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Dear Reader:
As 2023 draws to a close, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) remains a perennial hot-button topic that companies, no matter what business they’re in, must contend with not only to function on a day-to-day basis but to sustain future growth.

B2B PUBLISHING
Chief Strategy & Revenue Officer and Chief of Staff to Executive Chairman anna.magzanyan@latimes.com.

Modern Employees Seek More LGBT + Inclusive Employers
The recently published Deloitte Global 2023 LGBT+ Inclusion @ Work Report explores the experiences of more than 5,400 non-Deloitte LGBT+ respondents who work in various sectors across 13 countries through the lens of both sexual orientation and gender identity.

The TOP FIVE Challenges Facing DEI Leaders
To progress on DEI goals and outcomes, DEI leaders must strengthen their role’s impact.

Leading With Culture and Diversity
Across the country, Easterseals is leading the way to full equity, inclusion and access through life-changing disability and community services.

Many Employees Remain Uncomfortable Sharing All Aspects of Their Identities
Earlier this year, Ernst & Young announced the results of the third iteration of the “Belonging Barometer,” revealing the perspectives of employed adults from various industries and organizations across the globe.

Companies Benefit from Transparency About Racial Diversity Efforts
Employers are viewed more positively, even when they disclose negative data, study finds.

The Fight for a Level Playing Field Just Got Harder
Access to higher education will be key to fostering important principles of diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility.

DEI EFFORTS GROWING AMONG VC FIRMS
Diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) data from 315 venture capital (VC) firms, representing more than 5,700 U.S.-based, full-time employees and $594.5 billion in assets under management, is now available as part of the “VC Human Capital Survey,” powered by Venture Forward, the National Venture Capital Association (NVCA) and Deloitte.

Employer Support for People with Disabilities is Needed
The AbilityOne Program is among the nation’s largest sources of employment for people who are blind or have significant disabilities.

Despite Increase In DE&I Initiatives, Many Employees Are Still Left Behind
Survey shows U.S. employees with hearing loss are underrepresented in DE&I efforts.

How Flexible Working Policies Impact Diversity & Inclusion
In today’s dynamic work landscape, where being offered some kind of flexible working option is now the norm, many companies continue to grapple with the best way to implement flexible working to effectively balance their business goals with employee expectations.

Corporate Commitment to DEI: Where It Stands Today
The diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) pendulum has begun a swing downward from its high point of corporate adoption following the civil unrest in 2020, which saw consumers and employees demand organizations make public social commitments aimed at creating a more equitable workplace.

How the Economy Impacts DE&I Ef forts in Businesses
A recent Korn Ferry survey of professionals points to who has the responsibility to advance Diversity, Equity and Inclusion efforts within an organization and how the economy is impacting those efforts.

TOP RATED WORKPLACES IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA 2023
The Los Angeles Times B2B Publishing team is well aware that employees valued by leadership end up caring for each other — and their clients.

Top Rated Workplaces in Southern California
Kitty Bungalow Charm School for Wayward Cats.

Top Rated Workplaces in Southern California
Gibbs Giden Locher Turner Senet & Wittbrodt LLP.

HR Executives Focus on Racial Justice Initiatives and Impact of COVID-19 on Future of Work
HR Policy Association, representing chief human resource officers (CHROs) of more than 390 of the largest employers in the United States and globally, recently released its top findings from its annual spring survey, devoted to the major issues currently facing CHROs – racial justice and inclusion, pay equity and the impact of COVID-19 on the future of work.

DEIA Forum
DEIA Forum

Event Photos
The 2023 Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Forum was held at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills on October 19.

Shared Insights From the Forum Breaking Barriers
When discussing modern initiatives built to increase equity, it’s also very important to understand those who have done work to create this conversation.

Harnessing the Power of Diversity
With so much discussion about what diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility is, sometimes lost is its practical application in the workplace.

Accessibility and the Bottom Line
Almost 35 years after the implementation of the Americans with Disabilities Act, “accessibility” has taken on broad and varied meanings.

Belonging: The New Secret to Retention in an Evolving Remote Workplace
On belonging in a remote or hybrid work model.

