HIA-LI invites Long Island’s business community to its Annual Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Program, “Celebrating Excellence in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion,” on Thursday, December 5, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. The event will take place at People’s Arc of Suffolk, formerly AHRC Suffolk, located at 2900 Veterans Memorial Highway in Bohemia.

The program will feature opening remarks by John McGuigan, CEO of People’s Arc of Suffolk, who will address the importance of DEI initiatives to support all individuals, especially those with developmental disabilities. “When businesses embrace DEI, they foster inclusive communities that value the unique abilities and perspectives of everyone,” said McGuigan. “At People’s Arc of Suffolk, we remain dedicated to providing employment opportunities, education programs, advocacy, and community engagement for people across the entire spectrum.”

The event’s panel discussion, moderated by Linda Johnson, Lead Specialist, Talent Acquisition at PSEG Long Island, will explore how organizations can embed DEI practices into their corporate culture. Panelists include:

• Luis Vazquez, President and CEO, Long Island Hispanic Chamber of Commerce
• Robert Vitelli, CEO, LGBT Network
• Dan Lloyd, Founder and President, Minority Millennials, Inc.

“DEI is not just about doing what’s right; it’s a strategic imperative that drives innovation, enhances workplace culture, and fosters business growth,” said Terri Alessi-Miceli, President and CEO of HIA-LI, in underscoring the significance of this annual event. “This program brings together thought leaders to share actionable insights that inspire real change.”

“This DEI program is a platform to celebrate diversity while encouraging businesses to develop inclusive practices,” said Carol A. Allen, President and CEO of Peoples Alliance Federal Credit Union and HIA-LI Board Chair, highlighting the need for collaboration. “Our speakers reflect the broad range of DEI constituencies and offer practical strategies for advancing equity across Long Island.”

Tickets for the program are $65 for HIA-LI members and $80 for non-members. Pre-registration is encouraged to avoid the $5 walk-in fee.

To register, sponsor, or exhibit, go to: http://tiny.cc/DEI-HIA-LI or call (631) 543-5355.

This event is made possible with the generous support from the following sponsors: Bob Giglione Photography, Eagle Business Solutions, Long Island Cares, Mark Grossman Public Relations, PSEG Long Island, and Suffolk County Community College.

ABOUT HIA-LI

Now in its 46th year, HIA-LI is one of Long Island’s largest business advocacy organizations. It also represents the Long Island Innovation Park at Hauppauge, the largest industrial park in the Northeast. The park supports 55,000 jobs, produces $13 billion in goods and services each year, and accounts for eight percent of Long Island’s gross domestic product. For more information, go to www.HIA-LI.org.