In a world where the journey towards diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) often feels like navigating uncharted territory, the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT) is setting a course for transformation with its upcoming symposium, “Moving Beyond What is Now: A Symposium on Fostering Accessibility, Equality, and Inclusion in Ohio’s Transportation Industry.” Scheduled for April 9 & 10 at the Cherry Valley Hotel & Ohio Event Center in Newark, this landmark event promises to be a beacon for professionals across the transportation sector and beyond.
At the heart of the symposium is keynote speaker Colette Holt, whose profound impact on civil rights, public contracting, and affirmative action has reverberated through the corridors of power and industry alike. Holt, who boasts a distinguished career punctuated by her roles as General Counsel to the American Contract Compliance Association, expert witness, and thought leader, is poised to share her wealth of knowledge and experience with attendees.
With a B.A. in Philosophy from Yale University and a J.D. from the University of Chicago Law School, Holt’s intellectual foundation is as impressive as her professional journey. Her career has seen her serving as a former Law Clerk to the Chief Judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, Assistant Corporation Counsel for the City of Chicago, and Chief Operating Officer of the Chicago Park District. Her academic contributions as a former Adjunct Professor at Loyola University School of Law and the John Marshall Law School further underscore her expertise and commitment to shaping future leaders in law and civil rights.
The symposium, under the theme “Moving Beyond What is Now,” aims to usher in a new era of accessibility, equality, and inclusion within Ohio’s transportation industry. Participants will delve into a range of critical topics, from the nuances of supporting Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) firms to the exploration of upcoming mega construction projects and workforce development strategies. The event is a clarion call to businesses and organizations to arm themselves with the knowledge and best practices necessary to nurture the growth of Small and Disadvantaged Businesses in Ohio.
Holt’s keynote address is anticipated to be a highlight of the symposium, offering insights into the evolving landscape of DE&I programs across the nation and the vital role of affirmative action and public contracting in fostering a more inclusive economy. Her extensive experience in conducting disparity studies and crafting policies that defend and promote affirmative action programs will provide invaluable perspectives to attendees.
As OhioMBE prepares to feature this exceptional event and its distinguished keynote speaker, the message is clear: the time to move beyond the status quo and champion a more inclusive future is now. Colette Holt, with her unparalleled expertise and dedication to civil rights, is not just a speaker but a beacon of hope and change. The symposium represents not just an event but a step forward in our collective journey towards a more equitable and inclusive world.
For more information and to register for the symposium, please visit https://www.transportation.ohio.gov/about-us/conferences/civil-rights-transportation-symposium?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery. Join us as we embark on this pivotal journey to reshape the landscape of Ohio’s transportation industry and beyond.
