The Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) is excited to announce its annual summit - an inspiring event dedicated to promoting workplace diversity and fostering inclusion. This year’s theme is focused on creating a culture of inclusive excellence.
Our goal is that the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit will become an invaluable platform for industry leaders, experts, and professionals to share insights, best practices, and success stories on embracing diversity and creating an inclusive culture.
This year's summit will feature thought-provoking keynote speeches and interactive workshops to equip attendees with knowledge and tools to drive positive change and maximize their organization's potential.
EVENT DETAILS
Wednesday, October 18, 2023
8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Executive Conference and Banquet Center | 205 Executive Drive, Newark, DE 19702
REGISTRATION
The event has reached capacity; therefore, registration is now closed. If you would like to be placed on the waitlist, please email the Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion. If a space becomes available, you will be notified via email.
If you previously registered and cannot attend, please contact the Division of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion as soon as possible.
EVENT SCHEDULE
8:00 am - 8:55 am
Registration and Continental Breakfast
9:00 am - 9:15 am
Welcome
Richard M. Potter, Jr.
Chief Diversity Officer, Department of Human Resources
9:15 am - 10:00 am
Dr. Janice Bell Underwood is the government-wide Chief Diversity Officer for the Biden-Harris administration. With a career spanning federal and state roles, academia, and leadership in diversity, equity and inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA), Dr. Underwood is a national expert and leader in the DEIA field. As the Director of the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM), she plays a vital role in guiding federal agencies in implementing DEIA initiatives. Don't miss the chance to hear from this renowned #DEIAvenger and thought leader!
Dr. Janice Underwood
Director, Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, (ODEIA)
The United States Office of Personnel Management
10:00 am - 10:10 am
Break
10:10 am - 11:10 am
This workshop aims to provide participants with insights and strategies to recognize their unconscious biases. Attendees will leave with practical steps to improve their self-awareness and engagement with others. By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to (1) Describe What Unconscious Bias Is, (2) Recognize Some of Their Unconscious Biases, and (3) Identify Strategies to Manage Unconscious Biases.
Tracey Connolly, Ed.D.
Training Administrator II, Department of Human Resources
11:10 am - 12:10 pm
The Delaware Division of Historical and Cultural Affairs is dedicated to fostering inclusivity across all aspects of our agency, including staff development, programming, community engagement, and interpretation. We recognize that this work begins with each one of us. Identity impacts how one moves through the world - - people’s impressions and treatment of themselves and how others perceive and treat them. Understanding and embracing identity can be empowering and affirming.
Amy Golden-Shepherd
Deputy Director, Department of State
12:10 pm - 1:10 pm
Lunch
12:30 pm
1:10 pm - 2:10 pm
In an increasingly diverse and intersectional world, it is crucial that we prioritize disability inclusion and empower individuals with disabilities to fully participate in all aspects of society. Disability inclusion benefits not only those with disabilities but also promotes a more equitable and inclusive society for everyone. Achieving true disability inclusion requires advocates, activists, and allies to raise awareness, challenge barriers, and promote meaningful change. Disability advocates actively support individuals with disabilities in obtaining their rights, accessing employment, healthcare, and education. Allies recognize the importance of creating an inclusive society and actively work to dismantle ableism.
Candace Henry, M.S.
Director, Disability Resource Center, Salisbury University
2:10 pm - 3:10 pm
People with disabilities are a vital part of society and the workforce. This session will help participants understand more about disabilities, workplace accommodations, and common barriers to access using concrete examples, activities, and resources. Most importantly, participants will gain a better understanding of how to be a respectful and an effective ally.
Emmanuel Jenkins
Community Relations Officer
Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Developmental Disabilities Council
Rachel Engle
Administrative Officer
Department of Safety and Homeland Security, Developmental Disabilities Council
3:10 pm - 4:10 pm
In today’s diverse and inclusive society, creating spaces and opportunities that accommodate everyone, regardless of their abilities, is essential. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is a landmark piece of legislation that is pivotal in ensuring equal rights and access for individuals with disabilities. In this session, participants will delve into America’s evolution with ADA, specifically focusing on the challenges and paradigm shifts that have shaped the landscape of diversity and inclusion for individuals with disabilities. We will discuss the main features of the ADA and stress the importance of promoting human fairness and fostering a more inclusive and accessible society.
Tom Johnson, MHS
Training Admin I, Departments of Health and Social Services and Human Resources
4:10 pm - 4:30 pm
Closing & Evaluation
EVENT MATERIALS
Workshop 1: Consciously Overcoming Unconscious Bias
Workshop 2: Understanding Identities
Workshop 3: Supporting Disability Inclusion: Advocate, Ally, and Activist
Workshop 4: (Almost) Everything You Ever Wanted to Know About Disabilities
Workshop 5: The Americans with Disabilities Act Past, Present, Future
