Two Days of Diversity Panels Offered on Campus

The University of Arkansas Career Development Center and the Sam M. Walton College of Business Career Center will each offer programs focusing on diversity in the workplace on March 26 and 27.

On March 26, the Sam M. Walton College of Business Career Center will host “Diversity in the Workplace: A Panel Discussion of Industry Professionals” from 4 to 5 p.m. in the First Security Auditorium in Willard J. Walker Hall. Participants for the panel include Lisa Bogle, managing director of diversity for FedEx Freight and FedEx National LTL; Roseann Francesconi, human resource manager for USA Truck; and Isiah Reese, senior executive manager for the Walt Disney Co. All students from all majors are invited to learn about the importance of diversity in the workplace within corporate America and the global economy. This will be a panel discussion focusing on how American businesses continue to compete in a global economy.

The presenters will also provide various ways in which they recognize and value different perspectives and talents that are vital to an organization’s survival and growth. Business managers must embrace and comprehend the concept of workplace diversity and its benefits; therefore, this panel will discuss workplace diversity as a multifaceted concept that evolves as more industries move toward a global marketplace. Presenters will also discuss the globalization of business and how it is changing the face of the American workforce and emphasizing the importance of effective leadership in managing diversity in the workplace. Future managers will be expected to have a firm understanding of managing a diverse workforce to be effective in positioning organizations for future business opportunities. All are welcome to attend this panel presentation, and an RSVP is not required.

Prior to the presentation, a reception for the panelists will be held from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in the H.L. Hembree III Seminar Room in Walker Hall. All students are invited to attend this as well and mingle with the panelists before their discussion. To attend the reception, please RSVP no later than March 21 by contacting Jennifer Holland at jholland@walton.uark.edu.

The University of Arkansas Career Development Center will host another program at 2 p.m. March 27 in Arkansas Union 507 featuring facilitators from TARGET. Employment opportunities throughout the world require workers to be adept in various languages, aware of cultural differences, and enjoy working in a team environment. This program is intended to help students increase their knowledge of the meaning of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and to articulate the advantages and challenges of working in a diverse environment. Students will learn how “valuing diversity” is good for business and will be guided through a case study to assess their understanding of workplace diversity issues. To attend, students should complete and submit an application form at http://career.uark.edu/students/reg/2008/diversity_in_workplace.asp.