Madison Region Economic Development and Diversity Summit

media release: Join us on Thursday, May 2, 2024, at the Monona Terrace (1 John Nolen Dr.) for the 11th Annual Madison Region Economic Development & Diversity Summit!

Be a part of this premier gathering of 400+ business executives, community leaders, economic development professionals, educators, elected officials, entrepreneurs, and emerging leaders.

This dynamic event will be filled with exceptional speakers and valuable information to help drive diversity, equity, and inclusion in our economy and workplaces.

Our heartfelt thanks go out to our longtime presenting sponsors for their unwavering support and commitment to making this event possible. Don’t miss out on this invaluable opportunity to learn, connect, and grow together.

We look forward to seeing you all on Thursday, May 2!

https://www.facebook.com/events/1058641875179640

Keynote speakers:

LeRoy Butler is a Pro Football Hall of Famer, Green Bay Packer Super Bowl Champion, and one of Wisconsin's most treasured favorite sons. As a team leader, social influencer, educational and business professional, or concerned constituent, LeRoy Butler has helped positively impact and move countless organizations forward.

Michele Thornton Ghee is a transformational leader who has generated over $1B in revenue while working for some of the most powerful media companies in the world including EBONY and Jet, EBONY Studios, WME, CNN, A&E, The History Channel, and BET Networks. While at BET, Michele created and ran the first and only network for Black women: BETHer.chieve on DE&I.

Event Schedule

8:00 AM Registration Opens

Registration, Continental Breakfast & Networking

8:30 AM Welcome & Opening Session

Business Owners of Color in Wisconsin: Representation, Profitability & Growth – Matt Kures

Opening Keynote Presentation – LeRoy Butler

10:35 AM BREAK

10:45 AM Morning Breakout Sessions

Choose from multiple engaging breakout sessions on topics ranging from AI to entrepreneurship.

12:00 PM BREAK

12:15 PM Lunch & Afternoon Plenary Session

Luncheon Keynote Presentation – Michelle Ghee, Business Transformation Visionary, Entrepreneur & former CEO of Ebony & Jet Magazine

1:30 PM Afternoon Breakout Sessions

Choose from multiple engaging breakout sessions on topics ranging from AI to entrepreneurship.