Alejandra Alanis
Alejandra Alanis is a seasoned risk consulting manager at RSM US LLP with over nine years of experience in both internal and external audit roles. She kickstarted her career at Deloitte Seattle before joining RSM US LLP in November 2018.

DEIA VISIONARIES
Increasingly, corporations are recognizing the importance and need for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility (DEIA) initiatives in the workplace.

Josefina Aguayo
Josefina Aguayo, eBay, Inc.’s director of diversity, equity and inclusion, is a distinguished leader.

Clifton W. Albright
Clifton W. Albright is the president and founding partner of Albright, Yee & Schmit, APC. His leadership extends beyond law, focusing on fostering diversity and inclusion.

Rosie Arroyo
Rosie Arroyo, as a senior program officer overseeing the Immigrant Integration portfolio at the California Community Foundation (CCF), has played a pivotal role in advancing immigrant rights and early childhood education in the Greater Los Angeles area.

Kamala Avila-Salmon
Kamala Avila-Salmon, as the head of inclusive content for the Lionsgate Motion Picture Group (MPG), is at the forefront of promoting diversity, equity and inclusion within the film industry.

Sahar Andrade
Sahar Andrade is a prominent DEI consultant and the founder of Sahar Consulting, LLC. With a remarkable career spanning government agencies and nonprofit organizations, she earned recognition and accolades for her expertise.

Roberto C. Arnold
Roberto C. Arnold, a seasoned veteran with over 16 years of service in the U.S. Army, boasts an impressive list of honors, including the Bronze Star with Valor, Purple Heart and Combat Infantry Badge.

Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith
Dr. LaSharnda Beckwith, founder and CEO of Lutheran Social Services of Southern California (LSSSC), is a visionary leader dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within her organization and the communities it serves.

Julia L. Birkel
Julia L. Birkel, a partner at Hill, Farrer & Burrill LLP, brings over 35 years of litigation experience to her role. Her expertise is primarily focused on trust and estate litigation, including elder financial abuse, undue influence, will and trust disputes, and conservatorships.

Patricia Brum
Patricia Brum is a distinguished business litigation partner at Snell & Wilmer, a prominent business law firm. Proudly identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community, she is a dedicated advocate for inclusion in the legal profession.

Saundra Bryant
Saundra Bryant boasts a remarkable 40-year career dedicated to community and industry associations, cementing her legacy as the executive director of All Peoples Community Center since 1983.

Darrell Ray Brown
Darrell Ray Brown, founder and CEO of The Rewirement Project, leverages his illustrious 47-year career as a senior banking executive and DEIA advocate.

Dr. Giovanna Brasfield
Dr. Giovanna Brasfield, commonly known as “Dr. G,” is a seasoned leader with over 19 years of experience in leadership consulting and Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging (DEIB) program development.

Shannon Bradley
As the chief diversity and inclusion officer at Keck Medicine of USC, Shannon Bradley, MBA, has orchestrated a profound transformation in the institution’s approach to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Robert W. Brown, J.D.
Robert W. Brown, president of the University of West Los Angeles (UWLA), champions diversity, equity and accessibility in education. His personal journey and experiences drive his mission to counter racism and ensure equal opportunity.

Valeisha Butterfield Jones
Valeisha Butterfield Jones is a globally recognized leader at the intersection of tech, entertainment and politics. In her role as vice president of partnerships and engagement at Google, she has transformed the DEI landscape.

Patrick Buelna
Patrick Buelna, a distinguished trial attorney, has forged an exceptional career advocating for justice. His passion and tenacity have delivered numerous victories, securing multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements in civil jury trials.

Cyndie M. Chang
Cyndie Chang holds a robust record in advancing diversity and women’s initiatives in the legal field. With a wealth of leadership roles in organizations like Loyola Law School and the Committee of 100, she is a dedicated advocate for equality.

Carl Chang
Carl Chang, founder and CEO of Kairos Investment Management Company, LLC, is a trailblazing force in the commercial real estate industry championing diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) as a fundamental pillar of Kairos’ culture and operations.

Hon. Rupert A. Byrdsong
Hudge Rupert Byrdsong is a tireless advocate for DEIA within the judicial system. Prior to his appointment as a Los Angeles Superior Court judge, he was a distinguished employment discrimination litigation attorney representing both employers and employees in high-stakes cases.

