Bloomingdale Chamber hosts workshop on diversity in workforce

To celebrate Black History Month, the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce is offering a workshop to explore the concepts of diversity, equity and belonging in the workforce.

Sonia Watson, Ph.D. candidate, College of DuPage Interim Assistant Dean, Adjunct Faculty Support, will discuss how to empower employees to more comfortably engage and talk about issues of diversity.

"From the Inside-Out: Leading Conversations with Employees About Diversity, Equity and the Sense of Belonging" will be held virtually from noon to 1 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 23.

"This workshop will explore the concepts of diversity, equity and belonging and the effects that unconscious bias can have on employee retention," Watson said. "These complex issues lend themselves to increase discussion and dialogue. However, for conversations to lead to understanding and change, the importance of equitable language must be recognized."

A discussion will follow with real-world examples including possible steps we can take to create more equitable environments allowing for employees the opportunity to succeed.

"In my short conversation with Sonia, I became aware the difference between using the words inclusion and belonging. We should be using belonging as it is more welcoming and understanding. Inclusion makes it sound like your including someone to meet a requirement. Would you rather be included in the group, or felt you belonged in the group?," said Cindy Allston, president and CEO of the Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce. "I'm excited to offer this conversation starter to our community."

The workshop is open to the public, but there are discount registration fees for chamber members. Other chambers joining Bloomingdale are: Westmont, Bolingbrook, Addison, Orland Park, and Chamber 630. To learn more and to register go to www.BloomingdaleChamber.com under Events. If successful, future programs will be scheduled.

Sonia Watson received her Master's Degree in Leadership Studies from North Central College and is currently a doctoral candidate studying organizational development at Benedictine University. An educator for more than 20 years, Watson has extensive experience as a training and development leader whose accomplishments demonstrate strategic leadership, efficient management, and effective decision-making. She also understands how to motivate, lead, develop meaningful relationships, and create synergistic environments. She not only has a passion for helping people reach their academic, professional, and personal goals, she is also committed to fostering an environment that supports diversity, equity, inclusion and a sense of belonging. Watson leads efforts to ensure the success of College of DuPage students, faculty, staff and community members, guiding the institution's mission of creating a lifelong learning environment for its diverse community.

The Bloomingdale Chamber of Commerce supports the success and growth of businesses and the community. Membership is open to any business who wants to invest in their own growth through promoting their business through marketing, sponsorships and building relationships. The chamber offers a variety of free and fee based events making it possible for members to get involved and be known.