Three years after the murder of George Floyd, there has been a decline in enthusiasm and demand for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs and initiatives. DEI champions and practitioners find themselves battling personal misconceptions and political misinformation regarding what DEI truly is. This has resulted in a decrease in momentum and buy-in throughout organizations across the country. Are you challenged with maintaining buy-in for DEI? Have you been contemplating how to keep the energy high regarding DEI? Then, this is the workshop for you!
Session Objectives
Lonnie Walker, Jr.
Lonnie Walker, Jr. (He/him/his) is a Topeka native who has a passion for leadership, serving and people. He received a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing/Finance from The Florida State University, a Master of Business Administration degree from Washburn University, and an Executive Certificate in Strategic D&I Management through the prestigious Georgetown University in Washington, D.C.
In keeping with his zeal for serving and people, he began his journey as a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) practitioner seven years ago at Federal Home Loan Bank of Topeka as its Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Program Manager. Joining Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas in March 2021, he currently serves as its Director of DEI.
When he is away from work, his focus is on spending time with his wife, Alicia; and, their two sons, Aries who’s 10, and Lonnie Walker, III, aka Trey, who’s two.