Daryl J. Carter
Daryl J. Carter serves as the founder, chairman and CEO of Avanath Capital Management. With an unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), he has established Avanath as a pioneering force in the real estate industry, focusing on affordable and workforce housing across the U.

William Delgado
William Delgado, a founding partner at DTO Law, has been a dedicated advocate for diversifying the legal profession. As immediate vice chair of the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms (NAMWOLF) Board, he’s played a pivotal role in advancing diversity.

Derrick Coleman
Derrick Coleman, a seasoned leader, heads GHJ Search and Staffing, demonstrating excellence in recruiting and talent acquisition. With expertise in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), his influence extends beyond recruitment.

Dr. Anthony Culpepper
Dr. Anthony Culpepper, president of Los Angeles Southwest College, is a key advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) in higher education.

Jamila Daniel
Jamila Daniel, a dynamic leader at Lionsgate and STARZ, is at the forefront of diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) efforts in the entertainment industry. Joining STARZ as SVP of human resources, her role quickly expanded to chief diversity officer, reflecting her visionary approach.

Sarah Chavarria
Sarah Chavarria, president of Delta Dental of California and Affiliates, is a trailblazer in fostering diversity, equity and inclusion in the healthcare industry. Her career ascension from chief people officer to president signifies her commitment to excellence.

Lilit Davtyan
Lilit Davtyan, CEO of Phonexa, is a trailblazer advocating gender equality and women’s empowerment in the tech industry. A majority of Phonexa’s executive team comprises women and ethnic minorities, reflecting her commitment.

Terrence Mark Franklin
Terrence Mark Franklin, an accomplished trusts and estates litigator, has made a profound impact on diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) throughout his career. Recognized with Chambers and Partners’ “Lifetime Achievement Award,” he has tirelessly worked to advance DEIA in the legal industry.

Rodney Diggs
Rodney Diggs, a named partner at Ivie McNeill Wyatt Purcell & Diggs, is a powerhouse attorney known for his commitment to advocacy, philanthropy and civic engagement. He has represented clients in high-profile excessive force, wrongful death and employment cases, gaining national recognition.

Hayley Dickson
Hayley Dickson, a dedicated CEO and wealth management advisor, is a passionate advocate for financial inclusivity. She challenges traditional norms to empower women, LGBTQIA+ and People of Color in financial planning.

Elizabeth Gilbert Kaetzel
Elizabeth Gilbert Kaetzel is the founder of Narratur Studio, a pioneering force in diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA) within the financial sector. With a master’s in anthropology/folklore and a certificate for teaching and learning in higher education, she brings a unique perspective to her work.

Terrance J. Evans
Terrance J. Evans, a partner at Duane Morris LLP, co-leads the Banking and Financial Services Practice and chairs the San Francisco Diversity and Inclusion Committee. His distinguished career includes representing clients in federal and state court, even arguing before the United States Supreme Court.

Dr. Apollo Emeka
Dr. Apollo Emeka, founder and principal of Apollo Strategy Group Inc., is a visionary executive, leadership coach and strategic consultant. With a fervent commitment to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA), he envisions a world where everyone can realize their full potential for good.

Marcos Gonzales
Marcos Gonzales is the founder & managing partner of VamosVentures, a venture capital fund dedicated to supporting Latinx and diverse founders in tech-enabled startups.

Keith M. Gregory
Keith M. Gregory, partner at Snell & Wilmer, is a dedicated leader in fostering diversity and inclusion. As co-chair of the firm’s First-Gen Forward program, he empowers first-generation attorneys by providing resources and support for their professional growth.

Stacey Gordon
Stacey Gordon is an inclusive workplace consultant and CEO of Rework Work, a leading voice in gender equity, and an acclaimed author. Her book, “UNBIAS: Addressing Unconscious Bias at Work,” soared to the top of Amazon’s Business Ethics category.

Reena Hajat Carroll
Reena Hajat Carroll, as the executive director of the California Conference for Equality and Justice (CCEJ), boasts over two decades of nonprofit leadership in the diversity, inclusion and equity field.

