Speakers
Tittle
Alex Tittle is the Senior Director for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Medica. In this role, he is responsible for the strategy, execution and administration, program performance, and communication related to Medica’s diversity, equity and inclusion activities. He is also tasked to build and improve community relationships with the organization. Mr. Tittle was hired in the fall of 2020 and has over 15 years of education, human resources, diversity, equity & inclusion, culture and change management program experience with government, nonprofit and private organizations. He has held senior executive diversity and inclusion roles with Christiana Care Health Systems(DE), Hennepin County (MN), The NFL’s MN Super Bowl Host Committee, MN Sports Facilities Authority/Vikings and the MN Department of Transportation. Alex earned his Bachelor degree in health from The Citadel and a dual master’s degree from Webster University in Human Resources & Management. In addition to holding a certificate in Diversity, Equity & Inclusion from Cornell University, Alex currently is a member of the board of directors for the Page Education Foundation. He was previously on the board of directors for the Minnesota Humanities Center, Turning Point and the African American Leadership Forum (AALF).
Longenhagen
Allison joined B. Braun Medical Inc. in 2010 and has held roles of increasing responsibility within the organization over the past 10 years. She began her career as a Sales Service Representative for the OEM/International Division and moved to a marketing role for the department in 2013. In December 2018, she was promoted to Manager, Corporate and Internal Communications. Alli is uniquely qualified for her role, backed by a deep knowledge of our products and manufacturing capabilities honed during her time with the OEM/International department. In her nearly two years managing corporate communications, she has handled messaging and strategy for high profile corporate issues to keep both internal and external stakeholders, including customers and government officials informed. Alli also played a key role in the launch of Solutions for Life, a first-of-its kind branding campaign for the company aimed at strengthening the perception of the company in the marketplace. In the community, Alli has served on the Board of Directors of the Junior League of Lehigh Valley for the last six years and was recently elected President, as well as sitting on committees for the Mercy School for Special Learning and Big Brothers, Big Sisters. Alli graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in History from Kutztown University in 2009.
Valenciano
Angeles Valenciano serves as chief executive officer of the National Diversity Council (NDC), becoming the first female CEO of this major nonprofit. In this role, she will continue to advance the NDC’s mission of fostering diversity and inclusion in the workplace. She will also focus on strengthening partnerships with businesses, academia and the community at large. Ms. Valenciano is a seasoned strategist with more than 20 years of experience in human resources, primarily focused on diversity, organizational change, and development. She was previously president of the Healthcare Diversity Council and executive vice president of the NDC. In the latter role, she oversaw the growth of several national markets, including California, Colorado and Arizona. In addition, she also served as vice president of business development for the Texas Diversity Council (TXDC), one of the NDC state councils. Ms. Valenciano was the TXDC’s first executive director with responsibility over operations and policy implementation as adopted by the Board of Directors. She directed the agendas of the regional diversity council’s advisory boards in Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston. Under her leadership, the annual Women in Leadership Symposium was created and is now a national and global event held in more than twelve states and several countries including England, Mexico, Canada and most recently United Arab Emirates. Formerly, Ms. Valenciano was the director of diversity and inclusion for 84 Lumber Company. She provided leadership and direction for the infrastructure, design, formulation, implementation and execution of the organization’s overall diversity strategy, which included external communications, public relations, and community engagement. She was also responsible for ensuring the efficacy of these business practices, processes, and procedures. Ms. Valenciano’s role was carried out in the company’s business expansion into Mexico and Canada. As an assistant vice president and officer at JPMorgan, she served in the capacity of leadership development consultant in Credit Card Services and Organizational Development, and consultant to Customer Services’ clients. Ms. Valenciano also managed the strategic direction and execution of organizational-wide development processes as well as diversity programs and initiatives. She served as subject matter expert on global diversity, overseeing the company’s initiatives in various countries. Active in charitable and civic affairs, Ms. Valenciano is a graduate of the Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de San Luis Potosí located in the City of San Luis Potosí in Mexico with a degree in business and computer information systems. She holds a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Certificate from University of Villanova. She has completed various leadership and professional development programs across the country and abroad. Ms. Valenciano is fluent in English and Spanish. She serves on the board of the Science, Engineering and Technology at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX. She is a strong advocate and chairs several committees for people with disabilities in the workplace. She is a proud ally to the LGBT community and is active with several chambers of commerce across the country. Ms. Valenciano lives in San Antonio, TX, with her sons.
