Vice Provost for Equity & Inclusion and Chief Diversity
Officer
Suite 4300 Ruthven Building
1109 Geddes Avenue
Ann Arbor, MI 48109-1079
Greetings Colleagues,
Welcome to the 43rd Women of Color Task Force (WCTF) Career Conference.
It is my pleasure to welcome you to one of the longest-running and largest staff development conferences at the University of Michigan. This conference continues the WCTF tradition of providing meaningful professional development through thought-provoking discussions and impactful workshops. I hope today’s sessions inspire new insights, connections and opportunities for growth.
This year’s theme, “Strength in Intersectionality: Women of Color Harnessing Our Lived Experiences for Collective Growth,” celebrates the depth and diversity of our experiences. It recognizes that the challenges we navigate not only shape us but also empower us to lead and thrive.
We are honored to have Felecia Hatcher, CEO of Pharrell Williams’ Black Ambition Opportunity Inc., as this year’s keynote speaker. An award-winning entrepreneur and author, Felecia is a champion of inclusive innovation, having invested in over 100 entrepreneurs who collectively raised more than $95 million. With a career spanning roles at Nintendo, Sony and the Minnesota Timberwolves, she has also advised top companies such as Google, Disney and Target. Her leadership continues to break barriers and create pathways for diverse talent to thrive.
New to the conference this year, The Savvy Sister Talks will highlight the voices of accomplished women of color through dynamic, fast-paced discussions and an engaging Q&A moderated by TT Gore. This session will feature Dr. Shalanda Baker, Vice Provost for Sustainability and Climate Action, alongside Shar Banks of TIAA and Erika Monaé Lewis, exploring topics such as sustainability, financial empowerment and entrepreneurship.
I extend my deepest gratitude to the Women of Color Task Force, especially the Executive Team, for their dedication in bringing this conference to life. I am also thankful for the schools, colleges, offices and organizations that support this event.
I hope you find today’s conference to be an enriching and fulfilling experience. Engage fully, connect deeply and take away knowledge that will empower you on your path forward.
Sincerely,
Tabbye M. Chavous, PhD
Vice Provost for Equity & Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer Professor of Education and Psychology
Agenda
7:00 AM -8:15 AM EST Check in and Registration, Michigan League
8:30 AM EST Welcome, Rackham Auditorium
8:30 AM EST Keynote Presentation A Conversation with Felecia Hatcher
9:45 AM EST Feature Presentation Savvy Sister Talks & Moderated Q&A
12:00 PM EST Networking Luncheon Michigan League, Second Floor
1:30 PM EST Break
1:45 PM EST Afternoon Breakout, Session A
3:00 PM EST Break
3:15 PM EST Afternoon Breakout, Session B
Afternoon Breakout, Session A 1:45 - 3:00 PM
A1 Will or Trust: What Do I Need? - Michigan League 3rd Floor, Room D
A2 Your Career: Good or Great? - Rackham 4th Floor, West Conference Room
A3 “This Is My Story!”: Remembering the “Why” of Your Choice to do DEI Work in a PWI - Rackham 4th Floor, Amphitheater
A4 Being an Ally: Moving From Chuck's and Pearls to True Allyship - Michigan League 3rd Floor, Koessler Room
A5 How to Network: Leading Yourself to Lead Others - Rackham 4th Floor, Assembly Hall
A6 What's in Your Personal Safety Kit? - Michigan League 3rd Floor, Henderson Room
A7 Understanding Your Investment Options – Getting on Track for Retirement - Rackham 4th Floor, East Conference Room
Afternoon Breakout, Session B 3:15 - 4:30 PM
B1 Do Something New - 50 Before 50 Challenge (Personal Goal Setting) - Michigan League 3rd Floor, Room D
B3 Toward Ending Hair Discrimination in the Workplace - Rackham 3rd Floor, Earl Lewis Classroom
B4 Getting a Head Start – A step-by-step overview of the University of Michigan retirement plans - Michigan League 3rd Floor, Koessler
B5 EQ Essentials: A Blueprint for Personal and Career Success - Rackham 4th Floor, East Conference Room
B6 The Power of Positive Self-Talk with Miss North America - Rackham 4th Floor, Amphitheater
B7 Maximizing Your 3 Currencies: Time, Energy, and Money - Rackham 4th Floor, West Conference Room
Felecia Hatcher
CEO of Pharrell Williams’BlackAmbition Opportunity Inc.
Felecia Hatcher is no stranger to pulling off the impossible by helping others live bold and uninterrupted lives.As the CEO of Pharrell Williams’ BlackAmbition Opportunity Inc., where she has invested in over 100 entrepreneurs that have raised more than 95 million dollars, she's an innovative powerhouse, personal transformation speaker, entrepreneur, and author.
Felecia’s corporate career in marketing led her to influential positions at the MinnesotaTimberwolves, Nintendo, Sony, and Mckee Foods.Today, Felecia’s work shapes how individuals show up, are valued, and financially benefit from playing full out in the innovation economy.
