Diversity & Inclusion 2.0: Aligning Purpose, People, and Performance

We invite you to join us at our 12th Annual Diversity and Leadership Conference. We are excited to host the conference in Houston again this year. I have participated in every Texas Conference since the first one in San Antonio in 2005. Year after year I am impressed by the quality of the sessions, the speakers and the enthusiasm of the participants. I always learn something new and meet people who expand my perspective.

This conference is a great opportunity for you to learn from leaders in the business community and network with professionals from a variety of industries. Our goal is for you to leave the conference with valuable information that can help you with your career objectives and innovative ideas that will contribute to business success. And we have added several sessions that will award professional continuing education credits.

This year's theme is "Diversity and Inclusion 2.0: Aligning Purpose, People and Performance", signaling the move beyond legislative requirements or making sure everyone feels good. It's about the real value brought to the organization when everyone uses their unique perspective to contribute. We know that budgets are tight given the financial challenges many employers are facing in this economy. I believe that the current environment makes the Texas Diversity and Leadership Conference even more valuable. In a period of workforce reductions, employers are trying to figure out how to do the same or more work with fewer people and to retain talent. That makes it more important that the people doing the work feel valued and included in the life of the organization so that they can do their best work. Therefore, I commend both your individual participation in the conference and the investment of employers who made it possible for their team members to attend.

Our keynotes for this year's conference include Janiece Longoria, Port Commission Chairman, Port of Houston Authority and Anthony Graves, Founder, Anthony Graves Foundation. Commissioner Longoria will be the featured keynote for the Most Powerful & Influential Women of Texas Breakfast on Thursday, April 14th. Mr. Graves will be featured on Friday, April 15th.

The conference will end as we once again partner with the Houston Astros to celebrate Jackie Robinson Day during the Astros' game Friday evening, April 15th. Conference attendees have the opportunity to attend the game at no cost. Tickets are limited and are on a first come basis. Those interested should contact Javier Castro at javier.castro@nationaldiversitycouncil.org.

I extend a special thanks to the corporate sponsors whose support help us keep conference fees as low as possible and to the staff of the national Diversity council and volunteers who work diligently to make this conference happen.

We all have something to learn and something to teach. The 2016 Texas and Diversity Leadership Conference is the perfect place to do both!

For information on the conference and how to register, visit www.texasdiversityconference.com.

Sincerely,

Paula McHam- Honorary Conference Chair
Account Executive and Community Involvement Lead
Cigna, South Texas & Louisiana

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