Ridgeway-Washington
Ashley Ridgeway-Washington currently serves as a Human Resources executive overseeing global People and Culture operations in the technology and telecommunications sector. In addition to her full-time role, Ashley is an independent human capital consultant, executive coach, trainer, and keynote for various industries. Ashley earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Business and Juris Doctor from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University in 2003 and 2009. She also earned a Master of Human Resources Strategy from Rollins College in 2014. Although she no longer practices, she has been an active member of the Florida bar since 2010. Ashley serves the community through membership in the North Dallas Suburban Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated; Allies in Service, and the American Health Association North Texas Health Alliance. She also serves on the Coppell, TX YMCA Board of Management and Healthcare Diversity Council Board of Directors. Ashley continues to build her brand as a Human Resources strategist, engagement influencer, and thought leader in the Human Resources space but gets her greatest sense of accomplishment from being a “mom” to Aniyah (age 18) and Ace (age 9).
Hurd
With more than 25 years of progressive experience in inclusion and diversity, community relations, corporate social responsibility, and health equity, Bridget Hurd has worked in the health care industry helping to facilitate stronger linkages among the community and health care institutions, addressing health inequities and fostering a culture of inclusion in the health care community and among employees. Ms. Hurd is the Chief Diversity Officer and vice president, Inclusion and Diversity, at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan where she is responsible for leading and executing the corporate inclusion and diversity strategy and shaping a BCBSM culture of inclusion that emphasizes the recognition, understanding, and acceptance of the differences and similarities in people and that is culturally competent in providing services to its members and customers. She also leads the Office of Health and Health Disparities which focuses on achieving health equity in the delivery of and access to care. Ms. Hurd facilitates the Diversity Leadership Council and oversees diversity and cultural competency learning opportunities for employees, 10 employee resource networks and cultivating strong stakeholder relationships and partnerships in diverse and ethnic communities. She currently represents Blue Cross on the Michigan Coronavirus Task Force on Racial Disparities, appointed by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in April 2020. She is a recipient of the national DentaQuest 2020 Health Equity Heroes award which recognizes individuals working to achieve equity during this time of coronavirus. Prior to that, Ms. Hurd was the director of Community Responsibility at BCBSM. In this role, she developed and led strategic community partnerships to encourage healthy, active lifestyles at every age and advanced the Blues brand in local communities. She oversaw corporate giving, stakeholder relationships, the employee and executive volunteer programs, and corporate internal and special events. Before joining BCBSM, Ms. Hurd worked for eight years at the Greater Detroit Area Health Council (a non-profit, regional coalition). As part of the organization’s executive team, she played a significant role in branding and building its regional and national image, organizational capacity building and directing strategic planning and sharpening its focus on health policy initiatives. She managed strategic partnerships and led internal and external communications, including media relations achieving recurring visibility in print and other media. Ms. Hurd was also responsible for member recruitment and retention, governance and board relations, stakeholder communications, sponsorships, and planning educational and fundraising events. Through these efforts she strengthened the organization’s focus, visibility, and influence, both nationally and regionally. Ms. Hurd has also worked at the Detroit Medical Center where she was press secretary and has conducted community relations for St. John Providence Health System helping to increase access to health services through community engagement. She has provided communications leadership and community outreach for other health care entities including the Voices of Detroit Initiative, the Detroit Wayne County Health Authority and the Michigan Cover the Uninsured Network. A community steward serving on numerous advisory committees and boards in the Metropolitan Detroit community, Ms. Hurd is a board member of LAHC – Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities, the Michigan Diversity Council and an advisory board member of the Council of Asian Pacific Americans. She is also a member of the President’s National Advisory Council for Henry Ford College and the President’s Community Advisory Group for Wayne State University. Ms. Hurd is a former board member of One Detroit Credit Union that focuses on providing access to financial resources to underserved communities, Special Olympics of Michigan, the Detroit Academy of Arts and Sciences, and the Southfield Community Foundation. She is a graduate of Wayne State University where she obtained a Master of Business Administration degree and the University of Michigan where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree in communications. She is a Certified Diversity Professional, a certified administrator of the Intercultural Development Inventory and has a certificate for Corporate Citizenship Leadership from the Boston College Carroll School of Management Center for Corporate Citizenship and is a graduate of Leadership Detroit XXXI. Hurd also participated in the Disparities Leadership Program of the Disparities Solution Center at Boston Massachusetts General Hospital.
Jones-Burton, MD, MS
Charlotte Jones-Burton, MD, MS, an entrepreneurial pharmaceutical executive, has brought innovation and passion to her diverse roles within the healthcare industry over the last 20+ years as clinical development leader, internal medicine and nephrology physician, academician, and change agent. In a top biopharmaceutical company, Jones-Burton leads cross-functional teams to design, implement, and oversee clinical trial studies for innovative medicines. She has also achieved a high level of success as an entrepreneur in direct sales and franchise industries. Jones-Burton excels in building and empowering diverse teams that deliver business results and has received numerous awards, including the 2020 MM+M Platinum award for Outstanding Contribution to Healthcare.
