Central Ohio Diversity Consortium

We are THRILLED to announce our inaugural 2024 Culture of Belonging Champion Awardees! Congratulations to: Keith B. Key - CEO & President KBK Enterprises "Culture of Belonging CEO Champion Award" Jose Morales-Crispin, MPAL - Director of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Office of the Ohio Public Defender "Culture of Belonging Individual Champion Award" Erik Farley - Chief People, Equity & Inclusion Officer YMCA of Central Ohio "Culture of Belonging Individual Champion Award" Dr. Kathryn McFarland - Chief Executive Officer Ohio School Board Association "Culture of Belonging Individual Champion Award" We are looking forward to celebrating these extraordinary leaders at our Culture Connection Awards Gala on December 5, 2024. This esteemed recognition is a testament to their exceptional dedication and tireless efforts in fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging within their respective company, organization and the broader community. At CODC, we believe promoting belonging, diversity, equity and inclusion not only transform your workplaces, moreover it inspires countless others to follow in your footsteps. The innovative initiatives these leaders have introduced and the inclusive practices they have championed are a shining example of what it means to be a true leader in our essential and vital work across central Ohio. Get your ticket today to join us!

Thank you to Suresh Rachuri and his company, Maven, for sponsoring our Gala! Maven has been driving business transformation through custom development, automation and technology talent solutions for the past 15 years. Guided by Malcolm Gladwell's book, The Tipping Point, Maven takes a people-first approach to making a positive impact on businesses. Read more about the work they're doing on their website: https://lnkd.in/g7FYjDmt

We'd like to give a special thanks to the Ohio School Boards Association for sponsoring our Culture Connection Awards Gala! Established in 1955, the association serves Ohio’s public school board members and the diverse districts they represent by fostering or delivering excellence in governance, steadfast advocacy, superior services, relevant professional development, and customized training. Learn more about them on their website: https://lnkd.in/eV34c_5

We can't wait to see everyone at our Culture Connection Award Gala tomorrow night! Thank you to the The Ohio State University Office of Diversity and Inclusion for being one of our many generous sponsors. The office supports the inclusive excellence mission of Ohio State to create a university where all individuals can fully participate in campus life. They offer consultations, services and resources for faculty and students, and they also lead education in diversity, equity and inclusion, as well as DEI analytics and reporting. Check out their website for more resources: https://odi.osu.edu/

Happy Holidays from the Central Ohio Diversity Consortium! Dear Members, Supporters and Allies- As the holiday season is now in full swing, I am filled with gratitude and joy for the vibrant and diverse community we have built together. This time of year is an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments we've achieved and the progress we've made in promoting diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging in Central Ohio. Your unwavering dedication and support have been the cornerstone of our success. Together, we have created spaces where every voice is heard and valued, and where cultural differences are celebrated. Our collective efforts have made a meaningful impact, and I am truly proud of all we have accomplished. As we gather with loved ones and celebrate the season, let us also take a moment to appreciate the beauty of our diverse community. It is our shared commitment to inclusion and equity that makes our consortium a beacon of hope and progress. May this holiday season bring you joy, peace, and togetherness. I look forward to continuing our journey together in the new year, working towards a more inclusive and equitable future for all. Thank you for your dedication and contributions. Happy Holidays! Warmest regards, Margaret D. Finley President, Central Ohio Diversity Consortium

Thank you to Franklin County Public Health for sponsoring our Culture Connection Awards Gala! The County Board of Health was established in October 1919 as a result of the Great Influenza, the most devastating pandemic flu on record. In 2010, the agency's name was changed to Franklin County Public Health (FCPH). Today they serve a population of 500,000+ in a growing suburban area, through multiple community-oriented programs, including immunization clinics, dental clinics, support for women, infants and children, and much more. Learn more on their website: https://myfcph.org/

The holiday weekend is over, but we're still giving thanks for all the sponsors of our upcoming Culture Connection Gala this Thursday! We're thankful to Mahogany Media Group LLC, which publishes a bi-monthly print and online magazine featuring influential and affluent People of Color making outstanding contributions in their careers and in service to their community. The population they represent accounts for almost 40% of the total population of Central Ohio, including African Americans, Latino/Latinx and recent African immigrants. Check out their latest issue! https://lnkd.in/g2zy9sEZ

Today we're shining a spotlight on another one of the generous sponsors of our Culture Connection Awards Gala, The National Center for Urban Solutions - NCUS! NCUS is a diversified social enterprise with an interdisciplinary approach to solving the needs of urban and underrepresented communities in workforce, health, and education. For more than 25 years, they have been a conduit in helping African Americans achieve self-sufficiency. Through their core competencies, they are a catalyst for positive change, dedicated to creating a brighter and more equitable future. Learn more on their website: https://lnkd.in/gDK6mhZi

We'd like to extend our gratitude to Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc., an industry leader in high-performing pipe and innovative water management solutions, for sponsoring our Culture Connection Gala! These solutions serve a wide variety of markets, including agriculture, airports, aviation and military, commercial, healthcare and many others. ADS has been named by Newsweek as one of America's Most Responsible Companies in 2024 and recognized for its commitment to environmental, social and corporate governance efforts for the second consecutive year. Learn more about ADS: https://www.adspipe.com/

Seats are filling up for what we believe will be a compelling conversation with these committed to the work leaders! Claim your seat today to join us! Register here: https://lnkd.in/gUnEHzDV