3:00 pm Registration Opens and Exhibitor Hall Launch

Start the event by networking with exhibitors. Check in at the registration table to receive your badge, notebook, pen, HOPEFUL Bumper Sticker, and two surprise snacks.

• Venue Map: Available at the Registration Table or click here

• Check-in at the Registration Table in the Lobby

• Exhibitor Hall Launch in the Casco Bay Exhibit Hall

• Networking in the Grand Ballroom and 2nd Floor Function Rooms

Menu:

• Assorted Fresh Baked Cookies

• Chocolate Fudge Brownies

• Truffle Mac and Cheese Tarts

• Jalapeno Poppers

• Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail

• Freshly Brewed Regular and Decaf Coffee, and Tea

• Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Bottled Water, and Iced Tea.

4:00 pm Opening Ceremony - Proactive Workplace Inclusion

Proactively create opportunities within existing workplace programs— such as performance management, employee policies, and training initiatives — to improve inclusion in the workplace and counter potential division among employees. Utilize a collection of strategies to integrate inclusion into everyday practices. By aligning inclusion with core employee programs, companies can cultivate a culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to contribute to an inclusive workplace.

Strategies will differ based on the employer size. Develop strategies for your workplace. Focus areas are listed below:

• Understanding of Inclusion

• Hiring Diverse Talent

• Individual’s Role in Workplace Inclusion

• Performance Management, Benefits, and Incentives  

Speaker: David Romero - Director, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Wipfli

Location: Grand Ballroom

4:30 pm Masterclass - Every Workplace a Refuge

What role do employers, non-profits, municipalities, and educational and healthcare partners play in the ecosystem of welcoming and integrating people from diverse backgrounds in Maine? How can we welcome people with cultural humility and humanize the refugee resettlement process through telling their stories? Stories include what hosting/supporting people from diverse backgrounds has done for workforce development and communities in the US.

• Welcome people from diverse backgrounds as integral members of the Maine community.

• Learn about how to value people from diverse backgrounds’ skills, passion, and knowledge authentically. 

• Meet the diverse needs of community members from immigrant, refugee, or asylum seeker backgrounds, especially around gender, LGBTQIA, age/elders. 

• Focusing on refugee resettlement offers benefits for the entire state and employers, enriching the community and workforce.

Speakers: 

Dr. Diya Abdo - Lincoln Financial Professor of English at Guilford College and Director of Every Campus A Refuge

Kate Drabecki - Senior Associate at Fragomen

Lindsey Lopes - Director of Human Resources at Milestone Funeral Partners

Location: Grand Ballroom

5:30 pm Healthcare Leaders Summit on Talent 

Healthcare Institutions are facing a workforce emergency. This Summit is about how key healthcare institutions in Maine can meet their workforce needs and attract talent to their open positions.

We will discuss racial diversity and LGBTQ+ communities being a significant source of future talent. How we can focus on workplace inclusion to keep talent in Maine and attract more people? We will also discuss Workforce Development Cohorts, Internships, creating attractive and inclusive Employment Opportunities, dialogue on Organizational Action, utilizing internships, apprenticeships, and other workforce development programs. How to recruit for larger departments and locations as well as smaller more rural locations? 

Launch an industry partnership with key training partners to attract talent, provide training, and hire candidates into employment opportunities in an accelerated manner. 

Speakers:

Marwa Hassanien, MS, M.Ed. - Associate Vice President, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at  Northern Light Health

Monique Roy - Vice President - Learning, Culture and Workforce Development at Central Maine Healthcare

Melissa McManus - Director of Workforce Development at MaineHealth

Location: Grand Ballroom

6:00 pm Talent Reception

Networking event for professionals from diverse backgrounds to meet employers in Maine. Professionals are looking to grow their professional network and potentially find an employment opportunity. The Talent Reception is sponsored by Unity Environmental University.

Performance by “VIVA The Sensation” - Viva L'Ouverture in the Grand Ballroom sponsored by UNUM.