Epstein
A frequent contributor to publications like Forbes.com, HR Magazine, and peer-reviewed journals, David serves as the U.S. subject matter expert on strategic human resources issues, ranging from diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and talent management to international benefits and wellness initiatives. David is currently the Director of Human Resources & Talent Strategy for Mobilization for Justice based in NY City https://mobilizationforjustice.org, where he serves on the senior management team. “Mobilization for Justice’s mission is to achieve social justice, prioritizing the needs of people who are low-income, disenfranchised or have disabilities. We do this by providing the highest quality direct civil legal assistance, conducting community education, and building partnerships, engaging in policy advocacy, and bringing impact litigation.” For over a decade, David served as a member of the Doctors Without Borders/MSF-USA management team, he is also a frequent lecturer and panelist on DEI, human resources, insurance/risk management, and international employment—including at Cornell University’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations and the American Bar Association International Employment Law Conference in Dublin. David recently was awarded the George Washington Honor Medal from the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge (2019) for his speech at the Women in Leadership Symposium. He is a member of the SHRM Global Expertise Panel, a Board Member of the Tri-State Diversity Council, and the Academy of Advanced Practitioners of the Association for Conflict Resolution. Prior to joining MSF-USA, David was Director of Human Resources at the New York Foundling Hospital Center for Pediatric, Medical and Rehabilitative Care (Elizabeth Seton Pediatric Center) where he received the NYAHSA (now LeadingAge New York) Professional of the Year Award for his contributions to pediatric long-term care. A graduate of Cornell’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations, he is also a member of the Board of Advisors and Faculty of National Paralegal College and is a Kellogg (Northwestern University) Executive Scholar. He has taught courses for eCornell, the SHRM preparation course and long-term care administration for New England College. David has more than 20 years of human resources experience and holds master’s and post-master’s degrees in management and international employment law. He is a Certified Diversity Professional, Senior Certified HR Professional, Career Management Fellow, coach, and a Certified Wellness Practitioner. He received the Tri-State Diversity Council’s “Most Engaged Leader” and “Company of the Year Award” in 2018. David serves on the National Staff of the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary in the Diversity Directorate and received the prestigious U.S. Coast Guard Meritorious Unit Citation—the service’s highest non-combat peacetime award, as well as the Meritorious Team Commendation. He is also a U.S. Coast Guard Academy Admissions Partner. David serves on the “Design Thinking Program” at Pace University’s Lubin School of Business and volunteers for the Life Raft Group, a cancer research organization. He is also a graduate of the Harvard Humanitarian Institute for Urban Emergencies and the Harvard Program on Negotiation. In 2019, David was selected as one of the “Top 3 Healthcare Leaders” which was presented at MD Andersen Cancer Center (Healthcare Diversity Council Conference). He also received the “Healthcare Diversity Advocate” honor from the Tri-State Diversity Council that same year, as well as Get5’s “Compassion in Employee Relations” award. In 2020, he was awarded the “Authentic Leadership Award” and “Most Engaged Leader” by the Tri-State Diversity Council. He also presented a workshop on leadership, strategy, and culture at the 2020 National Diversity Council’s Annual Conference, which will be included in the National Diversity Council’s best practice online toolkit. In 2021, he was awarded the National Disability Inclusion Award and presented on wellness and well-being for Cornell University. In addition, David serves as a Board Member of the Coalition for Racial Justice & Equity which develops strategies to address systemic racism in education and the justice system.
Modell, MD
Jack Modell, M.D., is a board-certified psychiatrist who spent nearly 20 years in academic medicine at the Universities of Vermont, Michigan, and Alabama at Birmingham, providing patient care, teaching, conducting clinical research, and ultimately attaining the rank of tenured professor. After leaving academia in 2001, Dr. Modell joined GlaxoSmithKline, where he became a vice president in neurosciences R&D, and during which time he served as an executive sponsor of GSK’s LGBT employee resource group. Dr. Modell is currently the Chief Medical Officer at Rho, a contract research organization in Durham, NC, where he provides medical and scientific expertise across multiple therapeutic areas to ensure the integrity of clinical trials and the safety and welfare of subjects in these trials. Dr. Modell has authored over 50 peer-reviewed scientific publications, is well known for his medical research, and has received numerous honors and awards for his work with patients, mental health advocacy, and support of diversity and inclusion.
