Diversity Is E.P.I.C. 2017 This Week at Walton College

University of Arkansas students, faculty and staff are invited to learn about the importance of diversity in corporate America and in the global economy during Diversity is E.P.I.C. 2017, Oct. 23 to 27, hosted by the Office of Diversity and Inclusion and Walton Career Services at the Sam M. Walton College of Business.

This year's keynote speaker panel is on "Diversity in the Workplace: A Panel Discussion of Industry Professionals." It will be held Wednesday, Oct. 25, from 4 to 5 p.m. in the auditorium of the Donald W. Reynolds Center for Enterprise Development.

Panelists from Academy Sports and Outdoors, Hormel Foods, J.B. Hunt Transport Inc. and Walmart will discuss the globalization of business and how it is changing the face of the American workforce, emphasizing the importance of effective leadership in managing diversity in the workplace. The presenters will also provide ways to recognize and value different perspectives and talents vital to an organization's survival and growth.

Diversity in the Workplace panelists are:

• Holly Keeton, manager of talent acquisition at Academy Sports and Outdoors
• Andre Goodlet, manager of diversity and inclusion at Hormel Foods
• Todd Jenkins, who will serve as the moderator, senior head, diversity, inclusion and innovation at J.B. Hunt Transport Inc.
• Eugene Cook, vice president of application operations at Walmart Technology

The week's events are designed to elevate conversations about diversity and inclusion. They provide learning opportunities for students, engagement opportunities with employers who value a diverse workforce and plenty of free food.

Participating companies include Academy Sports and Outdoors, Amazon, Colgate-Palmolive, EY, Hormel Foods, J.B. Hunt Transport Inc., Tyson Foods, Walmart and 4Media Group. Students should RSVP through Handshake. 

Other activities are:

• Picnic on the Plaza: Monday, Oct. 23; Shollmier Plaza
• Pitched Perfect Workshop: Tuesday, Oct. 24; RCED Seminar A-103
• Company of the Day – Hormel Foods: Oct. 25; WCOB Atrium & RCED Seminar A-103
• Diversity in the Workplace Panel: Oct. 25; RCED auditorium
• Diversity Donut Day: Thursday, Oct. 26; Shollmier Plaza
• Global Impact Pop Up Shop: Oct. 26; RCED Seminar A-103