DEI Symposium
Join us for an impactful and engaging DEI Symposium designed to empower and inspire. Our symposium aims to explore the transformative power of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the workplace. Through dynamic keynote sessions, interactive workshops, and insightful panel discussions, attendees will gain valuable insights into cultivating a more diverse, equitable, and inclusive work environment. Learn the significance of embracing diversity for innovation, discover strategies to promote equity and fairness, and explore how fostering an inclusive culture enhances productivity and employee engagement. Engage with industry leaders, experts, and peers to exchange ideas, share best practices, and cultivate actionable strategies to drive positive change in your organization. Don’t miss this opportunity to equip yourself with the tools and knowledge necessary to create a workplace that celebrates diversity, promotes equity, and fosters a culture of inclusivity for the benefit of all.
Programming Schedule
Friday (February 23)
Time
Program
Location
Speaker(s)
7:30 AM – 9:00 AM
Registration & Networking Breakfast
Foyer & Dallas B&C
9:00 AM – 9:20 AM
Opening Remarks
Dallas B&C
9:20 AM – 10:00 AM
Keynote
Join us as Kim explores fostering inclusive leadership, driving meaningful organizational change, and encouraging cultural shifts towards diversity, equity, and inclusion. Be inspired, empowered, and equipped to catalyze positive shifts within your organization. Don’t miss this impactful opening address that will outline the mission towards a more inclusive future.
Dallas B&C
Kim Cummings – Senior Vice President HR, Employee Experience, Children’s Health
10:00 AM – 10:15 AM
Break
10:15AM – 11:15 AM
Session 1: Creating Brave Spaces: Building Trust and Inclusivity
Discover the intricacies of creating safe spaces, fostering trust, and nurturing inclusivity. Join us for an engaging dialogue on building environments where everyone’s voice is heard, respected, and valued. Learn effective strategies to cultivate trust, bridge gaps, and create spaces that champion equity and justice for all.
Dallas B&C
Alise Cortez (Moderator) – Chief Ignition Officer, Gusto, Now!
Divya Smith (Panelist) – CEO, Ascending Avenue Investments
Karyne Nguyen (Panelist) – Lead Diversity Consultant – Strategic Segment Lead, AT&T
Rebecca Caleb (Panelist) – SVP, Technology Executive, Bank of America
11:15 AM – 11:30 AM
Break
11:30 AM – 12:30 PM
Session 2A: Dialogue Circles – Facilitating Tough Conversations
Let’s focus on effective techniques for fostering understanding, promoting empathy, and driving positive change through meaningful dialogue. Gain practical tools and insights to facilitate respectful, constructive, and impactful discussions that foster growth and mutual understanding. Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your skills in navigating tough conversations for a more connected community.
Dallas B&C
Tracy Underhill (Moderator) – Senior Learning and Development Consultant, National General Insurance
Barbara Giesing (Facilitator) – Owner, BAG HR Consulting
Jared Fitzpatrick (Facilitator) – Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, Signify Health
Yasmine Osborn (Facilitator) – Director, Diversity and Inclusion, Hearst
Session 2B: Multidimensional Inclusivity
Join us as we navigate and explore the complexities behind each individual. Delve into conversations on embracing diverse identities, amplifying voices, and advocating for equitable representation. Discover the power of advocacy that acknowledges the multidimensional aspects of identity and promotes a more inclusive society.
Dallas A
Lisa Ong – President & Founder, Wishing Out Loud, LLC
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Lunch
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Session 3A: Multigenerational Diversity: Age is Just a Number
Delve into a thought-provoking discussion that celebrates the unique perspectives and contributions of individuals across all age groups. Explore the inherent richness and value found in the experiences of every generation, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for age diversity. Prepare to be enlightened as we uncover the potential in bridging together different age demographics.
Dallas A
Christie Sithiphone (Moderator) – Vice President, Inclusion & Engagement, MMC
Alayna Thomas (Panelist) – Retention Strategist, Magnet Culture
Dr. Abby Hamilton (Panelist) – Director of Student Services, Everglades University
Sophia Wang (Panelist) – Global Strategy Manager, PPG Industries Inc – Aerospace Transparencies
Session 3B: Allyship & Advocacy for Marginalized Communities
Buckle down as we look into the crucial and transformative role of allies in championing marginalized communities. Explore the critical role of allies in supporting and advocating for marginalized communities. Gain valuable perspectives on fostering inclusivity, amplifying voices, and driving meaningful change through allyship. This interactive panel aims to equip attendees with actionable steps and practical tools to create inclusive spaces, elevate underrepresented voices, and advocate for equity and justice.
Dallas B&C
Brittani Hite (Moderator) – Founder + Strategic Director, Ethos Equity Consulting
Shalaina Abioye (Panelist) – Chief Executive, Human Rights Initiative of North Texas Inc.
Stephanie Drenka (Panelist) – Co-founder & Executive Director, Dallas Asian American Historical Society
Vidya Ayyr (Panelist) – Director, Community Social Impact, Parkland Health
2:30 PM – 2:45 PM
Break
2:45 PM – 3:45 PM
Session 4: ERG/BRG Roundtable
Engage in an interactive session focused on practical applications of today’s insights. Join us as we discuss how to translate our learnings into actionable strategies within Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) and Business Resource Groups (BRGs). Explore ways to implement inclusive practices and drive positive change within organizational settings.
We will also touch on how current legislation impacts the DEI space. Gain valuable perspectives on the intersection of policy, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Discover the implications of legislative changes and their effects on fostering diverse and inclusive workplaces.
Dallas B&C
Radhika Zaveri (Moderator) – Professor of Practice, SMU Cox School of Business
Alex Martinez (Panelist) – Global People Strategy & Talent Innovation Executive
Andrea Oputa (Panelist) – Senior Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Program Specialist, Federal Reserve Bank of Dallas
Winston Lam (Panelist) – DEI Senior Manager, McKesson
3:45 PM – 4:00 PM
Closing Remarks
Dallas B&C
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
DEI Symposium Evening Reception
Join us as we round out the DEI Symposium with an evening reception! Grab some small bites and connect with other folks invested in creating a community of belonging.
Foyer C
Attending NLA
If you’re eager to delve deeper into leadership development and broaden your horizons at our esteemed National Leadership Academy (NLA), we highly recommend joining the NAAAP community. As a member, you’ll unlock exclusive benefits, gain access to a vibrant network of professionals, and you’ll gain exclusive access to secure your ticket to our esteemed NLA event.. Elevate your leadership journey by becoming a NAAAP member today. Locate your local chapter and seize the opportunity to amplify your experience at NLA, where leadership excellence meets community empowerment.