Menu:

• Tomato Bruschetta Crostini (veg)

• BBQ Chorizo Meatballs

• Jalapeno Poppers

• Caribbean Jerk Chicken Skewer (gf)

• Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale, Bottled Water, and Iced Tea.

Location: Grand Ballroom, 2nd Floor Function Room, and Casco Bay Exhibit Hall - G3 Level

Wednesday, August 13th - Community and Workplace Inclusion

8:00 am Registration Opens 

Check-in at the registration table to receive your badge, event pin, and a curated gift bag filled with a notebook, pen, and surprise snack.

Menu: 

• Assorted Bagels with Butter and Cream Cheese (veg)

• Freshly Brewed Regular and Decaf Coffee, and Tea

• Finger Sandwiches

• Assorted Muffins

8:30 am Movie Screening: Ali Lewiston and the Phantom Punch

The film "Ali, Lewiston, and the Phantom Punch" is about the journey of former Lewiston resident and artist Charlie Hewitt as he raises a statue of Muhammad Ali at the site of the original fight. The film will not only delve into the events of the fight on May 25, 1965, but will also explore personal memories, civic and cultural identity, and the inevitable changes that come with time.

There will be a special screening of the movie at the Conference. 

Speaker: Gary Robinov, The Director of Ali Lewiston and the Phantom Punch

Location: Grand Ballroom

9:00 am Keynote: Meeting Exponential Demand - Transformation in a Small and Rural Town in Maine 

Keynote sponsored by MEMIC

Join us for a keynote delivered by Dr. Melik Peter Khoury, President and CEO of Unity Environmental University, as he talks about the extraordinary transformation into America’s Environmental University. How did Unity Environmental University transform into a vibrant institution that addresses the workforce needs of Maine? Dr. Khoury will discuss the challenges, strategies, and cultural shifts essential for fostering rapid growth and sustainable change across Maine, especially in a small-town environment.

• Building the foundation for organizational transformation and growth.

• Navigating cultural shifts to foster innovation and inclusivity.

• The unique experience of being a racially diverse CEO in Maine and leading a transformative institution.

• Overcoming ongoing challenges while sustaining success.

• Actionable strategies businesses can learn from Unity Environmental University to scale rapidly and meet workforce demands.

Introducing Speaker: Michael Bourque - President and CEO at MEMIC

Speaker:  Dr. Melik Peter Khoury, President & Chief Executive Officer at Unity Environment University

Location: Grand Ballroom

10:00 am State Leaders Panel: Foundations for Employers to Attract Diverse Talent?

Join a panel of state leaders and industry experts as they explore actionable strategies for Maine employers to attract, develop, and retain diverse talent. This discussion will highlight the critical role of leadership in fostering inclusion and building workplaces where individuals can authentically thrive.

• Promoting diverse talent into executive roles.

• Creating workplaces where people from all backgrounds belong, feel valued, and part of the Maine community.

• Leveraging employment opportunities, investments, and purchases to attract and retain diverse talent in Maine.

• Offering career development opportunities such as education, certifications, and pathways for advancement.

• Integrating inclusion metrics into performance management, compensation strategies, and employee benefits to drive equity.

• Developing diverse leaders for board and executive positions to reflect the values of inclusion and representation.

Moderator: Julia Trujillo Luengo, Director, Strategic Planning Management at the Maine Community College System

Speakers:   

• Katie Brown, PhD, Founder & Chief Education Officer (CEO) at EnGen

• Mufalo Chitam, Executive Director at Maine Immigrants' Rights Coalition

• Ayesha Hall, Director of Strategic Partnerships at the Maine Department of Education

• Marpheen Chann, Executive Director at Khmer Maine

• Tarlan Ahmadov, Director, Division of Programs at the Maine Department of Labor

Location: Grand Ballroom

11:30 am Coaching Session: Developing a Strategy for Equity and Inclusion

This session is designed for organizational leaders responsible for advancing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within their companies. At times, you may be the sole leader responsible for improving DEI. This process can be challenging. Learn from experienced DEI consultants about how to establish or accelerate DEI efforts, find allies, and how to craft a strategy specific to their organization’s unique needs and culture.

