Presenters
Keynote Speaker
Melanie Miller
Melanie is a highly accomplished and sought-after consultant, trainer and speaker offering organizations consulting and training services, keynotes and design with a focus on optimizing organizational effectiveness. With a vast repertoire of workshops and speaking engagements under her belt, Melanie consistently garners exceptional reviews and evaluations. Her portfolio includes designing and implementing enterprise-wide training programs on diversity, equity, inclusion, leadership, and more, across global contexts.
Leveraging her background in corporate sales and advertising, Melanie offers organizational development consulting, training, and culture audits, blending storytelling to forge impactful connections. Through strategic diversity, equity, and inclusion solutions, Melanie empowers employees and organizations to surpass business objectives. With a clientele spanning various sectors, including education, government, and non-profits, Melanie’s influence extends to prestigious companies like Coca-Cola, IBM, and NASA. She holds leadership roles in prominent associations and collaborates on inclusion research with leading institutions. Melanie’s commitment to excellence is evident in her multi-year partnership with IBM and her engagements as a featured speaker at Harvard University’s Women’s
Thursday Luncheon Speaker
Mozelle Daniels
Mozelle E. Daniels was appointed Deputy Chief Counsel of Administration/Director of Diversity of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board in August of 2006. On June 20, 2008, in addition to her duties as Director of Diversity, Mozelle began serving as Special Counsel to the Executive Director. As the Director of Diversity, she is responsible for guiding efforts to oversee and promote diversity in all aspects of gaming in the Commonwealth as mandated by the Gaming Act.
She received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from Temple University and her Law Degree from Howard University.
Mozelle is licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. She is admitted to practice before the United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit, the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and the Supreme Court of the United States.
Friday Luncheon Speaker
Jeffrey Abramowitz J.D.
Jeff is a lifelong resident of the Fay-West area, and he brings a rich tapestry of experience to his role at the Westmoreland Food Bank. After a fulfilling career as a consultant, Jeff felt compelled to address pressing community needs, particularly food insecurity exacerbated by the pandemic. His vision and passion led him to pioneer the department’s evolution, emphasizing employee empowerment and fostering a culture of compassion and inclusivity.
Jeff’s diverse background, including legal expertise and extensive for-profit sector experience, equips him with a unique perspective to drive meaningful change. Committed to advancing diversity and social impact, he leverages his skills to forge alliances between public and private sectors, advocating for community welfare with strategic foresight. Education: West Virginia University, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Political Science and Government, Juris Doctorate, Law, West Virginia University College of Law.
Tiffany brings over 16 years of dynamic Human Resources expertise across diverse industries. Armed with a Master’s Degree in HR and Labor Relations and a Bachelor’s Degree in HR, Communications, and Adult Education and Training, Tiffany has left an indelible mark in both non-profit and Fortune 100 organizations. A dedicated community leader, she serves on the Board of Directors for three Pittsburgh non-profits, earning accolades such as the prestigious Jefferson Award for her exemplary volunteerism and leadership.
Tiffany’s commitment to social impact is further recognized through the Curio412 Powered by Purpose Award, celebrating her philanthropic endeavors. As an enthusiastic mentor and advocate for collaborative efforts, she believes in the power of unity. Tiffany’s love for writing shines through her co-authorship of “Can a Zebra Change Its Stripes?”—part of the “Bruno’s Amazing Adventures” series, aimed at instilling values of acceptance and diversity in children, aligning with her mission to change the world, one child at a time.
Romero brings over two decades of social sector expertise to his role. A prominent figure in his community, Davis is celebrated for his bold leadership and national speaking engagements on critical issues like juvenile justice, youth violence, trauma, and human trafficking. Previously, he served as the program director of family violence intervention across multiple counties in Northern California, addressing both victims and offenders with compassion and innovation. Davis also pioneered a transformative youth and adult development program emphasizing essential skills and values.
