Social and Networking Event
Lunch & Learn: Navigating Difficult Conversations
23 April 2024 • 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM EDT | Prince George Exhibition Hall, Hall E Stage
This hour lunch and learn will delve into the relationship between equity and inclusion and difficult conversations, with an emphasis on how to prepare for effectively navigate conversations related to inclusion and identity. Participants will engage with case scenarios and be provided with resources to continue learning post the workshop.
Presenter: Dr. Alexis J. Stokes
![](https://spie.org/Images/Graphics/Headshots-sorted/S/Stokes-Alexis.jpg)
Dr. Alexis J. Stokes is the Founder and Chief Consultant of Stokes Strategy & Consulting (SSC). SSC provides consultation and training services to education and corporate organizations, specializing in helping organizations move from words to sustainable action and creating a culture of engagement through equity driven practices. She has over 13 years of experience working with non-profit and higher education institutions including Harvard University, YMCA of Middle Tennessee, Bridge Nashville Inc., Goodwill Industries, and Shorelight Education - Auburn Global. Throughout her career she has worked to not only increase college and career access but also create systemic changes to support the success of marginalized communities. Dr. Stokes also serves as the Associate Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Harvard University, where she is charged with building community engagement and learning initiatives. Prior to this role, she served as the Assistant Dean for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). While in this role, she administered the School’s inaugural climate survey, spearheaded the development of a 5 year strategic plan, and welcomed the School’s inaugural cohort of post-baccalaureate scholars.
Dr. Stokes is a native of New Orleans, LA and Mobile, AL and an avid supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana, a Master of Education in Community Counseling from the University of Georgia, and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University. She was awarded the Donald A. Gatzke Dissertation Award by the American Association of University Administrators for her work on “An Explanatory Model of First Year Retention”. Dr. Stokes is certified in Cultural Intelligence (CQ) and Unconscious Bias through the Cultural Intelligence Center.
MENU: Boxed lunch with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options available.
SETUP: Round tables with approximately 8 chairs per table.
Presenter: Dr. Alexis J. Stokes
![](https://spie.org/Images/Graphics/Headshots-sorted/S/Stokes-Alexis.jpg)
Dr. Alexis J. Stokes is the Founder and Chief Consultant of Stokes Strategy & Consulting (SSC). SSC provides consultation and training services to education and corporate organizations, specializing in helping organizations move from words to sustainable action and creating a culture of engagement through equity driven practices. She has over 13 years of experience working with non-profit and higher education institutions including Harvard University, YMCA of Middle Tennessee, Bridge Nashville Inc., Goodwill Industries, and Shorelight Education - Auburn Global. Throughout her career she has worked to not only increase college and career access but also create systemic changes to support the success of marginalized communities. Dr. Stokes also serves as the Associate Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer at Harvard University, where she is charged with building community engagement and learning initiatives. Prior to this role, she served as the Assistant Dean for Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at the Harvard School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS). While in this role, she administered the School’s inaugural climate survey, spearheaded the development of a 5 year strategic plan, and welcomed the School’s inaugural cohort of post-baccalaureate scholars.
Dr. Stokes is a native of New Orleans, LA and Mobile, AL and an avid supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities. She has a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Xavier University of Louisiana, a Master of Education in Community Counseling from the University of Georgia, and a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Leadership and Policy from Vanderbilt University. She was awarded the Donald A. Gatzke Dissertation Award by the American Association of University Administrators for her work on “An Explanatory Model of First Year Retention”. Dr. Stokes is certified in Cultural Intelligence (CQ) and Unconscious Bias through the Cultural Intelligence Center.
Event Details
FORMAT: Interactive education session with a boxed lunch.MENU: Boxed lunch with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options available.
SETUP: Round tables with approximately 8 chairs per table.