Arash Homampour
A renowned trial attorney with an exceptional record of securing substantial verdicts against major corporations and public entities, Arash Homampour is the founder of The Homampour Law Firm. His innovative use of technology like animation and graphics sets him apart as a disruptor in the legal field.

Joella Margarita Hopkins
Joella Hopkins, CSEP, CMP, MBA, serves as the SVP of strategic marketing and accounts at Branding Los Angeles where her work combines business development with a commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion.

Tiaunia Nyeba Henry
Tiaunia N. Henry, a partner at Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP, stands as an accomplished litigator with a diverse practice in complex business litigation, including antitrust and transnational cases. She earned her Juris Doctor degree and a Master of Laws in comparative and international law from Duke University School of Law.

Shaun Harper
Shaun Harper, a provost professor at the University of Southern California, is one of the nation’s foremost racial equity experts. Holding the Clifford and Betty Allen Chair in Urban Leadership, he is also the founder and executive director of the USC Race and Equity Center.

Lisa Harris
Lisa Harris, a partner at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton LLP, is an exemplary leader in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). She cochairs the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Attorney Network, actively promoting the recruitment, retention and advancement of attorneys of color.

Dr. Royel Montel Johnson
Dr. Royel Montel Johnson, a tenured professor at the University of Southern California’s Rossier School of Education, is a distinguished scholar and leader in higher education.

Baraa Kahf
Baraa Kahf, a partner at Knobbe Martens, is a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility in the legal community.

Monica Marie Jaramillo
Monica Marie Jaramillo, co-founder of LABEL The Agency, leads a woman of color-led entertainment marketing agency, specializing in event marketing, red carpet events, PR, celebrity brand campaigns and celebrity deals with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Alyssa Kavner
Alyssa Kavner, MA, BCBA, serves as the vice president of clinical training and quality at Easterseals Southern California.

Lee Ann Kline
Lee Ann Kline, as the president and founder of STEM Advantage, has dedicated herself to transforming the landscape of STEM education and career opportunities.

Vivian Kim
Vivian Kim is a dynamic leader with a robust background as chief people officer and general counsel at Hanmi Bank.

Tracey Kennedy
As a partner at Sheppard, Mullin, Richter & Hampton, Tracey Kennedy is a trailblazer in labor and employment law and a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion in the legal profession.

Jason J. Kim
Jason J. Kim, counsel at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP, is a dedicated champion of diversity and inclusion within the legal profession.

Wesley King
Wesley King is the first openly gay partner at Frandzel Robins Bloom & Csato, L.C., a milestone in the firm’s 40+ year history. As the co-chair of Frandzel’s revived summer associate program, he is actively engaged in diversifying the firm’s recruitment efforts.

Adrian Ledda
Adrian Ledda is the head of inclusive game design at Activision Blizzard, pioneering inclusivity into iconic gaming franchises like Call of Duty, Diablo and Candy Crush.

Mary Kohav
Mary Kohav is a highly experienced professional with over 25 years of expertise in strategic communications, community relations, DEI and social impact.

Sergio Alfredo Lechuga
Sergio Alfredo Lechuga, as the inaugural DEI committee chair at HMC Architects, is dedicated to fostering a culture of diversity and equity, pioneering a comprehensive DEI framework that has reshaped the firm’s culture and promoted inclusivity and minority leadership.

Madison Y. Li
Madison Y. Li is a dynamic senior marketing manager at Cricket Wireless, which is part of the AT&T family. With two-plus years of dedicated service, she leads the brand’s marketing efforts in Southern California, a region with a substantial population of 23.

D. Jason Lyon
D Jason Lyon, a partner at Hahn & Hahn LLP and a Pasadena city councilmember, is a trailblazer who has dedicated his career to advancing LGBTQ+ rights and diversity.

Adrienne Luce
Adrienne Luce, a dedicated professional with a 20-year career, is the vice president of diversity, inclusion and social impact at HMC Architects. She also serves as the executive director of the HMC Designing Futures Foundation.

Wil Lewis
As the first-ever global chief diversity, equity, inclusion and talent acquisition officer for Experian, Wil Lewis plays a pivotal role in shaping the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity.