Companies like Google, Disney, Spotify, EY,Target, Samsung, and Etsy call on Felecia to help them empower their teams and shape their inclusive innovation strategies by stepping into their Zone of Genius. Hatcher has been featured in Forbes, NBCToday Show, MSNBC, Wall Street Journal, and White House Champion of Change Honoree.
The Savvy Sister Talks is an engaging and empowering session designed to highlight the voices of accomplished women of color who have excelled in their respective fields. This fast-paced, dynamic segment features short, impactful talks from inspiring leaders, followed by a Q&Asession with moderator TT Gore.
Our distinguished panelists - Dr. Shalanda Baker, Shar Banks, and Erika Monaé Lewis - will share their personal journeys, professional insights, and strategies for navigating careers as women of color.Topics will explore themes such as sustainability and climate justice, financial empowerment, and entrepreneurial success.
This session offers attendees a unique opportunity to learn from trailblazing women, gain practical advice, and engage in a meaningful dialogue about career advancement, leadership, and overcoming systemic challenges. By amplifying diverse perspectives, the Savvy Sister Talks aims to inspire and equip participants with the confidence and knowledge to harness their own lived experiences for professional growth.
Win a 1:1 Session!
Scan the QR code to enter for a chance to get 1-on-1 time with one of our speakers!
Afternoon Breakout Session A
1:45 - 3:00 PM ET
A1. Will or Trust: What Do I Need?
Terrence Quinn, Esq
Attorney, founder, and President
The TGQ Law Firm
Leadership Development
The "Will or Trust: What Do I Need?" workshop provides a clear, straightforward guide to help attendees understand the differences between wills and trusts. Presented by an experienced estate planning attorney, this workshop covers key topics such as the advantages of each option, how they impact your assets and loved ones, and which choice may be best for your unique situation.
Attendees will leave with practical insights on estate planning tools, empowering them to make informed decisions about securing their legacy and ensuring their wishes are honored. Perfect for individuals of all ages and stages of life.
Michigan League, Room D, 3rd Floor
A2. Your Career: Good or Great?
Mark Saine, Managing Director, TIAA Institute
Career Growth
Ready to take your career from merely good to undeniably great? In this workshop you'll discover practical strategies to elevate your professional journey. Engage in dynamic discussions and hands-on activities designed to elevate your professional trajectory. Whether you're at a crossroads or seeking that next big leap, this workshop will equip you with actionable insights, tools, and the confidence to push beyond the good and reach for greatness. Why settle for good when greatness is within reach? Step up, embrace the challenge, and transform your career!
Rackham West, 4th Floor
A3. “This Is My Story!”: Remembering the “Why” of your choice to do DEI work in a PWI
Patricia Coleman-Burns, PhD, Assistant Professor Emerita of Nursing and affiliated faculty in DAAS, Department of Afro and Afro-American Studies and NA, University of Michigan
Nichole Burnside, Managing Director
University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center
Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging
In this interactive workshop, participants will begin crafting their personal "Origin Story," a powerful narrative tool for navigating challenges and amplifying their voice in the face of FEAR (False Evidence Appearing as Real). Using the Nichole Burnside Model (2021) of reflective questioning, we will explore the unique stories of individuals of color across campus and examine the transformative impact of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) on their work.
Together, we’ll address profound questions such as: What difference has DEI made in your journey? To what do you want to belong? and How can you sustain your efforts amid prevailing challenges?
Leave the session with a strong foundation for your story, a deeper sense of belonging, and strategies for resilience in the current climate.
Rackham Amphitheater, 4th Floor
Afternoon Breakout Session A
1:45 - 3:00 PM ET
A4. Being an Ally: Moving From Chuck's and Pearls to True Allyship
Deborah Orlowski, Founder & CEO
Dahlia Keynotes and Workshops
Diversity. Equity & Inclusion, Professional Development
Marches, yard signs, blue bracelets, rainbow flags, social media mems and bumper stickers. The signs of allyship are all around. Or are they? This highly interactive and personal workshop will explore what it means to be an ally; the benefits and costs of allyship; and the skills needed to be an ally. Come prepared to share your experiences and vision of true allyship.
Michigan League, Koessler, 3rd Floor
A6. What's in your personal safety kit?
Candace Dorsey
Empowerment Self Defense Program Manager
DPSS, University of Michigan
Health and Wellness
This workshop is designed to teach participants situational awareness, trusting instincts and prevention skills. The goal is to leave participants better equipped to deal with situations that become uncomfortable, harassment, confrontation to potentially violent situations.
Participants will take part in verbal exercises, de escalation tactics, physical movement drills and safety discussions. The physical techniques are realistic self-defense tactics that focus on risk reduction and avoidance while progressing on to basic hands-on training. Participants will better understand how to access a situation, a person and the environment. This assessment can assist individuals with making independent choices when deciding safety options.
