Join us as we kick off the 2024 Charlotte Mecklenburg DEI Conference with pre-conference registration, seamless hotel check-in, and a warm reception to the vibrant Charlotte area! This highly anticipated event is packed with engaging networking opportunities and lively social activities. Don’t miss the special performance by the renowned Casa de la Cultura, a true highlight of the evening. Light refreshments will be provided as part of your conference registration package.
Brian Cunningham, Committee Chair
Brian Cunningham, Committee Chair
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, included with your registration package. During this time, attendees can complete their registration and check-in.
Master of Ceremony - Fly Ty and Jacinda Presentation of Colors - Charlotte Fire Department Singing of the National Anthem - Eboni Jenkins-Ulmer Invocation - TBD Welcome to Charlotte - Mayor Pro Tem Dante Anderson and Council Member Lawana Mayfield Opening Remarks - Brian Cunningham, Committee Chair, City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County Dignitaries
Visit Vendor displays, Networking
"Cultivating Inclusion: Transforming Experiences into Action"In this engaging keynote speech, we will explore the fundamental principles of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and their profound impact on individuals and organizations. Attendees will gain insights into the benefits of fostering a diverse and inclusive environment, including enhanced creativity, improved performance, and stronger community ties. The session will feature an interactive activity where participants can share their personal experiences with DEI, facilitating open dialogue and deeper understanding. To conclude, we will engage in a collaborative training exercise focused on conflict resolution, equipping attendees with practical strategies to address and overcome challenges in their DEI journeys. Join us in transforming diverse experiences into actionable solutions for a more inclusive future.
FlyTy & Jacinda
Enjoy a "Charlotte BBQ" buffet, included with your registration package.
Our breakout sessions offer personalized, in-depth experiences on key topics, providing opportunities to engage with experts, participate in discussions, and explore areas that support your professional and personal growth. Select sessions that align with your interests."Courageous Conversations" - Dr. Michael Cunningham and Sam Heaton "Health and Wellness" - Anthony Rentas"You be You" - Darryl White"ADA Compliance" - Josh Van Kampen and Tina Samuel Priestly
Tina Samuel-Priestley
Josh Van Kampen
Darryl White Sr.
Anthony Rentas
Sam D. Heaton
Michael Cunningham
Break, Visit Vendor displays, Networking
Our breakout sessions offer personalized, in-depth experiences on key topics, providing opportunities to engage with experts, participate in discussions, and explore areas that support your professional and personal growth. Select sessions that align with your interests."Courageous Conversations" - Dr. Michael Cunningham and Sam Heaton "Health and Wellness" - Anthony Rentas"You be You" - Darryl White
Darryl White Sr.
Anthony Rentas
Sam D. Heaton
Michael Cunningham
Mix and Mingle at Queen Park Social - 4125 Yancey Road, Charlotte, NC 28217 *Meal NOT Included in Registration Fee* Join us for an evening of fun at Queen Park Social! Shuttles will be provided to the venue, where we’ve reserved one of the large rooms. Light hors d'oeuvres will be served, and additional food and drinks can be purchased separately. Enjoy group activities such as bowling, pool, cornhole, and ping pong. Please note that some activities may have additional costs and are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Enjoy a complimentary breakfast buffet, included with your registration package.
"Moving from conceptual/theoretical frameworks and to sustainable Communities of Practice"
Kellen Nixon
Break, Visit Vendor displays, Networking
Equity removes barriers, leveling the playing field, and can strengthen an organization's efforts to recruit and retain a diverse workforce. A focus on equity work will attract people from historically disadvantaged and marginalized communities to your organization. Fostering inclusion and belonging will keep them there. While equity is essential, without a true sense of inclusion and belonging, people aren't likely to stay. In the public sector, where we are often unable to compete on salaries, it is this sense of being part of something that matters, being seen, feeling connected, supported and proud that creates the optimal workplace. In this session we will start with equity and evolve the discussion to inclusion and belonging and the role that leaders play in creating the workplace that attracts, supports and retains talent. During this session, participants will learn: •What equity, inclusion and belonging are, and why they matter •The key elements of inclusion and belonging •How senior leaders set the tone •How managers carry the culture •How peers drive inclusion and belonging
Stephanie Reed
Enjoy a "Latin Fare" buffet, included with your registration package.
"Your Thoughts Shape your Words: Mastering Effective Communication" - Stephanie Briscoe"Inclusion is not a bad word. It’s a leadership Style" - Bailey Martin"Neurodiversity Inclusion and the ADA" - Haley Moss
Haley Moss
Bailey Martin
Stephanie Briscoe
Break, Visit Vendor displays, Networking
"Your Thoughts Shape your Words: Mastering Effective Communication" - Stephanie Briscoe"Inclusion is not a bad word. It’s a leadership Style" - Bailey Martin"Neurodiversity Inclusion and the ADA" - Haley Moss
Haley Moss
Bailey Martin
Stephanie Briscoe
Get ready for a night of brain-teasing fun and friendly competition! Gather your team or join one when you arrive, and put your knowledge to the test across a range of exciting trivia categories. Whether you're a trivia buff or just looking for a fun way to unwind, this is the perfect chance to connect, laugh, and compete for some great prizes!
"Thinking Jurisdiction: Mind Geography" Our physical brains are wired according to our life experiences. Our MINDS though are located in the brain. This is the place that our will, volition, and discretion is operative. Think of it like this "we all come from somewhere, are in the sample often at the same time, and still have a driving purpose that will take us to other places." As we encounter people along the way it's significant to hold all these aspects in front of us mentally, in the aim and intention of respect and acceptance. NOW...what's our minds GPS?...MIND GEOGRAPHY
Deon Jones
Break, Visit Vendor displays, Networking
Panel Discussion: "LGBTQ+ Allyship & Intersectionality – Fostering Inclusion & Belonging in Our Communities" - PFLAG Charlotte "Inclusive Leadership Workshop on Cultivating Diverse and Collaborative Teams" - Stosaic
Mollie Burkholder
Chris Kline
Kelvin Brim
Enjoy a sandwich and wraps buffet, included with your registration package.
Panel Discussion: "LGBTQ+ Allyship & Intersectionality – Fostering Inclusion & Belonging in Our Communities" - PFLAG Charlotte "Inclusive Leadership Workshop on Cultivating Diverse and Collaborative Teams" - Stosaic
Mollie Burkholder
Chris Kline
Kelvin Brim