As the former program manager of Sow-A-Seed Community Foundation, he orchestrated alternative opportunities for at-risk youth within the educational system, offering crucial support services and mentoring. Davis, drawing from his professional acumen and personal journey, continues to enlighten diverse audiences nationwide, including educators, law enforcement, and social service agencies.
Undraye Howard, Ph.D.
Dr. Howard has over two decades of experience in driving impactful change. With a rich background in a leadership role at Social Current and its predecessor, the Alliance for Strong Families and Communities, Dr. Howard is a catalyst for transformation in the social sector. Leading initiatives in strategy development, leadership evolution, and DEI advancement, he empowers community-based organizations (CBOs) to excel in their missions.
Dr. Howard’s deep commitment to community service is evidenced by his board memberships and active involvement in Milwaukee initiatives. With a doctorate in business from Bellevue University, he continues to shape the landscape of social impact with his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication. Dr. Howard holds a doctorate in business from Bellevue University. He received his Master of Arts in Communication and Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin.
Cindy’s career spans over two decades of being dedicated to empowering and collaborating with nonprofit organizations. With a diverse background encompassing executive directorship, program management, and IT leadership, Cindy seamlessly transitions between roles as a consultant, trainer, coach, and facilitator. Drawing from over three decades of practical experience and formal education, Cindy possesses a unique blend of strategic insight and meticulous attention to detail, making them an invaluable asset in any setting.
As a seasoned speaker and trainer, Cindy captivates audiences with engaging and interactive presentations, having addressed diverse groups on myriad topics at esteemed events hosted by leading organizations like the Nonprofit Technology Network and the Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations. A distinguished graduate of Seton Hill University, Cindy holds degrees in Computer Science, Business Administration, and Instructional Design, reflecting their commitment to lifelong learning and excellence.
Laurie holds a master’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh and is a licensed social worker. Laurie is an enthusiastic advocate working to improve the lives of those impacted by mental illness. She has spent decades working in the behavioral health field promoting recovery, early detection, education, and quality services and programs for those with mental health issues. Laurie has supported the education of mental health professionals by working as a field instructor and adjunct professor for colleges and universities. awards or publications. Laurie currently serves these organizations:
- Public Policy Committee of Mental Health America
- Public Policy Committee of the Greater Pittsburgh Nonprofit Partnership,
- President Elect of the Mental Health Association in PA
- Intellectual Disabilities Advisory Committee
- Vice Chair Ray of Hope Suicide Awareness and Prevention Task Force of Westmoreland County
Lyzona Marshall, MBA
Assistant Professor of Business & Director, Wukich Center for Entrepreneurial Opportunities, School of Business at Seton Hill University since 2005
Lyzona “Lyz” Marshall, MBA, is a full-time faculty member, a business counselor, a small business owner and certified business advisor to support individuals, small businesses and organizations from ideation to startup to sunset. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, a Master’s of Business Administration degree, and is a doctoral candidate for a Doctor of Business Administration degree. Her research interests include the development of women and minority entrepreneurs, government contracting and the small business use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools. She also holds certifications for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in the Workplace and as an Entrepreneurial Mindset Facilitator. She has also authored or co-authored journal articles, textbooks and training programs and initiatives.
She is the recipient of several entrepreneurship education grant awards, women in leadership awards and serves as an active community volunteer and board member, with current service on The Blackburn Center, Pheple Federal Credit Union, and Women Empowered for Entrepreneurial Excellence.
Dr. Roebuck is a results-oriented senior leader with extensive experience in executing programs and strategies to promote accountability and awareness in leadership, diversity, equity and inclusion, marketing, communications, training, and project management working in corporate, higher education and nonprofit organizations. She has provided marketing strategies to identify diverse talent both inside and outside of the region, worked with Employee Resource Groups and professional organizations to create engagement opportunities to connect diverse job seekers and employers. Yvonne is described as a change agent because of her ability to evaluate processes and recommend realistic solutions.
