2023 Diversity Summit

Connecting Government with Pennsylvania’s Small Diverse Businesses.

City & State PA’s 3rd Annual Diversity Summit will offer industry executives, public sector leaders, and academics a half day conference dedicated to fostering business partnerships between the state and local government, prime contractors, and small diverse businesses (SDBs). Find out what it takes to thrive in Pennsylvania’s complex and competitive procurement arena by connecting with key government agencies, prime contractors and state & local representatives at the City & State PA 2023 Diversity Summit.

8:00 AM	Doors Open + Breakfast
9:00 AM	Welcome Remarks by Keir Bradford-Grey, Esq. Partner at Montgomery McCracken Walker and Rhoads
9:10 AM	Keynote Remarks by Reggie McNeil, Secretary, Department of General Services Introduction by Grace Rustia, Associate State Director of Multicultural Outreach, AARP Pennsylvania
9:20 AM	Sponsor Remarks: Mitch Vidovich, Vice President of Government Affairs, Independence Blue Cross
9:25 AM	Panel 1: The Future of Pennsylvania’s SDBs in the New Administration Since 1987, Pennsylvania has focused on breaking barriers by implementing one of the most robust Small Diverse Business (SDB) programs in the nation. Nevertheless, the economic impact of the pandemic, inflation, and rising interest rates have been more acutely and disproportionately felt by business owners from communities of color, as well as women, veterans, and the disabled. In this panel, we will explore how the Shapiro administration will work with the PA Bureau of Diversity, Inclusion & Small Business Opportunities (BDISBO)and keep its promises to level the playing field for more small and diverse businesses throughout the commonwealth. What are some of the roadblocks that have kept small businesses from participating in this program, and what role can Pennsylvania's labor community and government officials play in providing these businesses with the tools they need to succeed? Moderated by: Lauren Footman, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Delaware County, PA Kerry L. Kirkland, Deputy Secretary for Diversity, Inclusion and Small Business Opportunities, Pennsylvania Department of General Services. Lisa Sanford, Director, Diversity, Inclusion & Small Business Opportunities, Pennsylvania Department of General Services Jason Evans, Manager of Responsible Sourcing and Supplier Diversity at TD Bank Malcolm Kenyatta, State Representative, General Assembly Kenyatta James, PAGE Director, Economy League
10:30 AM	Sponsor Remarks: Sheila Alexander-Reid, Executive Director, PHL Diversity, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau
10:35 AM	Panel 2: Workforce Diversity: How can we do better? Pennsylvania’s public and private sectors are working harder than ever to implement inclusive hiring practices and foster a diverse workforce across the Commonwealth. These win-win strategies not only promote better quality outcomes; they help organizations to remain competitive. What else can Pennsylvania’s key business sectors do to foster diversity and inclusion in the workforce? This panel will review the latest programs, projects and market-specific opportunities within tech, healthcare, education, construction, hospitality and more. What are some innovative ways our government leaders can address disparities in diversity across our state and ensure our existing initiatives are further embraced? Moderated By: Teresa M. Lundy, TML Communications Cherelle Moore, Talent Recruitment and Retention Specialist, City of Philadelphia Office of Diversity Equity and Inclusion. Chad Dion Lassiter, MSW, Executive Director, Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission. Aaysha Noor, Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, The GIANT Company Kenyatta James, Director, Philadelphia Anchors for Growth and Equity, Economy League of Greater Philadelphia Nicole Tyler, Director of Equitable Transportation, PA Department of Transportation
11:50 AM	Closing Remarks
12:00 PM	Event Conclusion