Why Businesses that Embrace Diversity
Are Positioned to Thrive in 2021

Driven by the rapid diversification of the nation’s population and the rising demand by consumers and workers for a more just and equitable society, businesses of every size and industry are recognizing the need to adopt sound Diversity, Equity & inclusion (DEI) policies and practices. On October 23rd, the Loudoun Chamber is hosting a community dialogue with national and regional DEI experts to help Loudoun County businesses better understand the need, value and effective implementation of DEI initiatives.

This virtual Community Dialogue will feature a keynote presentation by Rick C. Wade, Senior Vice President of Strategic Alliances and Outreach at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Wade will discuss the U.S. Chamber’s Equality of Opportunity Initiative, an effort to develop data-driven business and policy solutions to create equal opportunities for African Americans and other minority communities.

Following the presentation, Loudoun Chamber Chair of the Board Stacey Metcalfe of Inova Loudoun Hospital will lead a panel discussion focused on helping business leaders better understand how to adopt effective DEI policies and efforts.

Featured Panelists:

• Alberto Garcia, Administrative Vice President; Business Banking, M&T Bank – A member of the Loudoun County Chamber’s Board, Al serves on the Diversity Council of M&T Bank and as the Diversity Liaison for the HOLA Resource Groups in Buffalo, Greater Washington and elsewhere.
• Marvin L. Jones, Managing Partner, The Diversity & Inclusion Factor, LLC – A seasoned facilitator, trainer and strategist, Jones has conducted DEI seminars and workshops for 31,000+ military and civilian personnel at 48 U.S. Navy Medicine facilities around the globe.
• Charlene Wheeless, Principal, Charlene Wheeless, LLC – Wheeless is a seasoned C-Suite leader and executive at several large, global organizations. Her skills and experiences position her to ensure anti-racist practices, inclusivity, and diversity in corporate environments.