Michigan League, Henderson, 3rd Floor
A5. How to Network: Leading Yourself to Lead Others
Klementina (Tina) Sula, Lecturer
University of Michigan
Leadership Development
It’s not good enough to be good at what you do. You also have to be good at accessing opportunities that will enable you to do the work you do best and the work that is meaningful to you. That’s where networking comes in. Networking is the “how to” of leadership, enabling you to connect and build relationships with others who have the opportunities that you seek. And networking can happen anywhere.
Cultivating a networking mindset is a strategic advantage at work and in life. After all, life is a relationship business and the world is our work. Success in today’s complex, dynamic, and unpredictable world depends on our ability to cultivate, nurture and activate relationships—it depends on our ability to network.
Those who don’t network – and don’t network strategically – miss out on big opportunities to have the impact they want to have professionally or personally. And for the planet.
Rackham Assembly Hall, 4th Floor
A7. Understanding your investment options –getting on track for retirement
Chris Burgess, Senior Financial Consultant TIAA
Financial Wellness
Have you considered whether you’re saving enough for the retirement you envisioned? Do you know how much income you may need in retirement? Join TIAA to learn more about the importance of planning ahead for retirement and tools available to stay on track.
Rackham East, 4th Floor
Afternoon Breakout Session B
3:15 - 4:30 PM ET
B1. Do Something New - 50 Before 50 Challenge (Personal Goal Setting)
Lisa Lipscomb-Jones
Educator / CEO, Something New
Detroit Public Schools Community District
Career Growth, Professional Development
This personal goal setting workshop is an inspiring, interactive session designed for professional women who desire to set 50 personal goals before age 50. Participants will be empowered to begin their list so that they can take bold steps toward meaningful experiences, skills, and adventures. through engaging exercises, participants will outline actionable goals, build a roadmap, and gain the confidence to pursue dreams they may have previously set aside. Whether it's learning something new, exploring new places, or embracing a passion, this workshop offers a powerful space to redefine life now! Build a bridge to fulfillment today!
Michigan League, Room D, 3rd Floor
B3. Toward Ending Hair Discrimination in the Workplace
Kierra Trotter
Director of Alumni Career and Education
Alumni Association, University of Michigan
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
People of African ancestry often face discrimination due to their natural hair or protective hairstyles. This workshop will equip participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to identify and eliminate hair bias and discrimination in workplace practices and interactions.
Rackham, Earl Lewis, 3rd Floor
B2. Positive Impact: Giving and Receiving Feedback Effectively
Rebekah Ashley JD
Senior Administrative Director for Executive Administration, University of Michigan
Kelli Szczepanski, Change Manager, University of Michigan Leadership Development
Join us for an interactive workshop designed to bolster your communication skills, enhancing your confidence in both giving and receiving feedback. During this session, we will explore practical strategies for conducting productive conversations about performance and other important topics. Our goal is to improve interpersonal communication and empower participants to speak up confidently and constructively.
Rackham Assembly Hall, 4th Floor
B4. Getting a Head Start – A step-by-step overview of the University of Michigan retirement plans
Need a refresher on your retirement benefits? Explore the ins and outs of your University of Michigan retirement benefits.
Michigan League, Koessler, 3rd Floor
Afternoon Breakout Session B
1:45 - 3:00 PM ET
B5. EQ Essentials: A Blueprint for Personal and Career Success
Tish Wade-Gallon, Owner/CEO of TLC Life Plans
Tyess Wade, Product Manager
Personal Development
Emotional intelligence (EQ) is the cornerstone of strong relationships and professional success. By mastering your emotions and understanding those of others, you can foster deeper connections and unlock your full potential.
In this engaging workshop, you'll:
● Discover the role EQ plays in leadership, teamwork, and well-being,
● Gain insights into your emotional strengths and growth areas; and,
● Learn effective strategies for managing your emotions and maintaining composure in high-pressure situations. Equip yourself with the essential skills to build stronger relationships, resolve conflicts with ease, and achieve your career goals. Join us and unlock the power of emotional intelligence.
Rackham East, 4th Floor
B7. Maximizing Your 3 Currencies: Time, Energy, and Money
Darla Bishop
Author, How to Afford Everything
FinanSis, LLC
Personal Development
In this interactive workshop, Dr. Darla Bishop will guide participants in leveraging their lived experiences to reclaim control over their most valuable resources: time, energy, and money. With practical exercises and collaborative discussions, attendees will discover how to harness their unique strengths to reduce overwhelm and thrive professionally and personally. By the end, participants will have a clear, personalized action plan to align their resources with their goals, empowering them to build a fulfilling career and life.
