The Gary-based Urban League of Northwest Indiana will host its annual Diversity and Inclusion Luncheon Nov. 7.
Now in its 12th year, the event highlights Urban League of Northwest Indiana’s work in the area of diversity and inclusion. Team members regularly conduct DEI training and outreach in Lake, Porter and La Porte counties.
The luncheon provides a platform to recognize the contributions of businesses, nonprofit and civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals that advocate for diversity and inclusion programs and initiatives across Northwest Indiana.
Ken Iwama, Indiana University vice president for regional campuses and online education, will deliver the keynote address. Iwama assumed his new role with Indiana University July 1. During his tenure at IU Northwest, he helped foster an environment that led to a surge in regional campus grant activity and awards. Iwama’s address will highlight the importance of and strides made in diversity and inclusion in higher education.
“It is important to remind everyone that diversity and inclusion are not just buzzwords,” said Vanessa Allen-McCloud, Urban League of NWI president and CEO, in a press release. “Through our programs and services, we are committed to developing real-life, workplace environments that are welcoming, equitable, diverse and inclusive. It is always an honor to recognize individuals and entities that are doing the same.”
This year's honorees include:
- Community Award – Women's Care Center
- Leadership – Project Neighbors
- Workforce Diversity – Hilltop House
- Youth – Junior Achievement
- Moving the Needle – Hard Rock Casino of Northern Indiana
- Minority Business – The Blind Social Center
- Lifetime Achievement – Ed Williams
The Diversity and Inclusion Luncheon will take place 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Nov. 7 at the Avalon Manor in Merrillville. Learn more here.
The Urban League of Northwest Indiana works to support and promote cultural diversity and economic opportunities while fueling transformational change in Northwest Indiana. The league serves Lake, Porter and La Porte counties. The Urban League of Northwest Indiana was founded over 79 years ago.