Taylor, PhD
James E. Taylor is both chief diversity and inclusion officer and chief talent management officer at UPMC, one of the nation’s largest and most successful integrated health care delivery and finance systems. In his capacity as chief diversity and inclusion officer, Dr. Taylor is responsible for the development and implementation of leading-edge diversity initiatives that differentiate UPMC. To this end, he executes next-generation inclusion strategies that advance the diversity management capability of UPMC, and its national presence as a health care provider and insurer. As chief talent management officer, Dr. Taylor provides oversight to the design and execution of an integrated roadmap that provides UPMC with highly effective and technologically advanced employee learning and innovation, organizational development, succession planning, and consultative services aligned to the institution’s long-term priorities. Prior to joining UPMC, Dr. Taylor served as chief learning and diversity officer at Carolinas HealthCare System. In this role, he was charged with driving the transformational culture of the organization through the development of products and services that improved its competitive position in the marketplace. Dr. Taylor has also served as executive director, diversity strategy execution and workplace inclusion at Kaiser Permanente, one of the nation's largest not-for-profit health plans. Dr. Taylor earned both a doctorate and master’s degree in organizational psychology from the California School of Professional Psychology at Alliant International University, and completed his undergraduate studies at Ithaca College in New York, where he now serves on the board of trustees. He received an executive leadership certificate from the Harvard Business School. Dr. Taylor has been awarded for his work both within and outside the health care industry, as he is actively engaged in many philanthropic and community-based endeavors, holding multiple board appointments and supporting numerous charitable activities.
Harrington-Davis
Driven, ambitious, creative, intelligent, analytical…those are a few words that describe Jan Harrington-Davis. A Detroit native, Harrington-Davis is a great example of what can be accomplished when hard work and determination are combined. Since joining Henry Ford Health System in 2007, Harrington-Davis has climbed the ranks within the organization. In her current position as Vice President- Talent Acquisition- EEO Diversity & Workforce Solutions, she oversees talent management and workforce diversity initiatives for the System. Under her leadership, Henry Ford Health System has deployed a workforce development strategy to align diversity initiatives across the health system while removing barriers to employment and promotional opportunities. Ms. Harrington-Davis represents Henry Ford Health System as an Anchor Institution member for workforce development under the Democracy Collaborative Coalition, works diligently with the city of Detroit representing their Workforce Development committee- Special Populations of the Board, President-elect for Michigan Healthcare Human Resources Association and Chair of the Diversity Council for the National Center for Healthcare Leadership (NCHL). Ms. Harrington-Davis is a recognized speaker on various diversity and inclusion topics including: Unconscious Bias, Privilege, Institutional Racism and Sexual Harassment. Harrington-Davis earned a MBA from University of Detroit – Mercy and holds a certification in Labor Relations (CLRP) and is currently pursuing a certification as a Board Certified Coach.
Mosley-Williams
Juliana Mosley-Williams has served the field of education since 1997, with the last 20 years being dedicated to higher education. Juliana currently serves as the inaugural Special Assistant to the President for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Salus University in Elkins Park, PA and previously served as the founding Chief Diversity, Inclusion & Community Relations Officer at Chestnut Hill College. She began her career as a business high school teacher in the Houston Independent School District, resulting in her personal adage of being “business-mined with an educator’s heart.” Realizing that she needed to fulfill her 6th grade goal, written in the inside cover of her dictionary, of obtaining a Ph.D. by the age of 28, Juliana enrolled in her doctoral program at 24 years old. Just 23 short months later, she was graduating with her Ph.D. at the young age of 26, making her one of the youngest doctoral graduates in Miami University’s history and the first Educational Leadership student to complete the degree in less than two years. After serving as the Executive Assistant to the President at Kentucky State University, Juliana became the Director of Multicultural Affairs at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio (her hometown). Shortly thereafter, Juliana had the opportunity to fulfill another professional goal when she became the Vice President for Student Affairs at Philander Smith College in Little Rock, Arkansas at the tender age of 30 years old, making her one of the youngest vice presidents in the country at that time. After five years of service, Juliana continued in this role for several years at Marygrove College (Detroit, MI), Edward Waters College (Jacksonville, FL) and Lincoln University (PA). Juliana also serves as a consultant and trainer, having presented more than 80 times, to include a TEDx Talk, regional and national conferences, universities, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and corporations. In these instances, she provided training and development workshops in diversity and inclusion, leadership transition, strategic planning, and student development. Affectionately called Dr. J. by her beloved students, Juliana’s commitment and service to education and the community is evident in her honors as a Philadelphia Tribune 2019 Woman of Achievement honoree; recipient of the Student Leadership and Success Award for Administrators (2015); Ohio Magazine’s Excellence in Education Awards for 2003 and an inductee to the Kaleidoscope Magazine 2004 Forty/Forty Club, which annually recognizes 40 people under the age of forty who make significant contributions in the Cleveland area. Juliana is also extremely committed to serving her local communities, currently serving as a board member of Philadelphia Education Fund; and former roles as grant reviewer for Chester County Fund for Women and Girls Grants Allocation Committee (West Chester, PA); board member for Girl Scouts of America (Gateway Council---Northern Counties of Florida); Steering Committee Chair for Save Our Sons (non-profit in Jacksonville FL); and 25+ year member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Juliana received a B.S. degree in Business Education from Ball State University (IN), a M.A. in Curriculum and Teacher Leadership with concentrated studies in Urban Education, a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, both from Miami University (OH), and Certified Diversity Professional from the National Diversity Council. Juliana seeks to educate and train people to engage in difficult dialog through cultural humility to make the unconscious conscious.