The session will cover:

• Identifying areas for improvement in current DEI efforts and setting actionable goals.

• Building learning cohorts and mentorship programs to foster inclusion and development.

• Exploring the role of “organizational disrupters” – leaders who champion equity and drive transformational change.

• Practical tools for aligning DEI initiatives with business objectives and measuring impact over time.

Moderator: David Romero - Director, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Wipfli

Speakers:   

• Dustin Ward, Racial Equity And Reconciliation Advocate at It Is Time...LLC

• Kari Heistad, CEO at Culture Coach International and Top Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer Power List 2023

• Tae Chong

Location: Grand Ballroom

12:00 pm Lunch

Menu: Mediterranean Buffet

• Greek Salad

• Cous-Cous w/Veggies

• Briam

• Halal Greek Lemon Chicken Breast

• Falafel w/Tzatziki Sauce w/ cold tomato wedges, sliced cucumber, pickle red onion, olives.

• Mediterranean Shrimp

• Lentil Soup

• Warm Pita Bread or Rolls

• Baklava

• Lemonade or Iced Tea

1:00 pm Upskill Workforce:  Launching a Training Partnership

This session offers a practical look at building partnerships to address workforce needs across the state for businesses and industries. The discussion will explore innovative strategies for creating accessible, flexible workforce training programs that meet the needs of Maine’s employers and employees.

Key topics include:

• Ease of Collaboration: The process of developing training partnerships for organizations of all sizes.

• Remote Work Opportunities: Insights on adapting to the increasing demand for remote work and integrating it into workforce strategies.

• Inclusive Workforce Development: Featuring perspectives from a New Mainers representative, learn how training programs can address the unique challenges and opportunities for Maine’s immigrant and refugee communities.

• This session will highlight how workforce partnerships can drive economic growth, foster inclusivity, and ensure Maine’s workforce is equipped for the future.
  Location: Grand Ballroom

2:00 pm Exhibitors Hall 

Menu:

• Desserts

• Maine Wicked Whoopie Pies

• Assorted Novelty Ice Cream Bars

• Freshly Brewed Regular and Decaf Coffee, and Tea

Location: Casco Bay Exhibit Hall - G3 Level

5:00 pm End of day

8:00 am Registration Opens

Check-in at the registration table to receive your badge, event pin, and a curated gift bag filled with a notebook, pen, and surprise snack.

Menu:

• Assorted Bagels with Butter and Cream Cheese (veg)

• Freshly Brewed Regular and Decaf Coffee, and Tea

• Finger Sandwiches

• Assorted Breakfast Pastries

9:00 am Morning Breakout sessions 

Breakout Session #1: LGBTQ+ Workplace Inclusion: Summit on Personal Freedoms and Successfully Transitioning in an Inclusive Organization

In this session, participants will identify key disparities that exist across multiple systems for members of the LGBTQIA+ community and will explore some of the essential leadership competencies required for organizations to better serve and support this community.  Participants will learn the core skills necessary to create more inclusive and affirming environments for LGBTQIA+ clients and customers, as well as for LGBTQIA+ staff members employed by the organization, and develop action plans for next steps in elevating their own leadership skills in this area. 

Speakers:

Chris McLaughlin, Owner & Lead Consultant at Inspired Consulting Group

Gia Drew, Executive Director at EqualityMaine

Michele Weinzetl, Senior Manager at BerryDunn

Location: Connecticut Room/Rhode Island Room

Breakout Session #2: Unlocking Untapped Talent: The Case for Hiring People with Disabilities, Deaf, Non-apparent Disabilities, and Hard of Hearing Individuals in Maine’s Workforce.

Maine’s workforce is facing challenges in addressing labor shortages. By actively recruiting and retaining People with Disabilities, Deaf, and HoH individuals businesses can tap into an underutilized talent pool that contributes innovation, adaptability, and increased workplace diversity.

