“The Business Case for Diversity” Panel Discussion, May 2 in Bellevue

Why is diversity vitally important to the success of businesses and organizations today? That is just one question that will be answered at Business Case for Diversity, a panel discussion featuring top industry experts on May 2, 5:30 – 7:30 PM at City University, 150 120th Ave NE, Bellevue, Building F, Room 1029; telephone: 800-426-5596, TTY: 425-450-4660, www.cityu.edu. This event is sponsored by City University, That Brown Girl Catering, and the City of Bellevue Parks & Community Services Cultural Diversity Program. This event is free and open to the community. Refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to the Cultural Diversity Office at 425-452-2835 or to Kevin Henry at khenry@ci.bellevue.wa.us. Seating is limited. Topics covered will include workforce diversity recruitment and retention, resolving internal workplace issues, diversity trends in business, marketing to diverse audiences and diversity as a creative force in organization. A 30-minute question and answer session will follow the panel presentation and discussion. Confirmed panelists to date are: George Northcroft – Business and civic leader with experience in financial management, marketing and operations in Fortune 500 companies, and the Director of Business Relations & Economic Development for King County Executive Ron Sims. Kirk Adams - General Manager of Administration for Seattle Lighthouse for the Blind, a private, not-for-profit agency providing employment, support, and training opportunities for people who are blind, deaf-blind, and blind with other disabilities. Jacqueline Hill - President of Pathways Human Development Group, a training and consulting firm specializing in developing high performance in organizations and enhancing personal development. Michael E. Sotelo - President of Approach Management Systems, President of the Washington State Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and Vice President and partner at WG Clark Construction Co. Also featured will be a panelist from the Greater Seattle Business Association, an organization dedicated to expanding business opportunities for the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgendered populations. “Valuing diversity and demonstrating commitment to intercultural competence are necessities for any successful business or organization in today’s multi-cultural and interconnected world. The creativity of a diverse workforce contributes to an organization’s ability to meet the needs of the global marketplace.” Lee Gorsuch, President, City University.