Yvonne is a strong proponent of “what gets measured, matters”. Her research work explored the leadership styles of African Americans in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors. For organizations, she creates metrics and reporting mechanisms to effectively measure, track and report companies’ progress toward their goals. Her professional roles have included national marketing director, public information officer, marketing and communications for a $70 million multi-state international social services organization, and a university professor. In addition, she is a diversity presenter/moderator, and leadership facilitator.
Janine Jelks-Seale serves as the Director, Health Equity with UPMC Health Plan. She works on the cutting edge of a large-scale systemic effort to address legacy issues in health equity and disparity. Jelks-Seale blends business, technical, and creative acumen and a talent for distilling complex concepts into plain language together to bridge the gaps between silos, lead problem-solving initiatives, and deliver results. She is an experienced professional with past roles within Fortune 500 firms, local and federal government, and local and national non-profit organizations.
Jelks-Seale previously served as Senior Advisor, Office of Administration, Allegheny County Department of Human Services providing strategic planning and project management to Allegheny County Department of Human Services (ACDHS) to support its aim of improving the quality, equity, and effectiveness of its services to the residents of Allegheny County. While at ACDHS, Jelks-Seale served as Foster America Fellow, Workforce Development to improve the outcomes for children and families through initiatives designed to address critical child welfare workforce challenges.
Jelks-Seale has also worked as a Research & Development Engineer for General Mills, Inc.—one of the largest consumer products manufacturers and marketers in the world with over 100 well-known brands. Her product development experience covered product improvement and new product development roles supporting Progresso Soup and Hamburger Helper as well as leading product R&D productivity efforts for Chex Mix, Bugles, and Gardetto’s brands.
Jelks-Seale presently serves as a Pennsylvania Department of Health’s Office of Health Equity Advisory Committee member. She serves as a board member of Footbridge for Families—an organization providing rapid support to families facing short-term financial crises which have no other solution. She also serves as a board member of Assemble—a nonprofit organization and community space for arts and technology education located in Pittsburgh’s Garfield neighborhood. In her free time, Jelks-Seale enjoys exploring Pittsburgh’s urban and park landscapes through walking, running, cycling, and kayaking as well as supporting local performing and visual arts.
Education/Training:
- Bachelor of Chemical Engineering from the University of Delaware
- Master of Science in Public Policy and Management from Carnegie Mellon University
Norman Wright Jr.
As a seasoned Business Growth & Marketing Consultant, Norman Wright Jr. partners with his clients to empower them in achieving new business opportunities, maximizing profits, and fostering a culture of peer-to-peer leadership team accountability.
With an impressive track record spanning over 33 years in the advertising and marketing consulting field, Norm possesses a natural flair for crafting compelling narratives and harnessing creative technologies. His primary focus lies in educating and supporting his clients by refining their target audience, shaping their messaging, and devising strategies to engage stakeholders while driving key performance indicators effectively.
Norm serves as a trusted advisor, working closely with Business Leaders to shape the direction of their company, establish & strengthen their brand identity, and positioning them as the industry experts. Moreover, Norm is dedicated to helping businesses implement KPI-driven internal programs promoting “Team Peer-to-Peer Accountability,” ensuring that organizations remain aligned with their primary mission and growth objectives, thereby adding exceptional value to their customers and growth.
Hailing from New Richmond, OH, graduated from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2007 with a degree in communications. Currently serving as the Director of implicit bias initiatives at the Freedom Center, he spearheads “OPEN YOUR MIND,” an innovative exhibit and interactive learning lab dedicated to elucidating implicit bias. As a beacon of equality, diversity, and inclusion, the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center champions cutting-edge approaches to combat discrimination, recognizing its nuanced manifestations.
The implicit bias learning lab endeavors to broaden horizons, fostering introspection and empathy. Through engaging real-world examples, dynamic scenarios, and interactive activities, including brain teasers and illusions, we challenge perceptions and illuminate the intricacies of the human mind. Our mission is to revolutionize attitudes towards bias, sparking transformative self-awareness and societal change.