Rhode Island Diversity & Leadership Conference – RIDLC

About

The Rhode Island Diversity & Leadership Conference – RIDLC is a premier statewide initiative dedicated to advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and leadership development across industries. By bringing together business leaders, educators, policymakers, DEI advocates, and community changemakers, RIDLC fosters collaboration and strategic action to drive progress in workplace inclusion, leadership advancement, and social equity. With a focus on empowerment, representation, and policy impact, RIDLC provides the tools, knowledge, and networks needed to build a more inclusive and equitable Rhode Island.

Mission

To champion diversity, equity, and leadership development by equipping professionals, businesses, and communities with the strategies and resources to foster inclusive workplaces, equitable policies, and diverse leadership pipelines.

Vision

To create a more just and inclusive Rhode Island, where organizations and individuals work together to advance equity, celebrate diversity, and cultivate future leaders.

Training & Workshops

RIDLC offers specialized training programs designed to equip leaders, professionals, and organizations with the skills and knowledge to drive diversity, inclusion, and equity:

  • Inclusive Leadership Development – Equipping leaders with tools to foster diverse and equitable workplaces.
  • Unconscious Bias & Workplace Culture – Identifying and addressing biases that impact hiring, promotion, and team dynamics.
  • Equity in Education & Workforce Development – Advancing diversity in higher education, corporate leadership, and talent pipelines.
  • DEI Strategies for Business Success – Implementing diversity, equity, and inclusion as a competitive advantage.
  • Women in Leadership & Breaking Barriers – Empowering women in business, politics, and executive leadership.
  • On-Demand Diversity Training – Self-paced courses covering DEI best practices, policy trends, and leadership strategies.

These programs empower professionals, businesses, and community leaders to drive sustainable DEI change and foster equitable opportunities.

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Recognition

RIDLC honors outstanding contributions to diversity, equity, and leadership through prestigious awards recognizing inclusivity, advocacy, and empowerment:

  • Diversity & Inclusion Leader of the Year – Recognizing individuals advancing inclusive workplace policies and leadership initiatives.
  • Corporate DEI Champion Award – Honoring companies excelling in diversity recruitment, retention, and advancement.
  • Social Justice & Community Impact Award – Celebrating organizations making a meaningful difference in equity and social justice.
  • Women in Leadership Excellence Award – Acknowledging efforts to empower and elevate women in leadership roles.
  • Rising Star in DEI Award – Recognizing young professionals and emerging leaders making an impact in diversity, equity, and inclusion.

These awards celebrate leaders and organizations shaping Rhode Island’s future through equity, leadership, and advocacy.

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Schedule

The RIDLC Annual Summit features impactful keynotes, hands-on workshops, expert panels, and networking opportunities, culminating in an awards gala celebrating diversity and leadership excellence.

2025: September 15-19, 2025

  • Day 1: Keynote – “The Power of Inclusive Leadership in Today’s Workforce”
  • Day 2: Workshop – “Unconscious Bias & Systemic Change: Creating Equitable Workplaces”
  • Day 3: Panel – “Women & Minority Leadership: Breaking Barriers & Building Legacies”
  • Day 4: Networking Event – “Building Stronger DEI Partnerships Across Rhode Island”
  • Day 5: Awards Gala – Recognizing Excellence in Diversity & Leadership

2026: September 14-18, 2026

  • Day 1: Keynote – “Diversity as a Business Strategy: The Future of Inclusive Workplaces”
  • Day 2: Workshop – “DEI & Policy: Advancing Equity Through Legislation & Corporate Practices”
  • Day 3: Panel – “Leadership Development for Underrepresented Communities”
  • Day 4: Networking Event – “The Intersection of Business, Education & Social Equity”
  • Day 5: Awards Ceremony – Honoring Rhode Island’s Top DEI & Leadership Advocates

2027: September 13-17, 2027

  • Day 1: Keynote – “Equity & Empowerment: Shaping the Next Generation of Leaders”
  • Day 2: Workshop – “Advancing Supplier Diversity & Inclusive Economic Development”
  • Day 3: Panel – “Building DEI Programs That Drive Real Change”
  • Day 4: Networking Event – “Strengthening Rhode Island’s DEI & Leadership Networks”
  • Day 5: Awards Gala – Celebrating Rhode Island’s Leaders in Diversity & Inclusion
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