Rackham East, 4th Floor
B6. The Power of Positive Self-Talk with Miss North America
Miss North America 2024, Kyla Wright
Ph.D. Student
Michigan State University
Personal Development
This interactive workshop empowers businesswomen to harness the transformative power of positive self-talk. Through practical exercises, you’ll learn how to replace self-doubt with confidence, build resilience during challenges, and develop a success-driven mindset. Craft personalized affirmations and discover strategies to maintain a positive inner dialogue in high-pressure environments. Leave equipped with tools to boost your confidence, enhance emotional well-being, and elevate your professional presence. Perfect for women striving to lead with strength, authenticity, and grace in the business world.
Rackham Amphitheater, 4th Floor
March7,2025
Greetings WCTF Conference Attendees,
Welcome to the 43rd Annual Women of Color Task Force Career Conference!
This year’s theme, “Strength in Intersectionality: Women of Color Harnessing Our Lived Experiences for Collective Growth,” celebrates the power of our diverse identities and lived experiences. Our intersecting identities are not obstacles but sources of resilience, leadership, and innovation that drive both personal and collective success.
For over 44 years, through resilience, determination, and persistence, the Women of Color Task Force has served as a beacon of support and safe space for women of color staff at the University of Michigan, providing professional opportunities, advocating for inclusion and equity, and supporting the University's mission and values. As WCTF celebrates over forty years of progress we pay homage to the bold vision of our founders Mrs. Beulah Sanders (U-M School of Education) and Mrs. Jennie Partee (U-M Affirmative Action Office), who in 1979 saw a need to address the barriers to career advancement that women of color faced in their efforts to realize their full professional potential. From their vision grew the WCTF Project which provides career development opportunities for U-M employees at every level of our campus community. These staff development efforts have contributed to the professional and administrative success of staff at all three U-M campuses.
This conference would not be possible without the dedication of the Conference Planning Committee, our incredible speakers, and the generous support of our sponsors, including the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, University Human Resources, School of Dentistry, Horace H. Rackham School of Graduate Studies, School of Information, School of Nursing, College of Pharmacy, School of Public Health, Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy, School for Environment and Sustainability, and our corporate sponsor, TIAA. Their contributions ensure that WCTF remains a vital resource for professional development and empowerment.
To our returning attendees, thank you for your continued support. To those joining us for the first time, we are thrilled to welcome you. Engage, connect, and take full advantage of this space created for you. Your experiences and voices matter, and together, we are building a future where all can thrive.
With gratitude and solidarity, The Women of Color Task Force Executive Team
Presenters
years of leadership experience across campus and Michigan Medicine, she is an accomplished executive coach and facilitator dedicated to helping high-performingleadersreachtheirfullpotential.
Bekah holds a degree in communications and has experience practicing law, allowing her to blend facilitation and advocacy skills with her passion for personal development. She has led individuals and teams through complex transformational changes and excels in coaching leaders at all levels on strategicthinking,emotionalintelligence,andsustainableleadership.Shehas also worked with teams and athletes to enhance communication, resilience, andon-court/fieldleadership.
Described by clients as an insightful, empathetic, and results-oriented coach, Bekah adeptly navigates the intricacies of team dynamics. Outside of work, she is an avid reader, a dedicated supporter of local high school, collegiate, andprofessionalathletics,andenjoysmentoringyoungprofessionals.
Dr Shalanda H. Baker is the University of Michigan’s first vice provost for sustainability and climate action. She joined the university after serving as the Director of the Office of Energy Justice and Equity at the U.S. Department of Energy.Priortoherappointment,shewasaProfessorofLaw,PublicPolicyand Urban Affairs at Northeastern University. She was the co-founder and co-director of the Initiative for Energy Justice, which provides technical law andpolicysupporttocommunitiesonthefrontlinesofclimatechange.Baker served as an Air Force officer prior to her honorable discharge pursuant to the then existing “Don't Ask, Don't Tell” policy, and became a vocal advocate for repealofthepolicy.SheearnedaBSinPoliticalSciencefromtheU.S.AirForce Academy,aJDfromNortheasternUniversity,andanLLMfromtheUniversityof Wisconsin.
Presenters
Shar Banks is a Wealth Management Advisor at TIAA (tiaa.org), a Fortune 100 financial services organization and leading provider of asset managementandretirementservicesfortheacademic, research,medical andculturalfields.
In her role as a Wealth Management Advisor at TIAA, Shar is focused on helping participants plan for their financial well-being and retirement readiness. She meets with employees one-on-one and provides personalized counseling, education and advice, including specific asset allocation and fund selection recommendations based on the plan’s investmentoptions.
Shar began her financial services career in 2001 and has been with TIAA since 2016. She serves our institutional clients throughout the country fromthelocalAnnArborTIAAoffice.
