The 2025 conference will be held in person at The Westin Richmond (6631 W Broad St, Richmond, VA 23230).

Event Space Layout for Conference

Registration opens on May 1, 2025 and can be completed via this website when available (scroll down).

Hotel Reservations

Stay at The Westin Richmond for a special conference rate of $174 per night, available Wednesday, September 3 and/or Thursday, September 4. The special rate expires on August 14, 2025 or when capacity is reached.

To book the group rate online, use this link *you will be redirected to The Westin Richmond’s website to complete your booking.*

Making the Case for Diversity | Amanda Hurwitt

This workshop will invite participants to consider the impact of workplace diversity on organizational success. Participants will explore frameworks, strategies, and data to build a deeper understanding of how diversity in the workplace can support better organizational outcomes and lead to increased well-being and belonging for all employees. Attendees will leave the session with strategies to help them make the case for diversity in their workplace.

Facilitator: 

Amanda Hurwitt is the Educational Programs Coordinator at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC). In her role, Amanda designs, coordinates, delivers, and evaluates diversity and inclusion programs conducted for students and educators across Virginia. In the community, Amanda is involved with yoga and mindfulness programs. She has a particular passion for supporting youth health and wellness in the community through the promotion of mindfulness practices in educational and community spaces. Amanda earned her Bachelor of Arts in Modern Foreign Languages from James Madison University and attended Old Dominion University to receive her Virginia teaching license.

Making the Case for Equity | Jessica M. Hawthorne

When working toward more equitable workplaces, organizations must consider the policies, practices, structures and traditions that can impact employees’ belonging and well-being. In this session, participants will consider how their workplace currently strives for equity, as well as opportunities to increase equity. Participants will be able to explore practices in equity work that can be tailored to meet the needs of their organization, whether large or small. Attendees will leave the session with strategies to help them continue to make the case for equity in their workplace.

Facilitator: 

Jessica M. Hawthorne is Vice President of Programs at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities. In her role, she designs and facilitates educational programs on diversity, equity, and inclusion for institutions across Virginia. Jessica first engaged with VCIC as a volunteer for youth one-day forums and as a community facilitator for the Unpacking the Census program. In her time at VCIC, she has delivered over 1,200 programs and events. In Jessica’s current role, she guides the program staff team across all sectors and leads VCIC’s program evaluation efforts. In the community, Jessica has served on the faculty of the Koinonia School for Race and Justice at Richmond Hill, and she was a member of both the Juvenile Justice Collaborative Youth Violence Prevention Workgroup and the Trauma-Informed Community Network. Jessica received her undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia in Religious Studies, concentrating in African Religions and Islam. She also earned a Master of Theological Studies from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University.

Making the Case for Inclusion | Alejandro Prince

Though inclusion discourse is increasingly in the spotlight, implementing best practices in our spheres of influence may still prove challenging. This session explores the meanings of inclusion in our current landscape, introduces frameworks for developing organizational practices around the concept, and provides strategies for addressing barriers therein. Participants can expect an interactive experience that increases self-awareness, deepens motivation to make the case for this significant work, and consider practical steps to operationalize inclusion.

Facilitator: 

Alejandro Prince is the Director of Educational Programs at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC). In his role, Alejandro designs, coordinates, and facilitates programs, events, and conferences on diversity, equity, and inclusion primarily for educators and students across the Commonwealth. Prior to joining VCIC, Alejandro worked with a Community Action Agency delivering programs centered on violence prevention, trauma-informed education, healthy relationships, and college/career readiness for youth. His research and experience with curricula development center on the connections of moral philosophy, racial justice, gender & sexuality, history, and psychology. He is especially interested in the role that educators play in positive human development for peaceful communities and just societies. In the community, Alejandro serves on the Governing Body of the Virginia Sexual and Domestic Violence Action Alliance. Before moving to Virginia, he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies from Azusa Pacific University and his Master’s in Theological Studies with a Certificate in African American and Diaspora Studies from Vanderbilt University.

Making the Case for Belonging | Jacqueline “Jacquie” Johnson

Diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts are only truly transformative when they foster a culture of belonging—where individuals feel seen, valued, and empowered to contribute fully. This interactive session will explore the powerful impact belonging has on employee engagement, retention, mental health, and overall organizational success. Participants will examine the critical role leaders and peers play in creating environments where everyone feels respected and connected. Through real-world examples and reflective exercises, participants will leave with actionable strategies to foster deeper belonging within their teams, organizations, and communities.

