Attention to representation and inclusion make better learning and working environments. When students and employees feel valued, it motivates them. When they feel respected, it positively affects retention in the classroom and the workplace. The benefits of varying viewpoints and perspectives outweigh the alternative. Mutual respect between students and between employees promotes easier conflict resolution. When people recognize each other's’ differences, they also find similarities. Learning from those with different work styles and attitudes about work, force you to step outside of your comfort zone and push your limits.

Cultivating a variety of voices fosters creativity, offering a range of perspectives and ideas. When people bring different talents, skills, and experiences to the table, the reach of an idea inevitably expands. Building relationships between groups is essential. In the classroom, group work is given, often met with groans. But teambuilding is imperative for the future workplace environment. In business, often one person has the idea, while another has the skill to execute the idea effectively. With a team, the idea is more likely to come to fruition. Creating excitement about inclusion rather than obligation builds overall morale in the classroom or workplace, making students and employees more productive.

"We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their color." – Maya  Angelou

Social media has changed the way we communicate. We are more connected than ever before, and yet more isolated because we are tethered to our phones. Social media creates a sense of urgency to share and stay abreast of online developments. How do you navigate these constantly evolving online landscapes safely and professionally? Be cognizant of how you represent yourself and your business in the professional world.

Your digital footprint is permanent. Building your online brand means creating a fan base with creative taglines. Effective exposure means linking to other social media channels, interacting with like-minded accounts, and publishing personal content via videos and recordings. Strategic self-promotion is based on authenticity, sharing your ideas and your talents. Balancing confidence and humility is imperative when publishing material and commenting on a variety of social media platforms.

Dealing with online hate is inevitable. Focus on the positives and do not take negative comments personally. Defining your own moral code means speaking your truth, listening to others, and admitting mistakes quickly. Staying aware of how you’re representing yourself is vital to remaining social media savvy.

"I can’t think of any better representation of beauty than someone who is unafraid to be herself." - Emma Stone

Harassment is a systemic issue and a pervasive problem for employees of all ages and backgrounds working at every level across all sectors. The abuse of power and lack of knowledge concerning harassment have allowed it continue. The goal of the panel is to explore strategies for creating a more positive, productive workplace culture, one in which harassment isn’t ignored, tolerated, or inadvertently promoted, and ultimately exposed. What constitutes harassment? Many cases go unreported, making toxic and unproductive work environments. Verbal and physical violations are often repetitive and can negatively affect an individual’s job performance. Letting the perpetrator know the behavior is unwelcome, reporting the problem and documenting the incidents are all strategies for dealing with harassment. But the question is how. All workplaces are different and situations vary per individual.

In addition, employees may be unaware of their organization’s sexual harassment policy, even though many organizations have policies in place. Also, what should you do if you have knowledge of misconduct between co-workers, of one person bullying another? The panelists will focus on the individual and systemic factors that cause workplace harassment and ways to decrease its frequency.

"We need to be sure that we can go out and look anyone who is a victim of harassment in the eye and say, You do not have to remain silent anymore." - Anita Hill