Karla Luna
Karla Luna is a distinguished tax partner at BPM with over 23 years of experience, recognized as a top CPA in the Los Angeles region. Her journey at BPM began in July 2022 when the firm merged with Gumbiner Savett, where she already stood out as a leader.

Anthony Duvall Lee
Anthony D. Lee, CRPS, is a senior vice president of investments at Wedbush Securities with over 27 years of industry experience. His mission is to help clients achieve their financial goals through customized investment strategies.

Mark Masliah
Mark Masliah is a distinguished financial advisor at Northwestern Mutual known for his dedication to the LGBTQ+ community and financial planning. A member of the LGBTQ+ community, he played a pivotal role in establishing the district-level LGBTQ+ and Ally Council at Northwestern Mutual.

Jennifer Martinez
Jennifer Martinez is a trailblazer in the legal industry serving as Hanson Bridgett’s inaugural Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO) since January 1, 2021.

Henry Manoucheri
Henry Manoucheri, founder and CEO of Universe Holdings, is a visionary leader dedicated to fostering diversity and inclusion within his organization.

Byron McLain
Byron McLain is a partner at Foley & Lardner LLP, recognized for his legal expertise and commitment to justice. He recently led the Foley team to a landmark victory in the historic Bruce’s Beach case, representing the County of Los Angeles in defense against a lawsuit aimed at preventing the property’s transfer and return to the Bruce family.

Steve O’Connell
Steve O’Connell is the dedicated president and CEO of California Credit Union, with a remarkable career spanning over two decades devoted to strengthening communities and enhancing the lives of members through financial education, social responsibility and DEIA practices.

Tony Moraga
Tony Moraga is a prominent leader as the vice president and head of workforce and workplace diversity and inclusion at PNC Bank. With responsibility extending across PNC’s nationwide presence, he oversees the development of talent and nurturing of an inclusive corporate culture.

Frank Anthony Montes
Frank Anthony Montes is a dedicated advocate and successful small business owner with over 40 years of entrepreneurial experience. As the founder of Inland Body and Paint Center in Fontana, he has demonstrated unwavering leadership marked by honesty, transparency and commitment.

Brian Moskal
Brian Moskal is a partner at Greenberg Glusker LLP and serves as the co-chair of the firm’s diversity and inclusion committee. He is a distinguished environmental attorney with a deep commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the legal profession and his organization.

Damaris L. Medina
Damaris Medina, a shareholder at Buchalter, holds a prominent position in the legal and healthcare sectors. As chief diversity officer, board member, and cochair of the Health Care & Life Sciences practice, she embodies leadership and commitment.

Christopher Pelham
Christopher Pelham, head of litigation and disputes in Los Angeles for Norton Rose Fulbright, has been immersed in the world of law from a young age, captivated by courtroom dramas from his high school days.

Nora Perez
With over three decades of banking experience, Nora Perez joined Enterprise Bank & Trust in 2022, rapidly becoming an asset to the community development team. Her mission is to enhance financial soundness in low- to moderate-income areas while forging lasting community relationships.

Diana Ordaz-Cherrington
As the vice president of the Multicultural Business Alliance (MBA), Diana Ordaz-Cherrington is a driven leader with a background in healthcare and entrepreneurship. With extensive experience in senior healthcare, she founded Alpha Prime Health Solutions, focusing on elder healthcare solutions for major companies, nonprofits and hospitals.

Rick R. Olivarez
Rick R. Olivarez, founding partner of OMLO, is a prominent legal practitioner renowned for his service to municipal, education and public agency clients.

Paulette Pantoja
Paulette Pantoja, founder and CEO of Blu Digital Group, is a visionary leader passionate about diversity and inclusion. She believes that diversity enriches culture and fosters a healthy work environment.

Meena Patel
Meena Patel, the diversity, equity and inclusion director at NextGen Healthcare, is a driving force in creating a more inclusive workplace. In her first year, she established a robust DEI culture, fully integrating DEI principles into the company’s ethos.

Adanté Pointer
Adanté Pointer is a relentless and passionate champion for justice, representing both individuals and communities against powerful entities. He has fought for justice in high-profile cases, such as the Richmond Chevron Refinery Fire and the Oscar Grant case.

