On July 26, 2018, approximately 90 individuals from across the state of New Hampshire gathered at the offices of Eversource in Manchester to begin a statewide discussion on diversity and inclusion.  

NH is facing a serious economic problem that requires navigating across the government, business, and nonprofit sectors.  Working together toward a common purpose is why this group was brought together.

Panel presenters included:

• Rogers Johnson, President of Seacoast NAACP and Chair of the Governor’s Council on Diversity and Inclusion
  
• Loretta Brady, Chair, Manchester Chamber Joint Task Force and Founder, Organizational Consultant at BDS Insight
  
• Tye Graham, Eastern Bank, SVP Director HR Business Partnership, Talent Acquisition, Diversity & Inclusion
  

The attendees broke out into small groups to brainstorm  about state-wide approaches needed to support diversity and inclusion, how to engage business leaders, and to identify business challenges and gaps.  Will Arvelo, Division of Economic Development Business and Economic Affairs for the State of NH, led the discussion.

Will Arvelo, Division of Economic Development Business and Economic Affairs for the State of NH, takes to the podium to open the discussion.

Tina M. Sharby is president of the Board of Directors for the Diversity Workforce Coalition.