Facilitator: 

Jacqueline “Jacquie” Johnson is Director of Professional Development at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC). Jacquie has a diverse background that includes workplace diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI) strategy, instructional design, and underrepresented community outreach and engagement. Jacquie is especially interested in how DEI practices, adult learning, and inner self-work help organizations recognize the full humanity of its workforce and foster communities where everyone thrives. Before joining VCIC, she managed special projects and training programs for the National Trust for Historic Preservation, American Association for Access, Equity and Diversity, and Morgan Lewis, a global law firm. Jacquie received her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Old Dominion University, and her Master’s degree in Anthropology from George Washington University.

Diverse Minds & Inclusive Spaces: Understanding Neurodiversity in the Workplace | Charm Bullard

In this interactive session, participants will explore the fundamentals of neurodiversity, including definitions, common neurodivergent identities and the importance of inclusive practices in professional settings. This session will offer practical strategies for creating environments where all minds can thrive. Whether you’re new to the topic or seeking to strengthen your inclusive leadership, this workshop will deepen your understanding and equip you to support neurodivergent colleagues with empathy and intention.

Facilitator:

Charm Bullard, M. Ed., serves as the Senior Advisor to the CEO at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC). In her role, Charm designs and facilitates educational programs focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) for institutions across Virginia, with a specialization in workplace and community programs. Since joining VCIC in 2016, Charm has successfully conducted over 1,000 workshops across the Commonwealth of Virginia. Her facilitation is distinguished by her warmth and humor, making complex DEI concepts accessible and engaging. Charm’s dedication to DEI began during her 13 years in various student affairs roles on collegiate campuses throughout the Southeast. It was during this time that she discovered her passion for fostering diversity and inclusion. Charm holds a Bachelor’s degree in English from Lander University and a Master’s degree in Education with an emphasis on College Student Affairs Administration from the University of Georgia.

Exploring Race and Ethnicity | Sarah E. Cribbs

Curious about race and ethnicity? This workshop will unpack core concepts and briefly unpack how these social constructs shape our lives, interactions, and institutions. Participants will be able to reflect on their own knowledge and experiences. Through focused discussion, attendees will gain a foundational understanding of race and ethnicity and their impact on workplaces and society.

Facilitator:

Sarah E. Cribbs, Ph.D., is a passionate DEI leader, researcher, and human-centered problem solver with experience and proven success partnering cross-organizationally to plan, design, develop and deliver sustained and sustainable progress across multiple industries. She is an associate professor of sociology at Randolph-Macon College where she teaches courses related to social identities, social inequalities, and research methods. Her research interests include examining pathways to improve intercultural competence, studying how individuals accomplish racial boundary-making, and exploring how racial attitudes influence policy decisions. She currently serves as the Director of Black Studies, Director of the Honors Program, Council member of Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies, Chair of the RMC Non-Discrimination Committee, Vice Chair of the Institutional Review Board, Chair of the faculty’s Executive Committee, member of Grievance Committee, and trainer for all faculty search committees.

Exploring Religion in the Workplace | Chris Burton

This is an interactive workshop designed to foster understanding, inclusion, and respect for religious diversity in professional settings. Participants will engage in thoughtful dialogue about the role of personal beliefs at work, legal protections, and strategies for creating inclusive environments. Through real-world scenarios and guided discussion, attendees will explore how to navigate religious expression, accommodate diverse practices, and address potential conflicts with empathy and professionalism. This workshop is ideal for HR professionals, managers, and employees alike. It aims to equip participants with tools to build a more inclusive, respectful, and culturally aware workplace.

Facilitator:

Chris Burton is a minister, teacher, writer, and professional speaker who works with various groups to bring together people who may be surprised by what they have in common. Chris is the Director of the Leadership Institute at Union Presbyterian Seminary, and co-founder of Alpha & Omega Media Group. He is a proud Davidson alum, was named “an innovator in ministry you should know” by the Presbyterian Outlook, and his speaking was featured in TEDx. His writing has been featured in The Presbyterian Outlook, Boomshots, The Hill, Unbound, Interpretation, Freedom Road, and The Christian Century.

Exploring Socioeconomic Status | Amasa Monroe

Class is defined by Felice Yeskel as a “relative social rank in terms of income, wealth, education, status and/or power.” In this interactive workshop, participants will reflect on their own class backgrounds and consider similarities to and differences from others in terms of how class has impacted their lives. They will also have the opportunity to consider ways to ensure that class is not a barrier to full participation and engagement within their institution and sphere of influence.

Facilitator:

Amasa Monroe is the Community Programs Coordinator at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC). In his role, Amasa develops, evaluates, delivers, and coordinates programs on diversity and inclusion primarily for nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and community coalitions throughout Virginia. Amasa has held previous roles with nonprofits during his time in North Carolina, including Habitat for Humanity, where he helped advance their mission and built relationships within the community, as well as with a local nonprofit working in underserved communities. Prior to joining VCIC, Amasa worked as a School Counselor, providing essential support to students, families, and educators. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Missouri State University and a Master of Education in School Counseling from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. With a strong foundation in psychology, counseling, and nonprofit work, along with his passion for inclusion and relationship-building, Amasa is committed to driving meaningful change and fostering lasting impact through his work at VCIC.