Gary L. Polk
Gary L. Polk, Sr. is a seasoned Black businessman, CEO, business consultant and esteemed university professor with a strong background in banking and entrepreneurship. Holding a bachelor’s degree and leveraging his 10-year career as a banker, his expertise in finance became the cornerstone of his teaching career.

Angela Reddock-Wright
Angela Reddock-Wright, an accomplished employment mediator, arbitrator and investigator, is recognized as a distinguished leader in labor and employment law.

Paula Pompa-Craven
Dr. Paula Pompa-Craven is a highly respected licensed clinical psychologist specializing in autism and developmental disabilities assessment. With a career spanning over two decades at Easterseals Southern California (ESSC), she currently serves as vice president and chief clinical officer of ESSC’s Autism Therapy Services.

Philip I. Person
Philip Person, a shareholder at Greenberg Traurig, LLP, is a fervent advocate for junior lawyers and diversity. He is committed to working with underrepresented and first-generation attorneys and future attorneys through the lens of someone who has navigated the specific hurdles encountered by these communities.

Derek Van Powell
Derek Powell is a dynamic director and leader at Altman Solon, a prominent strategy consulting firm specializing in the Telecom, Media and Technology (TMT) industries. Within Altman Solon, he actively champions diversity and inclusion as a member of the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion Steering Committee.

Julia Romano
Julia Romano, a partner at King & Spalding, is a standout lawyer dedicated to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). Her pro bono work has secured asylum for transgender women, making a remarkable impact.

Daniel Sasse
Dan Sasse is a dynamic leader and partner at Crowell & Moring LLP, consistently dedicated to promoting diversity, equity and inclusion in the legal community.

Michele Ruiz
Michele Ruiz is the CEO and co-founder of BiasSync, a sciencebased technology company focused on addressing unconscious bias in the workplace. With a data-driven approach, her company helps organizations measure and manage unconscious bias, fostering diversity and inclusion.

Jerry Ruiz
Jerry Ruiz is a partner at Frost Brown Todd AlvaradoSmith with over 40 years of legal experience in real estate and commercial transactions. His expertise includes managing real estate needs, negotiating commercial lease agreements and overseeing property management arrangements.

Donna Ross-Jones
Donna Ross-Jones, founder and president of Transition Music Corporation (TMC), is a trailblazing advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the music industry.

David Ruiz
David R. Ruiz is a partner at Manning Kass, where he leads the appellate law (strategy, writs and appeals) team and serves as the firm’s general counsel.

Sonia Smith Kang
Sonia Smith Kang, the founder of Mixed Up Clothing, is a fashion pioneer and advocate for multicultural representation. Her mission-driven childrens-wear brand draws from her AfroLatina heritage and commitment to diversity. Recognized as a certified Women Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE), Smith Kang’s work has challenged the lack of cultural representation in the fashion industry.

Dr. Tana M. Session
Dr. Tana M. Session, CEO & founder of TanaMSession.com, a certified Women Minority Business Enterprise (WMBE), boasts over 30 years of human resources expertise. Her impact extends to hi-tech startups, fast-growth companies and major brands like McDonald’s, Xerox, Creed Perfumery and more.

Ricardo Sebastián
Ricardo Sebastián, a pioneering leader in the LGBTQIA+ and BIPOC communities, is the executive director of OUTLOUD at JJLA, a groundbreaking entertainment and events agency. As a first-generation Mexican American, non-binary and pansexual individual, their commitment to inclusivity and diversity is at the forefront of their career.

Lori Shao
Lori Shao embodies the American Dream as an immigrant success story. After years in corporate America, she founded Finli Inc. to democratize access to financial resources for blue-collar entrepreneurs. Her journey from an entry-level job to entrepreneurship reflects her unwavering determination.

Greg Skalaski
Greg Skalaski is a visionary leader dedicated to driving diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) in the construction industry. As an executive sponsor, he accelerates careers and champions underrepresented groups within Shawmut.

Chahira Solh
Chahira Solh is an accomplished partner at Crowell & Moring LLP, where she holds the prestigious position of chair of the executive committee. As the youngest and first diverse female partner to serve in this capacity, she stands as an exemplary leader and advocate for diversity within the legal profession.

