Greetings,
Welcome to the 15th Annual Diversity & Leadership Conference. It’s an exciting time for the National Diversity Council as we continue to grow and adapt while remaining committed to our mission. That is why this year’s conference theme is “Inclusion: The Time is Now.”
Our organization is facing many changes at a time of greater understanding of the value of inclusion in the workplace both at the national and global context. The world of D&I is an exciting area. The National Diversity Council will continue to inspire and bring people together in forums like the Diversity & Leadership Conference.
It is a great joy to welcome back esteemed General Colin Powell, USA (Ret.), one of our most admired keynotes for the past 10 years. I am also thrilled to welcome the 44th President of the United States, President Barack Obama, for the first time. It is a stellar lineup of extraordinary, inclusive leaders who will no doubt inspire all of us to continue the work we do every day.
As the voice for diversity and inclusion, we will continue to advocate for organizations to elevate their commitment to inclusive workplaces. We are committed to greater action as we inspire the next generation of leaders to think more broadly and globally.
Our NDC team and corporate partners have continued to meet the challenges of our field while reflecting on the journey that will continue. We should all be proud of where we are today and excited about where we are headed. Yet there is still so much work to be done and this is why we call on you to join us and become involved with our efforts.
Thank you for attending our conference and bringing your expertise to this year’s conversation. With your leadership, we hope you will help us continue to shape the future of diversity, inclusion, and equity.
My deepest appreciation goes out to all of our speakers, distinguished keynotes, volunteers, and board of directors who are joining us from across the country.
With greatest respect and gratitude,
Angeles M. Valenciano
Chief Executive Officer
National Diversity Council