SharholdsaBachelorofArtsinFinancefromGrandValleyState University as well as a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Northwood University.SheholdsFINRASeries7and63registrationswhilemaintaining Life, Health and Variable Annuity licenses from the State of Michigan. Additionally, Shar has obtained the Certified Financial Planner (CFP ®), Chartered Retirement Planning Counselor (CRPC®) and Chartered FinancialConsultant (ChFC®)designations
Dr. Darla Bishop is a dynamic speaker, financial educator, and public health professional committed to helping women reclaim their time, energy, and money for greater success. With a DrPH in Health Policy from George Washington University and over a decade of experience in leadership, Dr. Bishop empowers her audiences with actionable strategies toachievetheirprofessionalandpersonalgoals.
AsthecreatorofthetrademarkedPaycheckPlaybookandauthorofHowto Afford Everything, Dr. Bishop has helped thousands break free from financial overwhelm. Her engaging, interactive style ensures participants leavehersessionswithpracticaltoolstheycanimplementimmediately.
Stay connected with Dr. Bishop after the conference by visiting www.darlabishop.comorfollowingheronsocialmedia@my_finansis.
Special appreciation to Brendan Kirwin, Assistant Director of Marketing and Communication in OAMI for designing the cover. Thank you!
Presenters
Christine Burgess is a Senior Financial Consultant at TIAA, a Fortune 100 financial services organization and leading provider of asset management and retirement services for the academic, research, medical and cultural fields. Christine has over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry with a consistent track record of developing client and advisor relationships through various market conditions utilizing a variety of investment vehicles. Chris received a Bachelor of Business Administration fromNorthwoodUniversity,withamajorinManagementandEconomics.
Jessica Burmeister is a Wealth Management Advisor at TIAA (tiaa.org), a Fortune 100 financial services organization and leading provider of asset management and retirement services for the academic, research, medical andculturalfields.
In her role, Jessica focuses on providing comprehensive, needs-based personalized advice. She creates a plan that helps her clients pursue their financial goals and she is committed to ensuring that plan continues working for them as their life progresses, priorities change and markets shift. Throughout the planning process she keeps in mind important objectivessuchas:
● Receivingenoughretirementincometolastalifetime
● Properly balancing their portfolio, including specific asset allocation and fund selection recommendations using an advice methodology from an independent third-party based on the plan’s investment options
● Developing strategies to address taxes, inflation and future medical expenses
Jessica began her financial services career in 2006 and has been with TIAA since 2012. She serves our wealth management clients in the State of Michigan from the local Ann Arbor TIAA office. Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Finance from Central Michigan University and a Master of Business Administration from Eastern Michigan University. She holds FINRA Series 7, 63 and 65 registrations while maintaining Life, Health and Variable Annuity licenses from the States of Michigan,OhioandFlorida.
Nichole Burnside, M.B.A., is the Managing Director of the University of Michigan Injury Prevention Center and has been a part of the university since 2001. As Managing Director, in her role, she is responsible for managing the Center's activities, communications, and programs. Ms. Burnside brings extensive experience in strategic leadership, research management,andcommunity-engagedresearch.
Presenters
affiliated faculty in DAAS. PCB began her career in the 70s studying Black &BlackWomen’ssocialmovements.AppointedbyformerDeanoftheUM School of Nursing Rhetaugh Dumas in 1991 as director of the Office of Minority Affairs; and trended renaming administrative centers as “Offices ofMulticulturalAffairs”.ShefoundedtheGENESISProjects,creating“peer facilitated study groups” and residential boot camps for the recruitment and retention of persons from economically and educationally disadvantaged populations into nursing. After receiving her BA at Wayne State University in 1969, she worked for Motown Records in Detroit in public relations before resuming studies that culminated in her MA (1976) and PhD (1987)degrees in communication and rhetorical criticism at WayneStateUniversity.
A long-time advocate for the right of all persons, and specifically women and their children, to be free from gender oppression, age discrimination, sexism,racism,anddomesticviolence,shehasservedasaboardmember and officers for several organizations including the Women’s Justice Center in Detroit and, the Washtenaw County SafeHouse Center. Dr. Coleman-Burns’ scholarship focuses on intersecting identities across safe policing, social justice, health equity, multiple social determinants of health, and health promotion and disease prevention. Her research and science center on community impact and access of citizens to evidence-based knowledge and skills. She conducts workshops on anti-racismandanti-Blacknessnarrativesandschemas;microaggressions across intra-personal, interpersonal, institutional and cultural domains; and “accomplices and co-conspirator” interventions. She collectively developed the EPIC Model of Giving and Receiving Feedback for empoweringpeopletoself-advocateintheprocessofobtainingskillsand competenciesinchallengingdialogues.
Candace Dorsey is originally from Detroit and retired as a Police Officer after 31 years of service. Their law enforcement career included roles with the Detroit Police Department’s 9th Precinct and Eastern Michigan University Police Department. Throughout their career, they served as a Bicycle Officer, Special Victims Unit team member, Self-Defense Instructor,andRegionalDirectorforRADSystems.Additionally,theywere anAdjunctLectureratEasternMichiganUniversityandanActiveAttacker Instructor. They earned both a Bachelor’s degree in 2004 and a Master’s degreein2006fromEasternMichiganUniversity.