Davis-Pritchett, M.Ed.
Karen Davis-Pritchett is the Vice President of Access and Inclusion for Empath Health. She provides leadership to the Provider and Community Relations Department, Volunteer Services, Veteran Services and leads her organization’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts. Her responsibilities include creating and implementing strategic plans for outreach to healthcare partners and diverse communities, creating viable community partnerships, collaboration in creating Veteran centric services, facilitating staff training regarding diversity, equity and inclusion in the healthcare setting, and supporting volunteer engagement and recruitment. She is a graduate of Florida State University and earned a M.Ed. in Community Counseling from Howard University. Additionally, she is a Certified Diversity Professional, Certified English Educator, Alzheimer’s Association Caregiver Support Group Facilitator, and Certified Laughter Yoga Leader. Her commitment to access and inclusion has been demonstrated in numerous ways, including creating the Empath Health Traditions/Tradiciones Outreach Program, facilitating Suncoast Hospice Healing Hearts Grief Camps, conducting Advance Care Planning sessions, hosting community grief conversations and supporting other mission aligned groups with DEI strategic planning. Karen is a member of the National Association of Home Care and Hospice Diversity and Inclusion Taskforce, a Board Member of the Black Health Equity Alliance, Recipient of the Patriotic Employer Award- United States Office Secretary of Defense, The Program Innovation Award by Florida Hospice and Palliative Care Association, graduate of Leadership St. Pete, St. Petersburg Chamber.
Solis, Ph.D.
Linda Grace Solis, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Applied Humanities at the University of the Incarnate Word School of Osteopathic Medicine (UIWSOM) in San Antonio, Texas. She is dedicated to education, particularly in the medical education setting, where she encourages learners to become holistic, open-minded, and culturally and socially aware physicians. Dr. Solis is also passionate about opening doors for individuals who are from communities which have been historically excluded from medicine, and about increasing diversity in all aspects of medical education. Dr. Solis is also a diversity, equity, and inclusion consultant, working with organizations desiring to increase their constitutional diversity and create a more inclusive and equitable workplace. Dr. Solis holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology, a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration, and earned her Ph.D. in Leadership Studies at Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio. She is honored to serve in volunteer leadership roles for several national and local organizations, including the Council on Diversity and Equity at the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine and the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio Commission. She also serves on the leadership council of Travis Park Church and on the Board of Directors for the National Healthcare Diversity Council. Dr. Solis is married to Mr. Felix Solis, III. She is an avid reader of both fiction and non-fiction and believes that all books are improved with the addition of cats, coffee, and chocolate.
Pickron-Davis, PhD
Dr. Marcine Pickron-Davis joined the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine (PCOM) in 2017 and serves as the Chief Diversity and Community Relations Officer. She is charged with providing the vision, leadership, and execution of diversity, inclusion, and community partnerships across the Philadelphia, Georgia, and South Georgia campuses. At PCOM, Dr. Pickron-Davis has focused her work on advancing the institution’s goals for embracing diversity and inclusion into the culture of the college. This work includes leading the college’s stakeholders in the creation of the 2025 institutional Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion strategic plan, spearheading initiatives that introduce faculty, staff, and students to LGBT-inclusive healthcare, cultivating a network of strategic partners and collaborators around health equity and community outreach, and providing leadership to the American Association of Colleges of Osteopathic Medicine constituent groups in their efforts to promote/broaden/improve osteopathic medical education and the profession. Prior to her arrival at PCOM, Dr. Pickron-Davis served as the inaugural Chief Community Engagement and Diversity Officer at Widener University from 2003-16. In this position, she served as a strategic leader to advance the university’s commitment to access, equity, diversity, and inclusion. During her tenure, she raised Widener’s civic engagement profile among the national higher education community, implemented civic engagement initiatives resulting in sustainable partnerships between the university and the Chester community; and led the development of innovative programs and initiatives to promote a culture of inclusion. Dr. Pickron-Davis’ accomplishments resulted in institutional and cultural change in policies and practices at Widener University. In March 2020, Dr. Pickron-Davis was recognized by Diverse Issues in Higher Education as one of the “Top 35 Women in Higher Education.” She completed her bachelor’s degree from The Pennsylvania State University and her master’s of social work degree from Temple University’s School of Social Administration. She earned her doctor of philosophy degree in educational leadership at the University of Pennsylvania.
