M/W/DBE Event: Rising from Partner to Prime
On Tuesday, April 9th, the WTS EDI Committee hosted the W/M/DBE Event: Rising from Partner to Prime, bringing together W/M/DBE organizations and Agencies. Our keynote speaker, Kristin Del Rossi, Streets Commissioner, kicked off the event with an overview of the City’s focus on equitable growth in our region.
She was followed by two Panels, “Elevating Equitable Opportunities” and “Contract Chronicles: Stories from Diverse Partners”. The first panel was moderated by Iola Harper, MA, Senior Executive Vice President, The Enterprise Center, and consisted of Api Appulingam, PE, AAE, Chief Development Officer, PHL; LaShawnda Tompkins, MBA, Deputy Commissioner of Administration, City of Philadelphia; and Vanessa Doan, CPA, Director of Finance, DVRPC. The panelists provided insight on the importance of elevating M/W/DBEs in our region and the support available for these companies. The second panel was moderated by Lily Reynolds, AICP, Director of Federal Infrastructure Strategy, City of Philadelphia, and consisted of Rose Bougher, President, AD Marble; Kelly Freeman, R.A., VP and Registered Architect, Sowinski Sullivan; and Will Bowie, President & CEO, Empower Construction. These panelists are all leaders of M/W/DBE organizations, and they provided inspirational advice and insight to help these organizations grow.
The program concluded with a speed networking segment. M/W/DBE organizations were paired with agencies where they could make quick connections with the intent of leading to long term connections. This event exemplified the dedication of our industry and our region’s esteemed leaders towards fostering equitable growth. Thank you to all who participated and thank you to the Enterprise Center for hosting the event.
Check out photos here!