• Learn how to effectively support employees and applicants with disabilities.

• Increased Innovation and Problem-Solving: Deaf and HoH individuals often bring creative solutions and fresh approaches to communication, fostering innovation in teams.

• Neurodiversity: Understanding Disability & HumanNeeds Accommodations.

• Enhanced Communication Awareness: Teams that include Deaf and HoH individuals tend to become more mindful and skilled at inclusive communication practices, benefitting overall workplace culture.

• Commitment and Retention: Research shows that Deaf and HoH individuals often exhibit high job satisfaction, loyalty, and dedication when provided with an accessible work environment.

• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion: Hiring Deaf and HoH individuals aligns with corporate diversity and inclusion goals, fostering a more equitable workplace that mirrors the diverse community of Maine.

Moderator: Dr. Idella Glenn - VP for Equity, Inclusion and Community Impact at the University of Southern Maine

Speakers:

Georges Budagu Makoko, Founder of Ladder to the Moon Network and Residential Director at Serenity Residential Care

Misty Marston, VP of Residential and Educational Services at Spurwink

Don Dufour Senior Director of Human Resources at Spurwink

Location: Vermont Room

Breakout Session #3: Employee Benefits and Mental Health - Addressing the Holistic Needs of Individuals: health and wellness 

Business leaders must recognize the link between employee benefits, mental health, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Employee benefits reflect an organization's DEI commitment, with well-structured retirement plans essential for attracting a diverse workforce. Significant gaps in retirement savings exist across racial and gender lines. Data from the National Institute on Retirement Security reveals significant gaps in retirement savings across racial and gender lines. This gap underscores the need for retirement plans that are accessible, equitable, and inclusive.  This session offers insights on designing benefits that promote DEI and address disparities while supporting mental health and wellness. Key points include:

• Equitable Benefits Design: Linking inclusive benefits to workplace DEI.

• Retirement Plans and connection to the organizational DEI Strategy: Importance of equitable retirement plans for workforce diversity.

• Addressing Savings Gaps: Strategies to close racial and gender disparities in retirement savings.

• Mental Health and Wellness: Comprehensive benefits that support employees' holistic needs.

Speakers:

Nate Moody, Retirement Plan Advisor, Partner at Lebel & Harriman Retirement Advisors

Nathan Davis, Director of Programs at Gateway Community Services Maine (GCSM)

Maya Srinivasan,  President & Owner at Great Northern Builders

Molly Louison-Semrow, Associate Director at Pine Tree

Kerem Durdag, Chief Executive Officer at GWI

Location: New Hampshire Room/Massachusetts Room

Activity Option #1: Networking Rooms

Location: 2nd Floor Function Rooms

Activity Option #2: Exhibitors Hall

Location: Casco Bay Exhibit Hall - G3 Level

10:30 am Mid-Morning Breakout Sessions 

Breakout Session #1: Outreach and Recruitment Best Practices to Diverse Communities

Discover effective strategies for diversifying your workforce and building meaningful connections with underrepresented communities. This session offers practical insights into outreach and recruitment best practices tailored to BIPOC talent, immigrant communities, LGBTQ+ individuals, first-generation college students, and migrant workers.

• Engaging Diverse Talent: Proven techniques for connecting with BIPOC communities, immigrant talent, and LGBTQ+ individuals in meaningful and culturally sensitive ways.

• Supporting First-Generation College Students: Crafting recruitment strategies that empower these students to transition successfully into professional roles, recognizing their unique strengths and challenges.

• Fostering Inclusivity for Migrant Workers: Understanding the distinct hurdles faced by migrant workers and creating equitable hiring practices to address their needs.

• Building Partnerships for Success: Collaborating with community organizations and local agencies to create pipelines for diverse talent.