Jackson, PhD
Dr. Marlette Jackson (she/her) is a researcher, educator, and cross-functional leader with over 8 years’ experience building and scaling DEI initiatives. Currently, Marlette serves as the Director of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (J.E.D.I) at Virgin Pulse, where she leads the company’s global J.E.D.I efforts. In this role, she oversees all J.E.D.I programming, education and skill-building, conflict mediation, employee resource group engagement, and culture change management. Marlette holds a PhD in Political Science from Stanford University and has published work on equity, diversity, and social justice in the Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and the Journal of Political Behavior. In her free time, Marlette serves as a board member for the Stanford First-Generation and/or Low Income Alumni Network and as a board member for the BORNE Alliance, a non-profit providing neurological care to underserved communities in Ethiopia.
Nimoh
Mavis Nimoh is an award-winning executive-level management and leadership professional in the non-profit, education, business, and government sectors. In 2008, she was appointed director of Dauphin County Department of Drug and Alcohol Services, a Single County Authority in Pennsylvania’s capital region, leading a recovery-oriented system of care for uninsured and under-insured individuals with substance abuse disorders, as well as designing community and data-driven evidence-based prevention strategies. Mavis was also appointed to the board of directors for Capital Area Behavioral Health Collaborative, a not-for-profit company administering and executing Pennsylvania’s HealthChoices behavioral healthcare contracts for five member counties and the contract with the counties’ managed care partner, PerformCare. She was also among a handful of statewide trainers for Pennsylvania’s substance use disorder diagnostic tool, the Pennsylvania Client Placement Criteria 3rd edition. She was later appointed Secretary of the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons and was the first Black woman in Pennsylvania history to hold the position. In this role, Mavis managed Pennsylvania’s clemency process including pardons, commutations, and reprieves as well as oversaw and administered public hearings Presently, Mavis is the Executive Director at the Center for Health and Justice Transformation, formerly the Center for Prisoner Health and Human Rights, which is a partnership with The Miriam Hospital and affiliated with Brown University. The center works on advancing health equity for justice involved populations. Her center also co-hosts the National Institutes of Health-funded Center for Biomedical Research Excellence on Opioids and Overdose. She is co-chair of Lifespan Corporation’s Anti-Racism and Health Equity Collaborative. Lifespan is Rhode Island’s largest health system and employer and is also a board member of the Providence and Boston Center for AIDS Research-Community Engaged Research Council. Mavis is a White-Riley-Peterson Public Policy Fellow at Furman University and holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Rhode Island and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Penn State University.
Jackson, MBA
Melissa Jackson is currently the patient safety officer and Director of Quality and Performance Excellence for Henry Ford Macomb Hospitals and the Director of Emergency Management for Henry Ford Health System. Melissa has 25 years of experience in patient safety, environmental safety, and emergency/disaster management for prehospital, acute care, mental health, outpatient and ambulatory care settings. She is a current doctoral student at Central Michigan University, holds a Master’s degree in Emergency and Disaster Management from American Military University, and recently completed a post-graduate certificate program through Harvard Medical School in healthcare safety, quality, leadership, and informatics. Prior to her hospital career, she was a licensed paramedic instructor/coordinator and clinical manager for a large ambulance company in southeast Michigan. Outside of the healthcare community Melissa has worked as a deputized marine safety officer for the Macomb County Sheriff’s department performing law enforcement for a Department of Homeland Security mission. She is married to a Colonel in the U.S. Army who is also an emergency medicine physician. They have 4 children and 2 beautiful silver lab pups, Nali and Jonas and an adorable hospice beagle named Julie that they adopted in February of this year.
Maseru
Noble A-W Maseru served for more than a decade as health commissioner for the City of Cincinnati Health Department where he oversaw more than 400 employees in seven divisions; seven preventive and primary health care centers; twenty-two school-based health centers; environmental, surveillance, chronic disease prevention and public health preparedness programs; creating healthy communities initiatives; and an annual budget of $49 million dollars. Maseru devoted his energies to achieving a healthier Cincinnati through establishing strategic partnerships with numerous public, private and grassroots agencies with the overall goal of elevating the department's health equity impact on Cincinnati---particularly vulnerable and underserved populations. Previously, he served as director and health officer for the City of Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion; vice president with the Greater Detroit Area Health Council; Southeast Michigan's leading coalition of business, labor, health care providers, consumers, and government; a consultant with USAID Africa Division; the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation; and the faculty at Clark Atlanta University School of Social Work. His work with the Public Health Sciences Institute at Morehouse College to promote academic and research collaboration between Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) led to the establishment of the Academy of African American Public Health Programs. Maseru was also the founding director of the Morehouse School of Medicine's Master of Public Health Program. Maseru's primary research interests are public health policy issues associated with the socioeconomic development of municipalities as it relates to social determinants of health-the Health in All Policies perspective and the public sector's role in achieving health equity for its citizenry. He holds a bachelor of science degree from Wayne State University in Detroit, a master's degree in public health from the Emory University School of Medicine, and a doctorate in health policy from Clark Atlanta University.