Ask VCIC | Jonathan C. Zur

The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities is frequently engaged to provide expert consultation, leadership coaching, and thought partnership on some of the most complex issues of our time. This interactive session will provide attendees with the opportunity to learn more about how VCIC is approaching the moment. Content will be based on pre-submitted questions and requests from Virginia Inclusion Summit registrants. Participants in this session will hear about emerging trends and best practices to advance inclusion within their spheres of influence.

Facilitator:

Jonathan C. Zur is President & CEO of the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC), an organization that works with schools, business, and communities to achieve success through inclusion. Under Jonathan’s leadership, VCIC has quadrupled the size of the staff, tripled the size of the budget, and the number of programs the organization delivers annually increased by 3,000%. Additionally, VCIC has been recognized locally and nationally for its effectiveness. An experienced facilitator and consultant, Jonathan was appointed by the Governor of Virginia to the Commonwealth Commission on Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, formed in the aftermath of the tragedy in Charlottesville in August 2017. In 2016, Jonathan was a speaker at the inaugural White House Summit on Diversity and Inclusion in Government. He earned his B.A. from the University of Richmond and he received a Certificate in Nonprofit Executive Leadership from the Center on Philanthropy at Indiana University.

Countering Disinformation | Tally Botzer

With so much access to information available at an instant, it seems like it should be simple to identify and correct disinformation – and yet, it turns out to be anything but simple. As more and more individuals, organizations, and identities become subjects of unreliable and even dangerous disinformation, it becomes more vital to be able to spot disinformation, effectively respond to it, and consider ways to keep it from coming up in the first place. This workshop will invite participants to deepen the work of inclusion by exploring evidence-based strategies for countering disinformation.

Facilitator:

Tally Botzer (she/they) is a lifelong learner and career educator with over a decade of experience in public and nonprofit service in Virginia. Throughout their previous work as a classroom teacher, Civil War museum educator, and VCIC program director, Tally has been steered by her commitment to equity and justice. In their current role as Coordinator of Professional Development with Virginia’s Community Colleges System Office, Tally collaborates with faculty, staff, and administrators at all 23 colleges in the VCCS to ensure that every employee of every college and office feels prepared to meet the needs of their students, colleagues, and communities. Tally earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and currently resides in Richmond with their spouse and an assortment of cats and dogs.

Responding to Key Moments | Meagan Starks

In moments of internal conflict or larger national or local crises, 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 power-packed session, participants will consider individual and organizational approaches that can be taken to process key moments.

Facilitator:

Meagan Starks is the Director of Hampton Roads Programs at the Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities (VCIC). In her role, Meagan designs, coordinates, and facilitates programs and events on diversity, equity, and inclusion throughout Hampton Roads. Prior to joining VCIC, Meagan spent over 17 years teaching K-12 Spanish in both public and private institutions. She worked closely with school administrators to promote a culture of belonging and understanding amongst faculty and students. She also has a deep-rooted connection to the special needs community; with a passion for promoting Autism acceptance and connecting families with community resources. Outside of her professional role, she is an active member of a local roller derby league. Meagan holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish from Old Dominion University, as well as a Master of Arts in Human Services Counseling and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction.

Transforming Resistance into Strategy | Qasarah Bey Spencer

Change efforts inevitably face resistance from the systems and people who fight to maintain the status quo. Resistance can deflate change agents and disrupt social justice movements. This session will guide participants through an exploration of the relationship between change and resistance; their perception of and response to opposition; and potential strategies to more effectively respond to opposition.

Facilitator:

Qasarah Bey Spencer serves in the intersection of macro social work practice and ministry to build connection, inclusion, and healing in educational and community contexts. Sparking growth and insight in others brings her joy. Qasarah has served with several non-profits in the areas of asset-based community development, community education in the areas of social justice and equity, and diversity and inclusion. A former private school administrator, she loves to support educators and their students. In her current role as assistant professor and program director for the Master of Social Work program in the VCU School of Social Work, Qasarah is honored to work with students and colleagues who are passionate about making a difference in the world. She is a two-time alumna of VCU, earning an MSW/MDiv (School of Theology at Virginia Union) and a doctorate in educational leadership from the VCU School of Education. Qasarah is a member of the 2006 cohort of the GEHLI Minority Political Leadership Institute. She has a love of learning. Qasarah enjoys reading, music, and watching animated series.

