RECORDING: A Diverse Workforce Requires a Diverse Pipeline: How the PhD Project Is Changing Academia
At the time that I joined a then “Big 8” accounting firm in Detroit, Michigan, there was one Black female partner in an office of close to 1000 professionals (Deloitte & Touche, 1991, Betty Maple); and she was in tax, not audit. It never occurred to me that I would remain at the firm for more than a year or two since I had no indication that someone like me could succeed there. Fortunately, two of my professors planted the seed that I should consider returning for a PhD. And even more important, The PhD Project launched as I started the third year of my PhD program so that I had a network and the support that I needed to complete it. In 1994, I was one of the 175 minority doctoral students in business schools across the country. Today, I am one of the 1346 faculty.
You will walk away from this chat with:
An understanding of why you should pursue the PhD program you’ve been considering
The link between diverse education and diverse professionals
How you can apply to The PhD Project
Richelle Oakley (She/Her)
Dr. Richelle L. Oakley is an Associate Professor of Information Systems (IS) in the Mike Cottrell College of Business at the University of North Georgia. Her research interests include examining the role of technology in helping organizations achieve social goals that benefit society and examining the impact of emerging technology on human behavior. Recently in 2017-2019, Dr. Oakley was part of a team that was awarded approximately $400K in a National Science Foundation 3-year targeted infusion project grant to develop Interdisciplinary Data Analytics Certificate program at Savannah State University (her former institution). She has published her research in top-ranked IS and has presented her research at numerous regional, national, and international IS conferences.
Dr. Oakley is also actively involved in various service activities. She is a faculty mentor for the McNair Scholars program and is working with an undergraduate student on research examining user perceptions of disinformation in social media. For over 8 years, she has worked closely with KPMG’s Ph.D. Project, specifically with the Information Systems Doctoral Student Association (ISDSA). Dr. Oakley also serves as the President of the Southern Association for Information Systems (AIS).
Paquita Davis-Friday (She/Her)
Paquita Y. Davis-Friday is the Senior Associate Dean in the Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College and a professor in the Stan Ross Department of Accountancy. She earned her Ph.D. in accounting, MAE, MAcc and BBA from the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor. Before entering the Ph.D. program, she was as an auditor and tax account for Deloitte and was certified in 1992 by the State of Michigan as a public accountant. Paquita currently serves on the Board of Trustees of Pollyanna Inc., a non-profit organization dedicated to helping institutions achieve their diversity, equity and inclusion goals.
RECORDING: Gaining Buy-In As The First Diverse Person On A Team
I have been a Woman in Tech before it was a “thing”. I have a Computer Science degree from the University of Texas at Austin and have been in the Retail Technology sector for almost 20 years. When I first started my career back in the year 2000, I was one of 2 women on my team but the ONLY black woman in the company. Being the “first” or the “only” in most anything is a daunting task. During this Chat and Learn session, I want to talk to you about my experience being in this position and how I help others who are in this position today.
You will walk away from this chat with:
Strategies on how to gain buy-in and respect from the majority of your team
The understanding that if you are the first or the only, you can help to create a more inclusive space for the other diverse people who may join the team
Barbara Jones (She/Her)
Barbara Jones is a serial entrepreneur and is currently the Founder/CEO of Freeing Returns (formerly known asLillii RNB), a leading IT consulting firm that helps Fortune 500 companies and government agencies increase their revenue, while improving the retail experience. We provide world-class subject matter experts in the areas of POS, Data Analytics, Fraud Prevention and IT Staffing.
From Imposter to Impact: Owning Your Power
The journey from feeling like an imposter to making a meaningful impact is one that many women find challenging. The discussion "From Imposter to Impact: Owning Your Power" will provide you with strategies to navigate the journey by examining the power of authenticity and self-awareness. By the end of this empowering session, you will have a robust toolkit to navigate the complexities of the corporate structure. This talk is more than just a learning experience; it's a call to action. A call to be intentional, to own your unique value, and to make a lasting impact in your organization and career. So, come ready to engage, to challenge yourself, and most importantly, to own your power.
