A recent Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) panel hosted by the Kankakee County Chamber of Commerce brought together regional leaders for an engaging conversation on building more inclusive workplaces—and Kankakee Community College played a key role.

Held at Uplifted Care in Bourbonnais, the event marked the second installment in a three-part DEI series. Melany Villagomez, coordinator of the EDI Center at KCC, served as moderator, guiding a discussion among panelists Andrea Lareau of Uplifted Care, Stephanie Brown of Harbor House, and Tyler Kehoe-Reynolds of Easter Seals.

The panel focused on advancing equity, representation, and opportunity in the workplace, while highlighting practical strategies organizations can use to foster inclusive environments. 

"Melany's leadership helped create a meaningful dialogue that encouraged sharing real-world experiences," said Kari Nugent, vice president for Advancement, Marketing and Public Relations at KCC. "The audience came away with practical perspectives to take back to their offices."

The series will continue with its final session hosted at KCC on Sept. 1.

L-R: Melany Villagomez, Andrea Lareau, Stephanie Brown and Tyler Kehoe-Reynolds

L-R: Kendra Souligne, Melany Villagomez, Tierra Dixon-Sullivan and Kari Nugent