Hartwell
Pat is an accomplished Human Resources professional with a broad base of experience as a solution-driven leader and guiding professional teams and individuals through expertise in mentoring, coaching, and conflict resolution. She currently holds the position of Senior Director, Corporate Human Resources at B. Braun Medical Inc., with responsibility for leading the Center of Excellence (COE) for Employee Relations for B. Braun Medical across the US and Canada. Pat joined B. Braun in 2005 and has provided leadership to human capital management and talent acquisition functions companywide, as well as directly managed HR functions for up to 1,500 employees. She also represents the region on B. Braun’s Global Center of Competence (COC) for Diversity. Pat collaborates with business units and senior management to align resources to achieve corporate objectives and goals, while championing DEI, a key part of the company’s business strategy. Pat builds partnerships with business, education and government through active community affiliations including the Pennsylvania Diversity Council, the Advisory Council for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion through Lehigh Valley Community Consortium and the Institute for Workplace Equality. Prior to joining B. Braun, Pat worked for Intel Corporation and Philadelphia Life Insurance Company. She also founded The Hartwell Group, a consultancy focused on providing human resources solutions to start-up, turnaround, and high-growth operations. She holds a BA in Sociology from Temple University and an MBA in Human Resources Management from the Fox School of Business at Temple University.
Kapphahn
With more than 18 years dedicated to healthcare recruitment, Rebecca assists clients regularly in assessing their organization’s immediate and future needs. Working directly with clients throughout each engagement, Rebecca provides not only a personalized search process but also strategic counsel, creating actionable plans to best position the organization and the role in the marketplace. Rebecca manages proactive and multi-faceted candidate acquisition processes to reach passive career-seeking leadership talent, employing innovative sourcing strategies and leveraging her expansive network of healthcare executive leaders across the industry. Utilizing a client-centered approach, Rebecca consistently delivers slates of highly qualified candidates who align with her clients’ culture, goals, and business objectives. Her strong critical thinking, communication, and process management skills contribute to successful, long-term client relationships. Prior to joining Cejka Search in 2006, Rebecca had already built a strong track record in healthcare recruitment operations. She has been consistently recognized for her successful sourcing and candidate acquisition techniques as well as her strong leadership of high-performing recruitment teams. Rebecca earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Texas Christian University in Fort Worth.
Teamer
Ollerman
My name is Scott Ollerman, I was born and raised in the suburbs of Detroit. I was never a great student, falling behind due to medical issues in my early elementary years. I have always wanted to be a nurse but took a different journey to get to my nursing profession. I was enlisted in the United States Army as a Licensed Vocational Nurse and was accepted at Bowie State University for their RN to BSN program. I was Commissioned in the Army and spent just over 2 years as an officer. During my time in the Army I was able to experience aspects of nursing from emergency, ICU to Labor and Delivery. Being a nurse also gave me the ability to work in the civilian sector and as an Emergency Trauma nurse. After my Army career I came to San Antonio Texas and practiced as a Pediatric Critical Care Transport Nurse and Pediatric Emergency room nurse, Medical Program Director for a non-profit caring for unaccompanied minors in the care of the United States government and as the Chief Nurse Executive for a state hospital. I am currently the Associate Program Director for Galen College of Nursing Associate Degree Program and the Director of Nursing for Ohana Pediatric Home Health. I look forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with you all.
Speedlin Gonzalez, Ph.D.
Dr. Stacy Speedlin is a Licensed Professional Counselor- Supervisor (LPC-S) and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) in the state of Texas. Her professional identity surrounds her deep values of giving others a seat at the table and advocating for the underserved. She exemplifies the core value of equity, diversity, and inclusive practices through her teaching, research, and scholarly activities. As a queer feminist scholar, she believes in using her voice to challenge and deconstruct systemic barriers existing within the heteronormative and cisgender society. Dr. Speedlin proudly served as the conference chair for the Association of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, and Transgender Issues in Counseling (ALGBTIC) annual conference. Presently, she is the Professional Trustee of Membership for the Society of Affectional, Intersexual, and Gender Expansion (SAIGE – Formerly ALGBTIC) Association. She also serves on the Advisory Council for the National Board of Credentialing Counselors (NBCC) Minority Fellowship Program for Addiction Counselors. Additionally, she is a member of the Texas Council of Family Violence (TCFV) Public Policy Committee. Her research interests include: transgender issues in counseling, substance use disorders, mental health disparities, and queer feminist issues. Dr. Speedlin is an Assistant Professor in Practice at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and a counselor at Creekview Counseling. She is a nationally recognized speaker; having given multiple talks and workshops on the topics of mentorship, LGBTQ+ Ally-Development, Cultural Responsiveness, and Addressing Counseling and Educational Needs for the Transgender, Gender Fluid, and Non-Binary Community. Additionally, she has published several peer-reviewed manuscripts on LGBTQ+ issues, mentorship, and grief.
Baida
Susan Baida is Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with UPMC, a $24 billion healthcare system of 92,000+ employees and 40+ hospitals. A healthcare professional with 30+ years of experience in DEI, global marketing, entrepreneurship, and creating social impact. As a leader of a 12-person team, she collaborates with the Chief Diversity, Inclusion and Talent Management Officer in overarching strategic planning, initiative development and implementation of strategies to advance the Diversity & Inclusion Agenda. Prior to joining UPMC, Susan co-founded a healthcare technology venture, eCareDiary, focused on patient care coordination and resources for family caregivers of aging adults. She held executive roles with Fortune 500 companies including Avon, Estee Lauder Companies and Starwood Hotels leading global expansion and launching culturally relevant products and services. An adaptable, results-driven leader providing vision, strategy, and operational execution, she possesses a successful track record of developing, implementing health equity strategies, utilizing data-driven performance measures that meet organizational objectives. Susan graduated from Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia, holds certifications in Diversity Leadership and Strategic Human Resources Business Partnership, and completed executive leadership training at Vassar College. She serves on the Board of Directors of the National Healthcare Diversity Council, Casa San Jose, Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh Women’s Alliance and Pine Richland Anti-Racism Coalition. For 8 years, she was an appointed Director of Manhattan Community Board, an advisory board to the New York City Mayor’s office, and served as its Chair of Human Services advocating on behalf of underserved constituents. Susan is first generation to Ecuadorian and Korean immigrant parents and is fluent in Spanish. Her family includes 11-year-old twin sons, a 14-year-old daughter, her mother, and their beloved beagle.
Williams
Tammy Williams is the Founder & CEO of Envision2bWell Inc dba EnvisionWell. Known as the Chief Democratizer for Social Health Empowerment®, she founded the innovative mission driven digital health and wellness company to address the lack of health equity after an illustrious career leading human resources, corporate communications, business strategy and change management at multiple Fortune companies inclusive of Lockheed Martin, Booz Allen Hamilton, Motorola and mid-size companies. The company’s focus is to democratize 360° Wellness by bringing knowledge, support, access and autonomy (KSAA) to all with a powerful unified, integrated and scalable platform that is mobile first but not mobile only, for companies, payers, healthcare partners, community-based organizations and individual consumers. Named one of the 25 Influential Black Women in Business by the Network Journal, is just one of the many honors the accomplished speaker has received, including a Pennsylvania Senate Proclamation presented by then-Senator Andrew Dinniman in recognition of selfless service. She has appeared on Bloomberg Business and has been a featured speaker at national and international conferences. Tammy is involved in activism activites and serves on several boards. In June 2021, Williams further demonstrated her activist bona fides when she presented testimony at a Congressional hearing to advocate for reversing the decline in women entrepreneurship. Tammy is also a proud partner of VisionForward, a national coalition of organizations and individuals working to advance gender equity through women’s leadership. A Southern New Jersey native, Williams attended Rutgers University and Kellogg School of Management and holds multiple certifications. She is a self-described “mother, granny, wife, sister, auntie, friend, and businesswoman, who loves to help other women “live Life grand,” and has successfully integrated her business, her volunteerism/advocacy, and family into one life in which she tries every day to live by her mantra to “Live Life Grand.”
Lewis
Terri is Chief Human Resources Officer for One Call’s more than 2,000 employees throughout the United States. She is responsible for creating the company’s overarching vision for culture and engagement, diversity and inclusion, communications, and top talent acquisition and development as well as all aspects of HR service delivery. Terri has more than 25 years of experience in human resources. Prior to One Call, she served as senior vice president of global human resources for Pontoon Solutions where she is credited with creating a people-centric organization and positioning the company as a leading ‘Great Place to Work.’ In addition to Pontoon, she has worked in organizations such as PSS World Medical, General Electric, International Paper and Brambles Ltd. She is a recognized global human resources leader who provides strategic HR leadership to build organizations that are client-centric, attract and develop the best talent and drive to create a great place to work for all colleagues. Terri believes every HR professional must have deep business and organizational knowledge in order to develop and implement a people strategy that will deliver. She has broad HR experience from global transformation to start-ups. Terri has been recognized by her peers as a multi-year Global HR Superstar and a National Diversity Council Glass Ceiling Award winner. She is on a number of advisory boards including Kids Chance of FL, the Evanta FL CHRO governing board, and the FL Diversity Council and is an active participant in her local community through Wolfson Children’s Hospital, Leadership Jacksonville, and as a board member for Changing Homelessness. Terri received her Master of Human Resources Management from the University of South Carolina and her Bachelor of Science in Business Management/HR from Clemson University. She lives in the greater Jacksonville, FL area, with her husband Fletcher, son Carter and their puppy Winston.
Parris-Benjamin