Currently, [Name] serves as the Empowerment Self-Defense Program Manager for the University of Michigan Division of Public Safety and Security (UM-DPSS). As a member of the department’s Community Engagement Team, they present safety workshops alongside colleagues, including Run, Hide, Fight, Workplace Safety, and De-Escalation. Their primary responsibility is delivering the Self-Defense program to the universitycommunity.
Presenters
TT Gore is a multifaceted professional, weaving a tapestry of healing and inspiration. A graduate of the University of Michigan School of Social Work, she is a clinical therapist, holistic life coach, accomplished author, and a captivating motivational speaker, with a profound focus on empowering women of color on their healing journey through, with, and in love. She works to motivate women to confront their past, embrace theirpresent,andenvisionabrighterfuturefilledwithpossibilities.
Herunwaveringdedicationtotheirwell-being,combinedwithherdiverse skill set, makes her a true healing warrior. With steadfast commitment passionate intentionality, and genuine empathy, she is a transformative force, empowering countless women to rewrite their stories and discover the resilience within. In a world where healing is both personal and collective, TT Gore stands as a beacon of strength and support, specializing in being a guide on the side and sometimes the sage on the stage.
Inherpersonallife,sheisawife,mother,aunt,sister,daughter,andfriend who lives passionately and loves deeply. As a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., a community-conscious action-oriented organization, TT works to leave a legacy of love wherever her feet tread. Her motto is simple:"WhetherIhaveyouforfiveminutesorfiftyyears,myjobistolove youbecauselovehealsallthings."Learnmoreathttps://www.ttgore.com/
Lisa Lipscomb, is the founder of Something New, a community-based platform empowering individuals to pursue their passion, purpose, and a life they love through the power of goal-setting. She has been called The Bucketlist Maven and is the author of the Amazon best-seller, “Do Something New: 7 Steps to Recharting Your Path & Creating a Life You Love”, which inspires readers to intentionally transform their days from mundane to magnificent. Lisa also developed an online travel course, equipping travel lovers to explore the world confidently, whether travellingsolooringroups.
With over 28 years of teaching experience, Lisa helps clients build a bridge to a life they love through the power of planning, tapping into childhood dreams, and self-care practices. She completed and now facilitatestheDoSomethingNew-50Before50Challenge(PersonalGoal Setting), which encourages adventure lovers to complete 50 new experiences by age 50 and beyond. This process fosters personal growth, courageousaction,andsatisfactionbysharingpracticalstrategiestohelp participantstakeboldfulfillingsteps,incommunity.
Through her work, she’s helped countless clients and friends remember that we all need something to look forward to, and personalization matters because one size does not fit all. She is on a mission to remind others that it’s a great day to do something new and create a fulfilling, adventurouslife.
Presenters
in HR, leadership coaching, and strategic networking. As the Founder & CEOofTheErikaMonaéGroup(EMG),acoachingandconsultingpractice that supports individuals, entrepreneurs, and corporations in aligning theirstrengths,articulatingtheirvalue,and leveragingtheirrelationships to elevate their careers or businesses. At EMG, Erika Monaé is breaking down barriers of “who you know” by closing the networking gap and providing access to the networks, resources, and opportunities essential for growth and advancement. A Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach with over15yearsinHumanResourcesandOrganizationalDevelopment,Erika Monaé is committed to helping clients access the resources needed to thrive.
HerentrepreneurialventuresextendtoSimplySweeties,anonlinebakery with a mission to preserve the joy of classic sweets while supporting individuals re-entering society through career development and employment opportunities. Additionally, she is the tech founder of My Career Nav, a career GPS platform guiding professionals toward fulfilling, uncompromising lives; and the creator of Networking on Purpose, a unique networking experience blending philanthropy and authentic connection. A dedicated community leader, Erika Monaé also serves on the Board of Directors for the Southeastern Michigan Health Association, Co-Chair of Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan’s Emerging Leaders Advisory Board, and Professional Development Chair for the MichiganStateOrganizationofZetaPhiBeta Sorority,Inc.
Driven by a vision to redefine how professionals and entrepreneurs navigate leadership, Erika Monaé empowers her clients to develop executiveinfluence,strategicallynetwork,andcreatelastingimpact.Erika Monaébelieves,"Work-lifebalancedoesnotexistasyouonlygetonelife
Presenters
Deborah Orlowski, PhD founded Dahlia Keynotes and Workshops after retiring from the University of Michigan where she served as an UHR Senior Learning Specialist. Her passion is helping others create an environment where intercultural, diverse relationships develop and flourish. Dr. Orlowski has served in several leadership roles including developmental lead for the U-M Leading Change Practicum; and on the national level, as past chair of the Society for Intercultural Education, Training and Research (SIETAR) annual (international) conference; locally she serves as the Vice President of the Board of Vincent York's Jazzistry. SheholdsaMasterofPublicAdministrationandaPh.D.inTransformative Learning.