Moderator: Barb Stoddard - Statewide Senior Program Coordinator at New Mainers Resource Center

Speakers:

Jacqueline Mugwaneza - Multicultural Relations Lead at Maine Immigrants Rights Coalition

Reza Jalali - DEI Consultant at Inclusion Maine

David Delmar Sentíes - Lead Consultant for "Pathways into Software Engineering" at Maine Immigrants Rights Coalition

Miyabi “Abbie” Yamamoto, Ph.D. - Executive Director at Portland Adult Education

Angela Okafor, MBA, Esq. - Assistant Public Defender at Maine Commission on Public Defense Services

Location: Connecticut Room/Rhode Island Room

Breakout Session #2: Equity-Focused Workforce Partnerships

Internships and apprenticeships are powerful workforce development tools that address systemic barriers, foster equity, and develop talent for Maine’s future. This session explores the Equity in Internships Program (EQUIP), a targeted initiative supporting first-generation students and the Maine Apprenticeship Program, which opens pathways for individuals from all backgrounds to gain in-demand skills through hands-on learning.

• Internships for Equity: Understand how EQUIP supports first-generation students in gaining professional skills, experience, and confidence, leveling the playing field for workforce entry.

• Apprenticeships for Broad Talent Development: Explore how apprenticeship programs create learning opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds, addressing labor shortages while promoting inclusivity.

• Collaborative Success: Learn how partnerships between educational institutions, employers, and workforce organizations drive impactful outcomes for participants and industries.

• Actionable Implementation: Leave with concrete strategies to launch or improve internship and apprenticeship programs that cater to both targeted and broader talent pools.

Moderator: Andy Osheroff, PhD, MBA,  Director, Career & Employment Hub at the University of  Southern Maine

Speakers: 

Joan Dolan, Director of Apprenticeship & Strategic Partnerships at Maine Department of Labor

Patrick Woodcock, President & CEO at Maine State Chamber of Commerce

Fatuma Hussein

University of Southern Maine Student

Location: Vermont Room

Breakout Session #3: Municipal Government Community Forum – How can a Housing Project attract diverse communities to a small or large community?

Explore how municipal governments, chambers of commerce, and local organizations can collaborate to create economic opportunities and advance housing initiatives by attracting and integrating diverse communities. By focusing on inclusive representation, cultural understanding, and housing access, this forum provides actionable strategies to strengthen Maine’s rural towns and urban centers alike.

Participants will also learn about the 2024 Natural Helpers Fellowship, an initiative empowering community leaders to address systemic inequalities, connect marginalized groups to vital resources, and foster belonging throughout Portland and beyond.

• Launching a Housing Development Initiative: Developing affordable, accessible, and community-oriented housing options.

• Attracting Diverse Populations: Strategies to draw BIPOC individuals and families to Maine’s rural and urban communities through targeted outreach and support programs.

• Building Inclusive Communities: Training and policies to ensure the safety and inclusion of people from diverse cultural backgrounds.

• Fostering Economic Growth: Leveraging diversity to drive economic development and enrich Maine’s communities.

Moderator: Nasir Shir - DEI Consultant at Inclusion Maine

Speakers:

Molly Hilligoss - Network Director at Welcoming America

Dan Brennan - Director at MaineHousing

Charlene Holmes - Chief Equity and Diversity Officer at Tompkins County Administration

Claude Rwaganje - Executive Director at ProsperityME: The Center for Financial Education

Location: New Hampshire Room/Massachusetts Room

There 

Activity Option #1: Networking Rooms

Location: 2nd Floor Function Rooms

Activity Option #2: Exhibitors Hall

Location: Casco Bay Exhibit Hall - G3 Level

12:00 pm Lunch

Menu: Southwest Buffet

• Cheese Enchiladas with Green Chilies in Flour Tortillas 

• Choice of Proteins: 

  • Margarita Chicken (gf) 

  • Oat-based Chorizo (v)(gf)(veg) 

• Fajita Style Peppers and Onions (v)(gf)(veg) 

• Roasted Corn and Avocado Salad (v)(gf)(veg) 

• Cilantro Lime Rice (veg) 

• Cornbread (veg)

1:00 pm Afternoon Breakout Sessions

Breakout Session #1: Best Practices for Workforce Development for Immigrant/Refugee Teens

Join us for a session that delves into strategies to support first-generation employees, particularly immigrant and refugee teens, as they embark on their career exploration journeys. Tailored for educators, employers, and mentors, this session focuses on culturally relevant practices to guide young individuals from start to finish in their employment experiences. 

