The last two years we’ve organized this event to include expert panelists that provide strategies and insights on launching and leading LGBTQ+ Employee Resource Groups. These ERG-leader panelists primarily came from the design and construction industry. This year, we’re taking it to the next level by introducing ERG leaders from industries outside our universe, like those from finance or tech. These industries tend to have larger firms with more tenured ERGs, so we’re excited to learn about their best practices and triumphs they’ve learned along the way, and hear how we can apply them to our own firms. These panelists will share upcoming initiatives and goals that haven’t reached our sector yet, so you won’t want to miss this discussion. Whether you’re an ERG leader, member or supporter, this discussion will leave you with new ideas and a renewed motivation to propel your company’s ERG into its next iteration.
Register to Join Us
This event will be taking place at the Knoll Showroom, with drinks and light bites included. We also will broadcast the event virtually via Zoom Webinar for anyone unable to attend in person. Please be sure to select the right ticket type!
About Our Panelists
Charles Edward Harrison, III (he/him)
Senior Communications Strategist Lead, Wells Fargo
Charles focuses on shaping comprehensive and diverse segments communications strategies, helping to oversee Wells Fargo's diverse segments communications work and identifying cross-segment opportunities. In his role, he coordinates across Communications & Public Affairs, and helps to connect internal partners and key stakeholders to enhance employee engagement and help to rebuild corporate reputation. Charles joined Wells Fargo in 2022 and serves as the the Senior Communications Strategist Lead for their Diverse Segments, Representation & Inclusion (DSRI) group in New York City.
Jay Hamilton (they/them)
Associate Vice President of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Ares Management
Jay brings nearly a decade of experience in learning and development, employee resource group engagement, and diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) training and workshops. They've worked in both the private sector at multiple firms in the financial sector, as well as volunteered with not-for-profits like the American Civil Liberties Union on the Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging team. Jay currently serves as the Associate Vice President of DEI at Ares Management.
Mike Bufano (he/him)
Program Manager, Google
Mike is the PRIDE at Google lead for New York City. He works to bolster trust and safety in open source communities, and is active as a leader within Google's LGBTQ+ community, advocating for gender equity in the workplace. Mike has worked at Google in New York City since 2013 and is currently a Program Manager within Google's Open Source Programs Office.
About Our Moderator
Chi Chi Truong
Senior Civil Engineer, ARUP
Chi Chi has always had a strong passion for diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In his role as Co-Chair of ConnectOut, Arup's LGBTQ+ employee resource group, and as an East Coast Representative for ASPIRE, Arup's Asian/Pacific Islander employee resource group, he actively advocates and furthers conversations centered on DEI. Chi Chi joined Arup in 2021 as a Senior Civil Engineer, where he focuses on stormwater management, sustainable site design, and climate risk mitigation projects.
Thank You To Our Hosts
A special thank you to our hosts, MillerKnoll, for welcoming us into your Showroom.