Agenda

Welcome

Top of the Agenda: Headlines and Issues Impacting Sports

The sports industry has become the nexus for social and political change. Governing bodies, leagues, teams and athletes are leveraging sports to bring attention to and drive change on issues ranging from voting rights to human rights. This roundtable discussion will explore the many social issues sports organizations are currently navigating.

Moderator: Michele Meyer-Shipp, CEO, Dress for Success Worldwide; Board Member, LPGA

Has the “Moment” Become a Sustainable Movement?

Social and cultural change found unprecedented momentum in the wake of George Floyd’s killing in May 2020. This session will explore the progress that has been made and the work that is left to be done with regard to making the sports industry more diverse, inclusive and equitable.

Moderator: Diahann Billings-Burford, CEO, RISE

How to Develop an Inclusive Marketing Strategy

This session will explore how organizations are effectively and authentically adopting inclusive marketing strategies that are positively impacting their brand and bottom line. 

Moderator: Nicole Jeter West, CEO, underdog venture team

Partner Insight: Driving Social Change in Soccer: How the Future Will be More Inclusive for All

This session will explore the steps U.S. Soccer is taking to create a more diverse, equitable and inclusive landscape.

Moderator: Danielle Slaton, Soccer Analyst and Sideline Reporter

Break

Bringing Disability to the Forefront

With so much work to be done regarding the racial, ethnic and gender inequities in sports, we can’t lose sight of the fact that 15% of the population has a disability. This session will examine how organizations can create an inclusive environment for those with disabilities. 

Moderator: Ann Seeney, Chief People & Diversity Officer, U.S. Soccer Federation; Board Chair, Pro Sports Assembly

Race and Sports in America – A 25-Year Retrospective

Ken Shropshire brought the lack of diversity and inclusivity in the front offices of the sports industry to the forefront with his book In Black & White: Race and Sports in America which he released 25 years ago. Join us for a one-on-one conversation with Ken to hear his thoughts on what has changed since 1996.

Moderator: Bill Rhoden, Columnist and Editor-at-Large, Andscape

Recap/Welcome

Operationalizing DEI: Building an Organization with a Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Organizations that are truly successful with DEI do not have a program they adopt, they have an ethos they embrace. The Seattle Kraken set out to establish a new franchise that is both diverse and inclusive. This session will explore how they became one of the most diverse franchises in the NHL.

Moderator: Curtis Walker, VP, TurnkeyZRG

Tod Leiweke, CEO, Seattle Kraken

Partner Insight: Advancing DEI While Being Mindful of Legal Risks

This session will cover the importance of carefully crafted DEI strategies, including developing best practices and avoiding legal risks.

The [White Male] Elephant in the Room

In order for DEI initiatives to effectively impact workplace culture, white male leadership must actively and intentionally be involved. Many white male leaders feel like they don’t have anything to add to the discussion or are afraid they will say the wrong thing, so instead of embarking in uncomfortable conversations, they sit on the sidelines. This session will examine why and how white male leadership need to participate in the process.

Moderator: China Jude, VP, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Denver Broncos

Break

The Rising Tide: Impacting Disadvantaged Businesses through Meaningful Partnerships

Sports leagues and teams can have a profound effect on disadvantaged businesses. This session will explore how sports properties can impact the economic mobility of minority-, women- and DOBE-owned businesses in the communities they serve.

Moderator: Vada Manager, Founder & CEO, Manager Global Holdings LLC

Key Considerations for Creating and Sustaining a Truly Inclusive Workplace

While racial inequities have been the focus of attention the last two years, to create a truly inclusive workplace leaders must think much broader. This session will examine different forms of diversity and considerations needed to make all feel welcome.

Moderator: Adam Lippard, Chief Partnership Officer, GMR Marketing

Billy Bean, SVP, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; Special Assistant to Commissioner, MLB