Our December lunch featured a panel discussion on how thoughtful DEI initiatives can generate meaningful change, positively impact your brand, create a more engaged and productive workforce, and earn deeper trust from your team and the community. The panelists shared how they have been personally and professionally affected by racial inequities in the workplace, efforts they are leading at their own companies, the future of DEI and the ongoing need for businesses to do better. The panelists were:
Jeremiah Chapman, co-founder & CEO of Fresh Fry LLC. A Louisville native, he has been recognized by Forbes Magazine’s 30 Under 30 and holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in chemical engineering from the University of Louisville.
Aaron Jordan, CEO and founder of the Black Complex and Recording Arts and Sciences Bootcamp (RASB), as well as an activist and advocate for community empowerment. He is a graduate of the historically Black Tennessee State University, with a bachelor’s degree in integrated marketing communications.
Lecresha Sewell, CEO and founder of Melanated Healthcare LLC. She is a doctorally prepared women’s health nurse practitioner who is passionate about eliminating health disparities and improving health outcomes for all.
The panel was moderated by Kayla Meisner, licensing and new ventures manager for Kentucky Commercialization Ventures (KCV) and Venture Connectors board member. At KCV, she is dedicated to the commercialization of technologies from partner universities and colleges that moves great ideas and research to products on the market for public benefit. She holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in bioengineering and biomedical engineering from the University of Louisville.