Lessons from 20th Century Social Movements in Virginia

The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities has worked to advance a more inclusive and successful Commonwealth since 1935. Over the past 90 years, Virginia has seen periods of great progress and also experienced significant challenge and resistance. The Closing Plenary at the 2025 Virginia Inclusion Summit will provide an opportunity to reflect on social movements over the past nine decades. Expert panelists will share historical context and analysis to help attendees learn about and apply lessons from past social movements. They will also explore links between the past and present, and consider ways to co-create a more inclusive future.

Panelists:

Dr. John C. Finn holds a Ph.D. in Geography from Arizona State University and is Associate Professor of Geography and Chair of the Department of Sociology, Social Work, and Anthropology at Christopher Newport University. His research brings together literatures on racial capitalism, critical landscape studies, and environmental justice to examine the enduring impacts of racial segregation in the United States. For the past six years, he has directed a mixed-methods project titled “Living Apart: Geography of Segregation in the 21st Century,” which combines oral history interviews, experimental photographic methods, and interactive mapping to trace how discriminatory 20th-century housing policies have produced—and continue to sustain—landscapes of profound racial, economic, environmental, and health inequality. Finn has published more than 50 articles, book chapters, reports, and op-eds; has secured over $250,000 in research funding; and has delivered more than 150 invited lectures across North America, Latin America, and Europe. He teaches courses in human geography, urban geography, human-environment interaction, field research methods, and Latin American studies.

Dr. Carmen Foster has over thirty-five years of professional experience working in local, state, and federal sectors and in private and public universities to offer deep insights into organizational leadership, team development, and facilitation as a seasoned guide and coach for senior executives, mid-level managers, and next-generation leaders. Her approach guides clients who seek authenticity, renewal, and courage to lead with purpose amidst transformation and change. Dr. Foster earned her doctorate in education from the University of Virginia. She also holds a bachelor’s degree in mass communications from VCU, a master’s degree in communication from Clarion University, a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard University and has served as a Harvard Administrative Fellow. As a W. K. Kellogg Foundation National Leadership Fellow, her travels have explored the nexus of leadership, spirituality, and healing for women and global communities of color. Trained as a public historian, she also holds a certificate in public theology from Union Presbyterian Seminary. She is an affiliate member of the International Federation of Coaching/Virginia Charter chapter.

Mr. Cainan Townsend is the executive director of the Robert Russa Moton Museum, where he leads efforts to advance its educational mission and community engagement. A Prince Edward County native and graduate of its public schools, Townsend began volunteering at Moton in 2014 and steadily rose through the ranks—becoming director of education in 2019, managing director in 2022, and executive director in 2023. He served as a 2016 Governor’s Fellow in the Virginia Secretary of Education’s office and was one of the first ever elected members to the school board in Prince Edward County history in 2017, winning a second term in 2023. His statewide service includes appointments to the African American Cultural Resources Task Force, Virginia Commission on African American History Education, and the VA250 African American Advisory Council. Townsend is the great-grandson of John Townsend plaintiff in Brown v. Board of Education. He holds degrees from Longwood University (B.S. 2015, M.S. 2020) and has received multiple honors, including the VDOE CTE Career All Stars (2024) and Longwood’s Outstanding Young Alumni Award (2025).

Moderator:

Dr. Veleka Gatling

The Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities strives to make the 2025 Virginia Inclusion Summit as accessible and inclusive as possible while acknowledging the existence of external barriers that may prevent 100% accessibility. VCIC leans into our core values of integrity and openness as we work to provide the most accessible experience for all, while welcoming feedback about what we can do better.

We commit to:

• Providing venue layout information to all registrants in advance of the Summit, including closest parking and accessible entrances.
• Arranging for ASL interpretation, Spanish language interpretation, CART, and/or large print programs if requested by August 8, 2025.
• Providing free masks and hand sanitizer throughout the meeting spaces.
• Working with the event venue to minimize scents and fragrances, and requesting the same of all attendees.
• Selecting a menu for the day that is inclusive of dietary restrictions, and clearly labeling all items served. A printed menu will also be made available at the Summit.
• Identifying a single stall bathroom option near the meeting spaces.

Please contact Haley at [email protected] or (804) 515-7950 to let us know if you have any access needs, comments, or questions. Advance notice will allow VCIC to seek out and offer more options.

Virginia Center for Inclusive Communities is recognized by SHRM to offer Professional Development Credits (PDC) for SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP® recertification activities.

The use of the official seal confirms that this Program has met HR Certification Institute’s (HRCI) criteria for re-certification credit pre-approval.

Details about HRCI and SHRM credits will be provided at the Summit.