• Talent Pipeline: Discover how to effectively present opportunities to young people from immigrant or refugee backgrounds. 

• Work Eligibility and Documentation: Ensure that young individuals possess the required documents and comprehend their work eligibility. 

• Application Process: Simplify job applications, offering guidance on follow-ups, interview preparation, and understanding hiring paperwork. 

• Culturally Relevant Job Matches: Identify suitable roles for students with limited English proficiency and adapt resources to address their unique needs. 

• Workplace Readiness: Clarify pay stubs, workplace expectations, and the concept of “professionalism” in a manner that resonates with cultural norms and community values. 

• Soft Skills Development: Teach essential skills such as communication, problem-solving, decision-making, and reliability. 

Moderator: Kate Howell, Director, Workforce Partnerships at Educate Maine

Speakers:

Pious Ali, City Councilor at City of Portland

Delvina Miremadi-Baldino, Executive Director at Maine Youth Thriving

Location: Connecticut Room/Rhode Island Room

Breakout Session #2: Executive Career Planning for Women Leaders – Building Pathways to C-suite Roles

This session is designed to empower women with actionable strategies and resources to navigate the journey toward executive leadership roles. Whether currently in management or aspiring to reach C-suite positions, participants will explore tools and techniques for advancing their careers with confidence and purpose.

• Executive Career Planning: Develop personalized, strategic plans to achieve leadership aspirations and break through barriers to advancement.

• Refining Leadership Communication: Strengthen skills for clear, impactful communication essential for high-level decision-making.

• Navigating Negotiations and Conflict: Master techniques for effective negotiation and conflict resolution in leadership contexts.

• Skill-Building for Advancement: Learn critical leadership competencies, including decision-making, team management, and organizational vision.

• Leadership in Action: Explore real-world scenarios and strategies for thriving in executive roles across diverse industries.

Speakers:

Ellen Miller - CEO at MPowered, LLC

Elinor Higgins - Executive Director at the Maine Permanent Commission on the Status of Women

Location: Vermont Room

Breakout Session #3: The Maine Paid Family and Medical Leave Act (PFML) -  Implementation Update

In 2023, the State of Maine signed a historic budget that includes the creation of a paid family and medical leave program, making Maine the 13th state to establish one. Beginning in 2026, eligible workers in the private and public sector will have up to 12 weeks of paid time off available to care for a family member with a serious health condition, to bond with a child after birth, fostering or adoption, to care for their own medical needs, to deal with the transition of a family member’s impending military deployment or to stay safe after abuse or violence. Join us in learning about the implementation of the PFML program and answer all of the important questions asked by employers and participants. 

• What does the Employer need to do? Legally, financially, and sa

Speaker:

Safiya Khalid, Policy & Outreach Specialist at Maine Department of Labor

Location: New Hampshire Room/Massachusetts Room

Activity Option #1: Networking Rooms

Location: 2nd Floor Function Rooms

Activity Option #2: Exhibitors Hall

Location: Casco Bay Exhibit Hall - G3 Level

2:30 pm Closing Ceremony 

Conclude the day with an engaging session focused on reimagining the hiring process to prioritize equity and inclusion. This closing ceremony will highlight practical strategies for building diverse talent pipelines, eliminating screening bias, and fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

• Redrawing the Hiring Process: Rethink traditional hiring practices to attract and retain diverse talent.

• Equity-Driven Policy Updates: Review personnel policies and procedures through an equity lens to ensure inclusivity.

• Targeted Training for Inclusion: Implement effective training programs to support equitable hiring practices.

• Setting DEI Goals: Establish actionable, time-based goals to drive accountability and progress in diversity initiatives.

Speaker:

Randy Martinez

Location: Grand Ballroom

3:00 pm End of day