Arretta Stivers (She/Her)
Arretta is a seasoned Contact Center expert with 20+ years in the industry. A results-focused Operations Executive, Arretta has led transformative initiatives, driving revenue growth and operational excellence across diverse industries. Her career is marked by strategic prowess, leadership acumen, and prowess in designing organizational architecture.
Navigating Your Career Journey
Join us for an inspiring fireside chat with Kevin L. Henderson, Vice President of DEI People Strategies at UnitedHealth Group, as he shares valuable insights from his remarkable career journey. Kevin will provide practical advice on overcoming challenges, advancing in your career, and integrating diversity, equity, and inclusion principles into your professional path. Gain personalized tips from a seasoned leader who has successfully navigated the complexities of organizational culture and leadership. Questions for Kevin are welcome!
Kevin Henderson (He/Him)
Kevin is currently responsible for integrating DEI strategies into core talent strategies and processes including recruiting, development, retention and advancement of talent while partnering closely with the Talent Offices, Chief People Officers and other key stakeholders. He is also responsible for leading DEI Research, DEI Enterprise National Partnerships and DEI Innovation Labs. He celebrated his two-year anniversary in November 2023 with UnitedHealth Group. Prior to joining UnitedHealth Group, Kevin served in various Human Resources leadership roles at Eli Lilly and Company for over 14 years. In addition to DEI, his experience includes Human Capital strategy, HR strategic business partnership, talent acquisition, talent management, total rewards, corporate accounting and internal audit. Kevin has extensive international experience and served as the Sr. HR Director & Chief People Officer for Eli Lilly Australia, New Zealand and the North Asia Pacific Hub. Kevin is a proud alumnus of DePaul University (Bachelor) and Duke University (MBA).
Leading at the Intersections: Use Your Differences as a Superpower
Companies and organizations across the country are seeking diverse talent and perspectives to join their ranks. While the intention marks a positive stride, corporations and employers will need to implement strategies in honoring the needs and backgrounds of all employees, especially those carrying intersectional identities. As microaggressions increase within companies, ensuring that organizations recognize and embrace the intersectional identities of their people could be the key to retaining top talent and increasing corporate reputation. Join us as we explore the potential of intersectionality to drive innovation, inclusivity, and learn how two leaders with intersectional identities have embraced their backgrounds to create change and lead transformative solutions within their careers
Tyler Blackburn (He/Him)
Tyler Blackburn is a senior associate director at APCO Worldwide and is based in Chicago, Illinois. He is a member of the firm’s corporate communications and equity and justice practice and focuses on managing a variety of projects for small and large accounts , serving as an account lead for client support. He brings extensive education communication experience to APCO, previously working with Evanston/Skokie School District 65 and Chicago Public Schools. Mr. Blackburn holds a master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago in Digital Media and Storytelling, as well as a certificate from Harvard University from their Promoting Racial Equity in the Workplace program. He has also received certification from the Intercultural Development Inventory organization for diversity-related work.
Akinyi Ochieng (She/Her)
Akinyi Ochieng, a senior associate director at APCO Worldwide in New York, advises on programs and partnerships for economic and social progress in vulnerable communities. She focuses on education, gender equity, racial justice, and economic mobility in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Beyond APCO, she has excelled in organizations driving financial inclusion and supply chain sustainability. Notably, she led brand and communications at Nova Credit and managed corporate communications at WorldRemit, a global remittance leader. Passionate about African affairs, she spearheaded multi-million-dollar public-private initiatives, such as the Sustainable Shea Initiative, aiming to empower West African women economically. Her insights on African business, culture, and politics have been featured in Forbes, CNBC, BBC, Quartz, African Business Magazine, and the World Economic Forum. She actively serves on the U.S. boards of SOS Sahel and Operation Fistula, dedicated to African development. Akinyi holds an MSc in Global Politics from the London School of Economics, a BA in Political Science and African Studies from Yale University, and a certificate in Strategic Philanthropy from the University of Cambridge’s Judge School of Business. In 2019, she was honored among the 100 Most Influential People of African Descent in media under 40.