By Sheryl Estrada
Prominent female leaders in the technology and digital industries will share their insight at Spelman College’s 11th Annual Leadership and Women of Color Conference.
The conference, which will take place May 13 and 14 at the Georgia International Convention Center in Atlanta, will explore the theme “New School Leaders in the Digital Era.”
“The digital era has begun, and with that, technology is thoroughly integrated into our everyday lives,” said Jane Smith, Ed.D., C’68, Executive Director of Leadership and Civic Engagement at Spelman. “As a result, discussing technology’s relevance is an important and necessary conversation for today’s leaders because of its impact in multiple areas of professional and personal development.”
Currently, the fields of science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) are being championed in academia to better produce qualified candidates, especially females, for high-tech jobs. Globally, it has been a challenge for many tech companies to find and retain women.
“During the conference, we’ll examine the effects of technology and digital culture as it relates to leadership on a global level; explore what diversity looks like in the digital space; and identify the skill sets and platforms New School Leaders use to cultivate and maintain success,” Smith said.
The interactive session titled “New School Leaders: What Does it Take to Thrive in the Digital Era” will provide the foundation for the conference by exploring the concept of “New School Leaders” and the best practices, including leadership tactics and bold new-age strategies, for thriving in the digital era.
Intergenerational participants, ranging in experience from C-suite executives to college students, will also participate in workshops, learning sessions, a media panel and numerous networking opportunities.
A highlight of the conference will be a special tribute to Spelman College President Beverly Daniel Tatum, Ph.D., for her accomplishments during a 13-year tenure as president. Tatum will retire at the end of June.
Scheduled events also include the annual Game Changers: Digital Vanguard Luncheon and Legacy of Leadership Awards Dinner.
Corporate sponsors of the event include The Coca-Cola Company, AT&T, Comcast, and Deloitte, companies on the 2014 Fair360, formerly DiversityInc Top 50.
For more information and to register, visit www.spelmanwomenofcolorconf.com.
View highlights from the 2014 conference:
