Forum Session - The State of Diversity and the Color of Change in American Business

The latest research finds that companies in the top quartile for gender or racial and ethnic diversity are more likely to have financial returns above their national industry medians. Companies in the bottom quartile are statistically less likely to achieve above-average returns*. These are the new realities of global business that make inclusion and diversity a competitive advantage for American business. The National Urban League has for decades been working with corporate partners to ensure they are diverse and inclusive in meaningful and impactful ways.  What are the best practices? How are companies dealing with a rapidly changing customer base and new ways of doing business? Executives will join us for this important discussion on the state of diversity and how to continue to make the case and push for diversity and inclusion in American Business.

Rhonda Crichlow, Senior Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer, Charter Communications

Stephanie Wilson, Partner, Reed Smith LLP

Ronald C. Parker, President and CEO, The Executive Leadership Council (ELC)

Rohini Anand, Ph.D., SVP Corporate Responsibility & Global Chief Diversity Officer, Sodexo

Eduardo “Ed” Martinez, President, UPS Foundation and Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer, UPS

Cid Wilson, President & CEO, Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR)

State Senator Jamilah Nasheed, Representative 5th District, Missouri Senate

Valerie Irick Rainford, Head of Advancing Black Leaders & Diversity Advancement Strategies - JPMorgan Chase & Co.; Author - "Until the Brighter Tomorrow"

Ronald C. Parker, President and CEO, The Executive Leadership Council (ELC)