Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Symposium

“Cultural Humility”

The Washington County Chamber is pleased to announce its highly anticipated 2023 Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Symposium. This year’s symposium centers around the theme of “Cultural Humility,” a profound concept that encapsulates a commitment to continual self-exploration, introspection, and receptivity to knowledge from others. Cultural Humility involves fostering genuine connections with individuals from diverse backgrounds by respecting their values, traditions, and viewpoints. It is a celebration of differences and a dedication to embracing every individual for who they truly are.

The symposium promises an enriching experience through insightful breakout sessions, each designed to explore crucial dimensions of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion:

Breakout Session Topics:

• Addressing Power Imbalances in the Workplace: Delve into the complexities of power dynamics within professional settings. Gain valuable perspectives on strategies to foster equitable environments and empower all team members.

• Lifelong Learning – Never Stop Being Curious: Embrace the spirit of continuous learning and curiosity. Discover how a commitment to lifelong learning can open doors to deeper connections and a broader understanding of the world.

• Allyship – How Are You an Ally?: Explore the profound role of allies in advancing inclusivity. Learn from experts how to authentically support marginalized groups and contribute to a more harmonious and equitable society.

Esteemed Guest Speakers

View Bios Below

Barry Johnson-Smith

BJS Consulting

Barry Johnson-Smith is the founder of BJS Consulting, a DEI consulting company supporting small businesses and organizations with their DEI initiatives. Barry created BJS Consulting because he saw that people wanted to make their organization more diverse, equitable and inclusive, but struggled in implementation/execution. He wants to provide guidance to organizations. He has over 5 years of experience working with organizations in implementing their DEI initiatives. Some of the services he provides are training, analyzing organizations’ DEI strategies, and writing DEI content such as blogs and articles. You can learn more about his DEI services at bjsdeiconsulting.com.

Barry Johnson-Smith is a 27-year-old Black male who has been living in Hillsboro, Oregon, since 2019. He is originally from Lawrenceville, Georgia, and he graduated from Georgia Tech with a B.S. in Computer Engineering and a minor in Computer Science. In his free time, Barry practices martial arts, plays trading card games, and spends quality time with friends.

Jenn Klotz
Community Relations, External Communications Lead
Genentech

Jenn Klotz is a dynamic, accomplished professional focused on building relationships and forging connections to get work done together. She is the Senior Community Relations and Communications Lead for Genentech in Oregon. She has been at Genentech for over 14 years in various roles. During her time at Genentech, Jenn has been a leader in creating and implementing strategies that impact the workforce, the community, and Genentech’s patients through the lens of equity.

Jenn is the Site Advisor for Genentech employee-led Diversity Team Medley and has specifically focused on mentoring women of color early in their careers. She has extensive experience as a speaker, moderator, and panelist on various topics. Jenn was the winner of the 2019 Washington County Athena Women’s Leadership award and is a Leadership Hillsboro graduate from 2015.

Jenn is a Portland native now residing in Hillsboro. She is a mom of two grown sons, a lover of all things wine country, and a professional musician. Jenn’s superpower is connecting ALL people to help improve their lives.

Ian Morton

Pride Northwest

Ian (he/him) is thrilled to call the Pacific Northwest “home” after spending twenty-three years in San Diego, CA. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, with a three year “detour” through Knoxville, TN, he loves returning to a state that has actual seasons! He is joined in his move to Portland by his partner Evan, a nurse at OHSU, and their two cats, Tucker and Pauli.

Having already seen the activist and advocacy spirit in which the Pacific Northwest community comes together, Ian is excited to build robust collaborative partnerships between the many organizations fighting for – and alongside – intentionally sidelined communities. A 2020 graduate of San Diego State University – Majoring in Communication, with Minors in Digital Media Studies & Comparative Literature – he brings to Pride Northwest a specific passion to create, support and provide access to professional and educational resources for LGBTQIA2S+ artists, entrepreneurs, and dreamers!

Robert Turvey

Sustainable Construction Solutions

Pride Northwest

Robert is a seasoned entrepreneur from Portland with deep ties to community engagement and resource development. He owns Sustainable Construction Solutions and a marketing firm. Additionally, he runs Soil and Cedar farm, aimed at producing food and teaching others sustainable agroforestry techniques. Born and raised in Portland, Robert is Board President for Pride Northwest and has served on multiple boards.

Thank You To Our DEI Sponsors

Presenting Sponsor

Supporting Sponsors

Table Sponsors

Hoffman Construction

City of Hillsboro 

Clean Water Services

InRoads Credit Union 

Jireh Semiconductor, Inc. 

NWRESD – HR 

Pacific Landscape Management

The Standard