Celeste Thompson, SHRM-SCP, is a seasoned HR executive and chief people officer with 30 years of experience transforming organizations through strategic talent management, cultural engagement, and workforce optimization. With expertise spanning technology, nonprofits, and fashion, she has successfully led large-scale HR transformations, M&A integrations, and DEI initiatives that drive measurable impact. A trusted advisor to C-suite executives, Celeste specializes in aligning HR strategies with business objectives, enhancing leadership development, and implementing innovative HR technology solutions. Her global experience, spanning the U.K., Brazil, India, Australia, and the Asia-Pacific region, brings a unique perspective to workforce planning and organizational change. Passionate about fostering inclusive, high-performing cultures, Celeste is a sought-after thought leader and board member dedicated to shaping the future of human capital strategy.

Tracy Slaughter Holmes is a seasoned Training and Development Manager with over 30 years of experience driving workforce transformation and fostering inclusive organizational cultures. Renowned for her expertise in strategic planning, DEI initiatives, and leadership development, Tracy has consistently delivered innovative solutions that align talent development with business goals. Through her impactful career across industries such as oil and gas, healthcare, and energy, Tracy has spearheaded global training programs, enhanced operational efficiency, and mentored teams to achieve sustainable growth. Her dedication to excellence and community engagement continues to inspire meaningful change in both professional and civic arenas.

With over 13 years of experience, Bayley Simmons is a dynamic HR professional dedicated to helping businesses and nonprofits optimize their workplace culture and operations. As the Founder and Executive Consultant of Professionally Polished, LLC, she specializes in strategic HR planning, compliance, talent management, and employee engagement. Bayley’s tailored approach empowers leaders to streamline their HR processes, reduce turnover, and focus on achieving their core objectives. Her passion for fostering growth extends beyond her professional work, as seen in her volunteer leadership and mentoring efforts. Whether transforming HR systems or enhancing organizational culture, Bayley Simmons delivers actionable solutions for sustainable success.

Advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in healthcare is essential to creating a system that meets the diverse needs of patients, reduces health disparities, and enhances organizational performance. Leigh-Ann Durant emphasizes that fostering a culture of inclusion is not only a moral imperative but a strategic necessity for improving patient outcomes and workforce engagement. By implementing initiatives such as cultural competency training, diverse hiring practices, and patient-centered care models, healthcare organizations can better address the complexities of care delivery. As the industry evolves, embracing DEI principles will be instrumental in building a more equitable and innovative healthcare system that benefits all.

Betty Brano is a seasoned Project Manager and Certified Interior Designer with over 18 years of expertise in delivering high-impact projects across government, commercial, hospitality, and healthcare sectors. Her extensive experience spans interior design, space planning, sustainable material specification, and full-cycle project management, including budgeting, contractor coordination, and client relations. Known for her strategic approach, technical proficiency, and ability to manage complex projects, Betty has consistently delivered exceptional results while fostering strong client relationships and driving cost-saving initiatives. As a leader in the industry and Chairperson of the NYC Metro DEI Design-Build Subcommittee, she is committed to advancing inclusive practices and setting new standards of excellence in design and construction.

Excited to share the inspiring journey of Michelle King, a trailblazer in HR management and talent acquisition! As the VP, Global Talent Solutions Lead at Reinsurance Group of America, Michelle has spent over a decade leading global talent strategies, driving DEI initiatives, and fostering career development across 24 markets. Her extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence make her a standout leader in the industry. Read more about her remarkable career and contributions! 🌟 #Leadership #HR #TalentManagement #CareerDevelopment #DiversityEquityInclusion