WMPMI IN-PERSON/VIRTUAL Dinner Meeting: The untold truths of DEIB

Business Acumen

WMPMI's chapter meeting is a two-PDU event featuring two presentation sessions linked by networking time and dinner.   

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ANNOUNCING NEW EVENT LOCATION 

The Grand Rapids Chamber 

250 Monroe Ave NW Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Free Parking in Vandenberg Parking Lot for Event Attendees

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DEIB Exposed: The Untold Truths of Inclusion & Equity

February Dinner Agenda:
5:15 PM – Doors Open
5:30 PM – Panel Discussion - DEIB Exposed: The Untold Truths of Inclusion & Equity
6:30 PM – Dinner Break (30 Minutes)
7:00 PM – Closing Keynote - Inclusion Starts with You – Cultivating Personal Accountability in Advancing DEIB
8:00 PM - Event Close
 
-There is a virtual option for those who can't attend in person.
 
Session 1
Panel Discussion: DEIB Exposed: The Untold Truths of Inclusion & Equity
Join us for an insightful and thought-provoking evening as we explore the complexities and realities of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB). This engaging panel discussion will uncover hidden challenges, share personal experiences, and provide actionable strategies to foster truly inclusive environments within organizations and project teams.
 
Through a dynamic conversation with industry leaders, we will delve into the untold truths of DEIB, addressing misconceptions, identifying barriers, and highlighting opportunities to drive meaningful change. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of how to incorporate DEIB principles into their leadership approach and create workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.
 
Key Highlights:
  • Expert panelists sharing real-world insights and experiences.
  • Audience engagement through live polling, interactive scenarios, and Q&A.
  • Practical takeaways for integrating DEIB into project management and team dynamics.
 
Panelist
  • Rodney Salvage, Vice President of Talent and Inclusion, Grand Rapids Chamber
  • Dr. Danyelle Gregory, Associate Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, Western Michigan University
  • Joe Legatz, Talent Development Leader, Legatz Consulting
  • Rebecca Dakan, Hispanic Forum Site Leader, GE Aerospace
  • David Good, Professional Coach, The International Friend Connection
  • Nicholette Driggs, Accessibility Consultant & Business Development Coordinator, Disability Advocates of Kent County
  • Facilitator: Jill Arehart, TEKsystems
 
Session 2
Closing Keynote: Rodney Savage, VP of Talent & Inclusion, Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce
Inclusion Starts with You: Cultivating Personal Accountability in Advancing DEIB 
Emphasizing the role every individual plays in fostering inclusion and equity within their teams and communities.

 

Speakers

Event Facilitator:  Jill Arehart

Becki Dakan
Buyer, GE Aerospace & Hispanic and Latino Alliance Lead
Becki combines her expertise in procurement with her passion for DEI, championing cultural inclusion both within and beyond her professional realm.

Nicholette Driggs
Accessibility Consultant and Business Development Coordinator for Disability Advocates of Kent County
Nicholette champions accessibility, inclusion, and community empowerment.

David Good
The International Friend Connection
David is a Professional Coach for the International Friend Connection

Dr. Danyelle Gregory
Associate Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion, Western Michigan University
With a rich background in multicultural student services and diversity programs, Dr. Gregory leads initiatives aimed at dismantling systemic barriers in higher education.

Joe Legatz
Talent Development Specialist
Joe is renowned for his extensive experience in learning and development, specializing in performance improvement and systems thinking to foster organizational success.

Rodney Savage
Vice President of Talent and Inclusion, Grand Rapids Chamber
Rodney oversees the Chamber's talent and inclusion initiatives, focusing on leadership programming and diversity efforts to enhance regional business communities.

 

It is no longer possible to register for this event

It is no longer possible to register for this event

Information

Type of category: Dinner Meetings

Type of activity: Business Acumen

Date: February 11th, 2025

Hour: 5:30PM to 8:00PM

Number of PDUs: 2

Price

StandardMember: $45.00

StandardNon-member: $55.00

Location

Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce

250 Monroe Ave NW #150
Grand Rapids, MI, 49503