Gary Teo
Gary Teo is the EVP-chief human resources officer at East West Bank, known for his strategic leadership and dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). He is a trusted C-suite advisor with a results-driven mindset, guiding the bank through complex business transformations while prioritizing DEI initiatives.

Katrina “KT” Thornton
Katrina Thornton, known as “KT,” is Taco Bell’s chief equity, inclusion and belonging officer. Since joining in 2021, she partnered with all levels of the organization to build out, crystalized and transformed Taco Bell’s DE&I strategy.

Melody Tecson
Melody Tecson is the vice president of product management at Belkin International, with over two decades of dedicated service to fostering diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging (DEIB).

Julia Trankiem
Julia Trankiem, a partner at Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP in Los Angeles, serves as a trusted advisor to Fortune 100 companies. Specializing in labor and employment law, she is renowned for her prowess in navigating the complex landscape of California regulations and federal employment issues, making her a sought-after expert in her field.

Brian Sun
Brian Sun is a highly accomplished trial lawyer and partner at Norton Rose Fulbright. He has actively promoted diversity, equity and inclusion within the legal profession.

Michael Darrell Thomas
Michael Thomas, principal at Jackson Lewis P.C. in Orange County, leads the Corporate Diversity Counseling Practices Group. His expertise lies in assisting clients to develop and execute diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives, aligning with their values and legal standards.

Kiana Webb
Kiana Webb, founder of Glorious Arisings and CEO of Webb Family Enterprises, stands as a beacon of empowerment and leadership. With a remarkable career rooted in uplifting the Black community, her legacy shines brightly.

Michelle Wahler
Michelle Wahler, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Beyond Yoga, has driven the brand with an unwavering commitment to inclusivity and empowerment since its inception in 2005.

Alicia Vaz
Alicia Vaz, serving as chief diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI) officer and chair of the DEI Committee at Cox, Castle & Nicholson, is a driving force behind the firm’s efforts to enhance diversity in both its ranks and the broader legal community.

John Vaughan
John Vaughan, a dedicated leader at Verily Life Sciences LLC, serves in multiple roles including lead product counsel, interim chief privacy officer, and general counsel & corporate secretary at Granular, a Verily subsidiary.

Corey White
Corey White, founder and CEO of Cyvatar, is a dedicated advocate for diversity, equity, inclusion and accessibility (DEIA). At Cyvatar, he has partnered with Aleria to assess DEIA in the workplace, regularly involving Cyvatar employees in Aleria’s Inclusion Assessment.

Shawn Ray White
Shawn Ray White, nominated for the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Accessibility Champion Award, is a distinguished leader known for her unwavering commitment to fostering diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) within the legal profession.

Anita Wu
Anita Wu is a managing director at GHJ, specializing in profit participation services. With over 25 years of auditing experience in the entertainment industry, she oversees audits at major studios like Walt Disney Pictures and Television and MGM.

Yusuf Zakir
Yusuf Zakir is the chief diversity, equity & inclusion officer at Davis Wright Tremaine. With over eight years of experience at major law firms, he has dedicated his career to fostering diverse, equitable and inclusive environments.

Debora King Wondercheck
As the CEO and founder of the Arts & Learning Conservatory (ALC) and producer of the annual Juneteenth Gospel Voices of OC Concert, Debora King Wondercheck, M.S., Ed, is a passionate advocate for social justice and equality who has dedicated her life to making the arts accessible to all.

Peter Woo
Peter Woo is a principal at Jackson Lewis P.C., with a focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI). He co-founded the Asian American Insurance Network (AAIN) and currently serves as its board chairperson and president.

Raffi Zerounian
Raffi Zerounian is a partner and the Los Angeles market leader at Hanson Bridgett LLP. With nine years of dedicated service, he has played a crucial role in establishing and expanding the firm’s Los Angeles office, which now comprises around 50 professionals.

Valerie Williams
Valerie Williams, the force behind Converge, played a pivotal role during the summer of 2020 when racial awareness surged. Over 200 companies sought her expertise in anti-racism training and longterm DEI strategies.