Pharrell’s Mighty Dream forum coming to Norfolk Nov. 1-3
Executives from Google, H&M, Universal Music Group, Yelp and McDonald’s will join Grammy winner Pharrell Williams Nov. 1-3 in Norfolk for his Mighty Dream forum, a sequel to last fall’s Elephant in the Room event. Along with panel discussions and networking events focused on making work and business opportunities more equitable and supporting and growing […]
Greater Washington Partnership unveils 10-year inclusivity plan
The Greater Washington Partnership released its “Regional Blueprint for Inclusive Growth” Monday, a 10-year plan to increase equity and create a more inclusive economy in the capital region, spanning Baltimore to Richmond. The plan was launched at an event hosted by Sheila Johnson, CEO of Salamander Hotels and Resorts and an owner of three pro […]
JMU hires first DEI VP
James Madison University has named Malika Carter its inaugural vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion and chief diversity officer, the university announced Monday. Carter will start Aug. 25. “This appointment is a great honor,” Carter said in a statement. “JMU is well positioned to become, in the field of inclusion, a lead institution that […]
VCU Massey Center names internship for attorney
Virginia Commonwealth University’s Massey Cancer Center has established an internship named for Hunton Andrews Kurth LLP Partner Rudene Mercer Haynes, the law firm announced last week. “I am humbled by this honor and pledge to continue my support of the live-saving and life-changing work performed by the brilliant clinicians and researchers at VCU Massey Cancer […]
Northrop Grumman taps chief diversity officer
Falls Church-based Fortune 500 defense contractor Northrop Grumman Corp. has promoted Kenny Robinson to vice president and chief diversity officer, effective May 31. Robinson will be responsible for advancing Northrop Grumman’s diversity, equity and inclusion strategy and programs, the company’s corporate citizenship, DEI and ethics programs, as well as serve as president of the Northrop [&hel[...]
DEI openers
Every movement has its moment. And now appears to be the moment for diversity, equity and inclusion officers in C-suites, academia and government. Black Lives Matters protests sparked by the police killing of George Floyd in May 2020 broadened awareness of race-based inequities that exist in the United States, including inequality in hiring and job […]
The Visionary
The online version of this article includes additional material from Virginia Business’ interview with Pharrell Williams. Pharrell Williams is a 13-time Grammy winner, an Oscar nominee, a fashion designer, a film producer, a music superstar and innovator. He’s also a native Virginian — a point that comes across strongly when he discusses his business ventures […]
Great responsibility
“Business can be a force for good. I absolutely believe it,” says Byron L. Boston, CEO and co-chief investment officer of Glen Allen-based real estate investment trust Dynex Capital Inc. “CEOs have an obligation to use profit to do positive things in the community.” Boston and 11 other prominent Black business and nonprofit leaders spoke […]
The 2022 Black business leaders issue
The Visionary Superstar Pharrell Williams has dream of equitable economic success for Hampton Roads and Virginia DEI openers Hiring of diversity and equity chiefs is on upswing Great responsibility Black business leaders pay it forward
Mentorship and management
Brought to you by Virginia Business and Bank of America, in 2021 we hosted a diverse group of six Virginia business leaders for three Diversity Leadership Series events. These virtual fireside chats featured the executives sharing their insights on leadership, their career paths, and diversity and equity. The third installment of our series took place […]
The Motley Fool hires chief diversity and inclusion officer
Alexandria-based financial services company The Motley Fool Holdings Inc. has hired its first chief diversity and inclusion officer, the company announced Wednesday. Rachel Williams joined the company on Nov. 12. She will work on recruiting, leadership development, employee engagement and retention. Her focus will also include advising The Motley Fool’s product and marketing teams. Williams [...]
Virginia ABC names first chief transformation officer
The Virginia Alcoholic Beverage Control Authority has named Elizabeth Chu its first chief transformation officer, the authority announced Wednesday. Chu will guide Virginia ABC’s transformative efforts to ensure priorities and objectives are met, overseeing project management and business transformation, as well as diversity, equity and inclusion, according to a news release from the state A[...]