Through the Workplace Inclusion Network (WIN), the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities convenes professionals who support or lead diversity and inclusion efforts within their organizations. These gatherings provide a unique opportunity for DEI leaders to hear from experts in the field and share best practices with one another while networking with professionals from across the region.

2025 WIN PROGRAM CALENDAR
“DEI Headwinds and Tailwinds”

The past few years have been a period of great change in Virginia and across the country when navigating diversity, equity, and inclusion.  There have been major advances – and also significant challenges.  The 2025 Workplace Inclusion Network will explore “DEI Headwinds and Tailwinds,” giving participants the opportunity to reflect on recent trends, connect with colleagues across industries, and explore best practices for how to advance inclusion within their organizations.

 *** Once again this year, each WIN membership comes with complimentary seat(s) at the September 4, 2025 Virginia Inclusion Summit!

• 2025 Overview & Session Descriptions
• Registration Form – pay by check or pay by credit card (additional processing fees added to cost)

Session 1: February 26, 2025 | Virtual
Overcoming a Culture of Fear
Many organizations are grappling with the headwinds of fear, resistance, and uncertainty that can slow progress on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. This session will explore how fear manifests in workplace cultures – whether through hesitancy to address “uncomfortable” topics, fear of making mistakes, or reluctance to challenge the status quo. Participants will engage in practical discussions on overcoming these barriers and creating environments where inclusion can thrive.

Session 2: April 30, 2025 | Virtual
Leveraging Data to Advance DEI
Organizations often rely on data when making important decisions, but what could be possible if they engaged with it consistently? In this workshop, participants will explore ways to collect and analyze data to support and measure the DEI efforts at their organizations. They will also consider how data can show bias, and ways individuals may be biased against data. By the end of this session, participants will consider ways to apply what they learned in order to better measure and improve organizational outcomes.

Session 3: Select your in-person session:
June 25, 2025 | In-person (for Hampton Roads area organizations)
July 9, 2025 | In-person (for Richmond area organizations)
Making the Crucial Case for DEI in the Workplace
In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives are more critical than ever. This workshop delves into the compelling reasons why DEI should be at the forefront of organizational strategy and what is at risk if these efforts are sidelined. Participants will explore the tangible benefits of robust DEI programs and the potential repercussions of neglecting or dismantling them. Through group insights, real-world examples, and interactive discussions, participants will be guided through strategies and best practices for making the case for DEI.

Session 4: November 19, 2025 | Virtual
Emerging Issues in DEI
As organizations navigate a landscape of social change and heightened awareness, understanding and addressing emerging issues in diversity, equity, and inclusion has become essential for success. This workshop dives into the latest trends and challenges within the DEI space, highlighting why staying ahead of these issues is vital for fostering a healthy workplace culture. Participants will explore how shifting social expectations and diverse workforce needs impact their organizations and learn how to adapt effectively.

2024 WIN PROGRAM CALENDAR
“Constructive & Inclusive Dialogue”

Constructive and inclusive dialogue has been a cornerstone of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities’ work dating back to our founding in 1935. At a time of great separation due to the pandemic and political polarization, the 2024 Workplace Inclusion Network is designed to provide frameworks, tools, and resources to support dialogues that can (re-)build community. Participants will have the opportunity to connect with others across a range of industries and learn about best practices to that they can apply within their organizations.

• 2024 Overview & Session Descriptions
• Registration Form – no longer available (pay by check)
• Register Online – no longer available (pay by credit card – additional processing fees added to cost)

Session 1: February 28, 2024 | Virtual
Tools for Effective Dialogue
Effective dialogue can help create transformative relationships and  interactions beyond surface-level discussions, enabling individuals to connect, appreciate diverse perspectives, and explore deeply ingrained beliefs. This session provides participants with practical tools and strategies to navigate challenging dialogues. Participants will acquire the skills to address even the most sensitive subjects through productive and respectful dialogue.

Session 2: April 17, 2024 | Virtual
Processing Key Moments
In moments of crisis and conflict, employees often look to their colleagues and organizations for support. Sometimes, workplaces put out public or internal statements after key moments. At other times, they may need to provide opportunities for dialogue and healing. In this workshop, participants will consider individual and organizational approaches that can be taken to process key moments. Resources and strategies to make workplaces more inclusive will be highlighted.

Session 3: Select your in-person session:
June 26, 2024 | In-person (for Richmond area organizations)
July 10, 2024 | In-person (for Hampton Roads area organizations)
Inclusive Facilitation Skills
Facilitation skills are key to fostering workplace inclusion. In this session, participants will consider ways to guide conversation and model intentional inclusion during discussions. Further considerations will include how to guide and lead inclusive conversations, and acknowledge group dynamics to facilitate effectively. Participants will leave with a greater sense of how to foster belonging in the workplace through inclusive facilitation.

Session 4: November 20, 2024 | Virtual
Building Inclusive Teams
Workplace inclusion is the hallmark of a successful teamthat produces a high-quality product consistently. Inclusive teams thrive in effective communication, meeting client needs, understanding multiples viewpoints, and retaining  a diverse workforce. In this  workshop, participants will consider strategies and frameworks for building and retaining inclusive teams.

***New benefit this year: Each WIN membership comes with complimentary registrations at 2024 Virginia Inclusion Summit (September 5, 2024)!

If you are interested in being added to our WIN mailing list, please contact VCIC.