Terrence G. Quinn is a highly accomplished attorney with over two decades of expertise in Estate Planning and Elder Law. Recognized as a Top 10 Attorney in Michigan for Estate Planning and one of the Top 100 Attorneys in Michigan by the National Black Lawyers, Terrence currently chairs the Real Property Trusts and Estates Section of the National Bar Association,activelyshapingthelegallandscape.Terrence'sdedicationto upholdingthehighestlegalstandardsisevidentthroughhispastroleon the Character and Fitness Committee of the State Bar of Michigan. He has also served on the Executive Committee for Michigan's Institute for Continuing Legal Education for multiple years, most recently serving as chair. A sought-after speaker, he shares his extensive knowledge with legal professionals nationwide, reflecting his commitment to advancing thelegalprofession.
MarkSaine istheManagingDirectorofStrategicLeadershipSolutionsat TIAA. Mark supports TIAA's clients by helping them to build leaders internally that are prepared to take on increasingly complex roles and to manage the demands of a rapidly changing environment. He provides leadership development services including workshops, retreats, consultationandcoaching.
Meet with a TIAA Consultant to Start Your Financial Planning
Inclusion, diversity and equity are integral to who TIAA is as a company and are at the core of how they serve the financial needs of those who serve others. At TIAA, treating everyone with respect and dignity is not just nice to have. It’s a must. If you’d like to meet with a local TIAA financial consultant for a personalized meeting, schedule today!
Presenters
Klementina (Tina) Sula teaches networking to students in the Program in International and Comparative Studies at the University of Michigan. She helps students articulate and activate their life's purpose to achieve their goals and aspirations. She is also a philanthropic advisor and fundraiser at the Jewish Federation of Detroit. She helps donors find meaning in their life through their giving by connecting them to opportunitiestomakeadifference.
She has also worked at Henry Ford Health, leading fundraising efforts at Henry Ford West Bloomfield Hospital, and at the University of Michigan’s College of LSA, where she spearheaded the College Connections Programs as well as the International Giving and Engagement Program. OtherexperiencesincludeworkingfortheUSEmbassyinKhyiv,Ukraine, the United States Mission to the United Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, theClubdeMadridinMadrid,Spain,andfortheU.S.StateDepartmentin Washington,D.C.
SheholdsaB.A.inPoliticalScience,aMasterofPublicPolicydegree,and a M.A. in Higher Education – all from the University of Michigan. She has also completed year-long fellowships in health equity and digital health. She has also received executive training on innovation and leadership fromINSEADBusinessSchoolinFrance.
Recently, working with the University of Michigan’s Center for Academic Innovation, she launched a free online course on Coursera called How to Network: Leading Yourself to Lead Others to make the content she sharesinherresidentialcourseavailabletoaglobalaudience.
Tina serves on the board of various non-profits and is an advisor to two healthcare startups. She is married to a physician and has two young children. She enjoys traveling, good food, reading non-fiction & leadership books, and spending time getting to know people’s stories (overtea!).
Kierra Trotter has held key leadership roles in student life and academic affairs at Big Ten institutions, including the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. With a dynamic 15-year career in higher education, she has been instrumental in advancing U-M’s ambitious student-facing visions for equity and belonging across career services, living-learningprograms,andacademicadvising.
Currently, Kierra serves as the Director of Alumni Career and Education for the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan, where she is dedicated to facilitating innovative lifelong learning and professional developmentopportunitiesforU-Malumni.
Presenters
resilience, passion, and advocacy. Holding a B.A. in Journalism from Hampton University and an M.A. in Magazine, Newspaper, and Online Journalism from Syracuse University, she is also a mental health advocate and the founder of Operation S.A.S.H.: Sexual Assault Stops Here, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting survivors, demanding accountability, andendingsecrecyaroundsexualassault.
In July 2024, Kyla achieved her biggest milestone yet: being crowned Miss NorthAmerica2024,inOrlando,Florida;afterrepresentingherhomestate as Miss Michigan. Her journey reflects determination, perseverance, and a commitment to turning pain into purpose. Kyla uses her platform to educate and empower individuals across North America through initiativesineducation,community,mentorship,andadvocacy.
Kyla’s advocacy work began in 2016 while at Hampton University, where shehostedawarenesseventsandroundtables,servedasapeercounselor, and earned her mental health first aid certification. She has since spoken on Capitol Hill, at schools, and community events, sharing her experiences withsexualassault,PTSD,anddepression.
Currently pursuing her Ph.D. at Michigan State University, Kyla balances her studies with appearances, volunteerism, and community impact. Whether serving as a parade Grand Marshal, hosting holiday adopt-a-family events, or serving as a motivational speaker, she remains committedtoupliftinghercommunity.
