/Her), is Senior Director, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Montefiore Medical Center. She is responsible for the development and oversight of Montefiore Medical Center’s governance infrastructure for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Working with leadership teams and departments, Ms. Chaya identifies new diversity and inclusion strategies and programs. She has also partnered with the Einstein Office of Diversity to publish and update a department guide for launching DEI Committees.

After completing her Bachelor of Arts in psychology at Montclair State University, Ms. Chaya attended Kean State University, earning her Master of Arts in human behavior and organizational psychology. She continued her professional training, earning a certificate in Advanced Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations. Ms. Chaya is a senior certified professional (SHRM-SCP) with the Society for Human Resource Management and a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner.

Ms. Chaya’s research studies key motivators for healthcare professionals. She has shared her work through presentations and journal articles.

During her career, Ms. Chaya has held various roles in Human Resources and Workforce Planning. She has developed strategic workforce practices to advance diversity and inclusion initiatives, change management, employee engagement and retention, employer branding, and healthcare competencies. Prior to joining Montefiore Medical Center, Ms. Chaya led the development and implementation of a comprehensive workforce development and cultural competency strategy for Montefiore Hudson Valley Performing Provider System.