DEI Speaker Series

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Prosperity, Power, and Progress

Presented by Norman Bristol Colón

On Tuesday, October 3, 2023, we welcomed Norman Bristol Colón, Pennsylvania’s Chief Diversity Officer, for a celebration of the rich history and diverse culture of Hispanic and Latin American communities.

Disability Allyship, Inclusion, & Etiquette

A Fireside Chat with Emily Ladau

We engaged in an enlightening conversation with author and Disability Rights Activist Emily Ladau!

This discussion addressed how to:

  • Appropriately think, talk, and ask about disability
  • Recognize and avoid ableism
  • Practice good disability etiquette
  • Ensure accessibility becomes a standard practice, from everyday communication to planning




Empowering Pride Panel Discussion

Cultivating Inclusive Leadership to Create Lasting Change

We hosted a panel of nationally recognized LGBTQIA+ thought leaders for a discussion on how inclusive leadership has the ability to create true and lasting change. Our panelists came with a wealth of experiences and insights to share. Brian Sims became the first out LGBT member of the Pennsylvania General Assembly when he was elected in 2011. He has extensive experience lecturing internationally about the policy and legal implications of diversity and the modern LGBTQ+ civil rights movement. Deja Lynn Alvarez is a trans Latina with expertise in public health, community engagement and LGBTQIA+ public policy. Nellie Fitzpatrick is a non-binary attorney and the former Director of the Philadelphia Mayor’s Office of LGBTQ Affairs who also served as a prosecutor in the Philadelphia Special Victims Unit.

 

Held on Friday, June 23, 2023

LGBTQIA+ Fundamentals

Mazzoni Center

Leading with Courage: Breaking through Barriers and Persevering through the Challenges 

Presented by Kristen Gibbons Feden, Esq.

Hear from this accomplished attorney as she shares her journey of perseverance and courage in breaking through barriers that many women face in the workplace and society. Kristen's experience as a former prosecutor right here in Montgomery County, her work with survivors of sexual abuse, and her commitment to leading with courage will inspire you to never lose hope in the face of challenges. 

Held on Friday, March 3, 2023

Unity and Inclusivity for Stronger Communities: A Hispanic/Latino Perspective

Presented by Maritza Padua

The Hispanic/Latino population nearly doubled over the past decade, making it the fastest growing population in Montgomery County. We hosted an hour to focused on:

  • Appreciating the beauty and vastness of the Hispanic/Latino cultures and their contributions to society.
  • Promoting the recruitment, retention, and career advancement of Hispanic employees.
  • Creating a more inclusive environment and sense of belonging for those we serve.

Held on Wednesday, November 30, 2022