In between packing my office for NCTA's upcoming move, I've had a chance to digest the many great meetings and events during Diversity Week.  I have also talked with a handful of colleagues from various parts of the cable industry.  I hear two different themes associated with the post buzz discussion.  The first camp feels that the diversity gap still exists in the executive boards including a gender gap in the technology sector.  The other camp sees the progress of the last ten years and recognizes there is much to do.  I think it comes down to whether you view the glass as half-empty or half-full.

One of the great benefits to tenure is an ability to have some perspective outside of the day-to-day routine.  To take a look from a more strategic perspective.  Track and follow colleagues as they advance.  Over the past 11 years I have seen individuals climb, others reinvent themselves and those that have faded away.  We've heard it a million times, "The only thing constant is change".  The cable industry has not been immune to change.  There are industries, companies and individual players that I would have never imagined as part of our policy agenda.  Sure we have very few minorities and women in the executive boards but we do have many waiting in the wings.  I have had the opportunity to mentor and advise a dozen women during the last two years.  Of the twelve women, two have left our industry.  The remaining ten have all been promoted to greater responsibilities and financial compensation packages over a span of two years.  I too, am a recipient of the latter scenario.  Call me an eternal optimist but I do believe that the diverse talent pool has been created.  Now, begins the dance!  Staying relevant, keeping up on the core business and being able to sift for opportunitites in those gray areas.  My words of encouragement to all, be patient and keep your eyes open.  Listen and keep learning.