Kyla’s initiatives include giving workshops on mental health, advocating for survivors, and celebrating authentic self-expression. Her reign as Miss North America inspires others to embrace resilience, grit, and purpose—turningtrialsintotriumphs.
Tye Wade, a seasoned Product Manager with a major airline, is a creative advisor driving digital transformation. She has spearheaded the modernization of critical systems, replacing outdated infrastructure with innovative solutions. Tye's expertise in crisis management is invaluable, as she consistently collaborates with vendors to establish unified, reliable communicationchannelsduringnaturaldisasters.
With a Master of Science in Cybercrime from the University of South Florida, Tyebringsastrongtechnicalfoundationtoherrole.Beyondherprofessional achievements, she is passionate about using technology to empower individualswithspecialneeds.Tye'sresearchfocusesonthepotentialofAIto revolutionize education and the transformative impact of technology on autisticlearners.
Presenters
Dr. Tish Wade-Gallon is a dynamic speaker and seasoned leader with a proven track record of empowering individuals and organizations. As the Owner/CEO of TLC Life Plans, she leverages her expertise in team dynamics, DEI,andsoftskillstodriveimpactfulsolutions.
With a passion for facilitating growth and development, Tish has spoken to diverse audiences in the U.S. and internationally, most recently in Valencia, Spain,Florida,andCalifornia.Herengagingpresentationscombineinsightful contentwithpracticalstrategies.
Recognizedforhercontributionstoeducationandleadership,Tishhasbeen honoredbyTheRoucheLeagueofInnovationinEducationandTheNational Institute for Staff and Organizational Development. She holds advanced degrees in Organizational Management and Education, and is workforce certified in DISC facilitation, Lean Six Sigma (Yellow Belt), and Instructional DesignfromtheUniversityofGeorgia.
When she's not inspiring others or designing solutions through consulting, Tish enjoys traveling the world, with South Africa and Switzerland being two of her favorite places. Not to neglect the beauty of the US, Tish recently achieved her goal of visiting all 50 U.S. states. She is a dedicated wife and mother,whoisactivelyinvolvedinheralumniandsororitycommunities.
About WCTF
The Women of Color Task Force (WCTF) is a University of Michigan staff organization, founded in 1979, that provides professional development, networking, mentoring and career training opportunities for University of Michigan employees, with a focus on addressing the needs of women of color staff.
For more than 40 years, WCTF has served as a support network and a forum for the exchange of information about the status of women of color staff at the University of Michigan.
For additional information about joining WCTF or participating in its staff development events, please contact the WCTF Program Coordinator, Robin Pankey, via email at WCTF-faqs@umich.edu.
2025 CAREER CONFERENCE PLANNING COMMITTEE
LaurenDavis Director of Diversity, Equity and Community, SEAS
MikaliaDennis Program Manager, Office of the Provost/Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
AjaGore Associate Director for optiMize, LSA
BrandyeHill Administrative Assistant Senior, Emergency Medicine Research
YamHoonLim Senior Program Manager, Internal Medicine/Nephrology
YvonnaOlds Research Administrator Senior, College of Engineering
KimberlyOtto End User Computing Associate, HITS
RobinPankey Program Coordinator, Women of Color Task Force
JaniceReuben Associate Director for University Relations, Alumni Association
KatherineWeathers Assistant Director of LSA Scholarships
GraceWu Managing Director, The Taubman Institute
WCTF Leadership
Zarinah Aquil Office of the Provost
LaTonya Berryhill, Michigan Institute for Clinical and Health Research
Patricia Coleman-Burns, PhD School of Nursing
Ellen Copeland Michigan Medicine Vice President, WCTF
Shante Galloway School of Dentistry Interim WCTF President, WCTF Treasurer
Mary Jo Gray School of Dentistry
Monica Hickson Information & Technology Services
Marlanna Landeros Adolescent Health Initiative
Robin Pankey Office of the Provost/ODEI WCTF Project Coordinator
Janice S. Reuben Alumni Association
Linda Hart Michigan Medicine Radiology
Doreen Tinajero LSA Center for Social Solutions
Katherine Weathers LSA Scholarships
Sandy Zalmout ICPSR Secretary, WCTF
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
WCTF extends special thanks to TIAA, our Gold Level Corporate Sponsor, for its generous support of the 2025 Women of Color Task Force Conference.
The 43rd Annual WCTF Career Conference is organized in partnership with the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (ODEI) and the following schools, colleges, and units who demonstrate their strong commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion and staff development through their support of this conference:
Silver Level Sponsors
With Additional Support From U-M Taubman Institute
SPECIAL THANKS
WTCF appreciates the support of our conference attendees, presenters, and volunteers. Your participation ensures the success of this event. We also acknowledge our U-M and community sponsors for their special contributions tothecareerconferenceandourotherprofessionaldevelopmentactivities.
