University of Phoenix Welcomes Over 5,000 Participants From 17 Countries at Its Third Annual Inclusive Leadership Summit and Career Fair
2024年6月27日 - 1:29AM
ビジネスワイヤ(英語)
Virtual event focused on the pivotal role of
transparency in fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and
belonging (DEIB)
University of Phoenix welcomed 5,145 participants from 17
countries to its third annual Inclusive Leadership Summit and
Career Fair, held June 11-14. Titled “Transparency as the Catalyst
for Belonging,” this year’s event featured thought leaders and
changemakers who provided valuable insights and practical
strategies for nurturing a culture of trust and openness. Summit
learners had the opportunity to earn two digital badges, “Inclusive
Leader: Transparency in Practice,” and “Fostering Authentic
Connections through Vulnerability,” which they could share on
LinkedIn, other social profiles or job boards.
“University of Phoenix has long recognized the importance of
diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in both our learning
and workplace environments,” stated Provost and Chief Academic
Officer John Woods, Ph.D. “This year, we seized the opportunity at
the summit to leverage transparency as a powerful catalyst for
cultural transformation, creating environments where every voice is
heard, valued, and respected. These efforts reflect our ongoing
commitment to transparency, and we are proud to continue
championing DEIB initiatives all year round.”
“By engaging with experts and thought leaders at the Inclusive
Leadership Summit, our participants gained not only knowledge but
practical tools to enact meaningful change within their
organizations,” shared Director of Student Diversity and Inclusion
for University of Phoenix Saray Lopez, MBA. “The discussions and
workshops emphasized the real-world impact of transparency in
promoting inclusivity and belonging. We are inspired by the
commitment shown by our community to drive these principles forward
and are excited to see the positive transformations that will
result.”
The event began with remarks and a discussion by opening keynote
speakers Dr. Nika White, CDE®, IOM, and Jennifer Brown, who
explored transparency in the workplace and how organizations
embracing transparency can harness the strengths and experiences of
their employees. The free, virtual event brought together leaders,
scholars, and professionals across multiple industries to explore
strategies to facilitate transparency in support of DEIB
efforts.
“As an attendee of the Inclusive Leadership Summit, I was deeply
impressed by the quality and breadth of the sessions,” states
University of Phoenix doctoral candidate and Program Co-Chair for
Student Organizations Student & Alumni Leadership Council
Stephanie Morgan-Harris. “From valuable insights on AI to guidance
on creating psychologically safe workspaces, every presentation was
enriching. The summit provided a space where I felt truly seen and
heard, particularly during discussions on belonging and mental
health in higher education. The authenticity and expertise of
speakers was inspiring, empowering me to lead with vulnerability
and strength.”
The second day of sessions focused on “Leading with Empathy:
Race, Accessibility, Ageism, and LGBTQ+ Inclusion Strategies.”
Attendees gained insights into fostering inclusivity in diverse
environments and learned how empathy-driven leadership can drive
positive organizational change. Topics covered practical methods
for defining professional boundaries while promoting transparency
and vulnerability to support a sense of belonging.
The final day of the Inclusive Leadership Summit explored the
intersection of AI, DEIB, and leadership transparency. The
discussions focused on proactive strategies to bridge gaps within
communities, ensuring equal access to digital technologies, and
leveraging AI for positive societal impact. Sessions emphasized
innovation and collaboration to build connections and redefine
success in personal branding by emphasizing authenticity.
Tamroen Brewer, a University of Phoenix student enrolled in the
Criminal Justice Administration program who attended the summit and
career fair, says it was a transformative experience for her. “From
bonding over relatable experiences with keynote speakers to gaining
insight on how to develop the leader in ourselves, the Inclusive
Leadership Summit changed the trajectory of my being,” she states.
“The way faculty, staff, and alumni took time to pour into us
really shows the way they believe in our ability to be a success.
The innovative strategies I learned to increase awareness,
encourage growth, and address inequities have truly inspired me and
expanded my ability to reach new heights.”
Complementing the focus on transparency, this year’s event also
featured the second annual Workforce Diversity Leaders Seminar.
This seminar served as a platform for advancing and empowering
leaders of employee resource groups (ERGs) or business resource
groups (BRGs), their sponsors, and emerging leaders in workforce
diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging. Participants engaged
in facilitated discussions on workplace transparency and developed
skills essential for becoming effective, inclusive leaders.
Senior Change Management Consultant and Professor Tretha Harris
expressed her gratitude for the speakers and sessions that keep her
coming back to the Inclusive Leadership Summit year after year.
“You all continue to add value in my professional life, and I
wanted to acknowledge your brilliance and your greatness,” she
shares. “The summit was so awesome. This is my third year attending
and each time I am stretched to do better, learn more, and take
action. Thank you so very much for all you do for University of
Phoenix and the broader community.”
Recordings from the Inclusive Leadership Summit sessions will be
posted on the summit webpage.
About University of Phoenix
University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance
their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world.
Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning,
skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree
programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students
more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while
balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit
phoenix.edu.
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MEDIA CONTACT: Michele Mitchum University of Phoenix
michele.mitchum@phoenix.edu