Agenda
Day 1 • Wednesday, Oct 2
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM
Continental Breakfast
30 min
Inaugural Tribute
30 min
Pastor Wayne B. Lomax, Christina Duncan, Richard A. Berman, Newton B. Sanon
The 2024 OIC of South Florida Middle Class Summit will begin with an Inaugural Tribute that includes the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of our National Anthem, led by Christina Duncan, former president of the OIC of South Florida Youth Leadership Council.
Pastor Wayne B. Lomax, Lead Pastor & Founder of The Fountain Church in Miami Gardens, FL, and Vice Chairman of the Board of OIC of South Florida, will deliver the invocation and opening prayer. Known for his inspiring leadership and deep community engagement, Pastor Lomax has devoted his life to serving others through his ministry and plays a pivotal role in advancing the mission of OIC of South Florida.
With a distinguished career in leadership and governance, Richard Berman, Chairman of the Board of OIC of South Florida, has been instrumental in guiding the strategic direction of OIC of South Florida. His dedication to community service and social impact is evident in his efforts to support educational and economic opportunities for underserved populations.
Mr. Newton Sanon, President & CEO of OIC of South Florida, will present his vision for the future. Under his passionate leadership, the organization has significantly expanded its reach and effectiveness in addressing community needs. Sanon’s commitment to empowering individuals through education, training and supportive services has profoundly impacted many lives, driving the mission of OIC of South Florida forward.
Join us as we set the stage for an event dedicated to empowering the middle class. Be inspired and emboldened to Aspire, Prepare and Achieve.
Pastor Wayne B. Lomax
Richard A. Berman
Newton B. Sanon
9:00 AM – 9:20 AM
What It Means to Be Middle Class
10 min
Dr. David E. Altig
Gain valuable insights from one of our nation’s leading economists, Dr. David E. Altig, Executive Vice President & Chief Economic Adviser at the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, as he delves into the evolving definition of what it means to be middle class in the United States today.
Dr. David E. Altig
Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta
Equity in Health, Education, Funding & Service Delivery
Panel Discussion
55 min
Kristina Francis (Moderator), Dr. Marvin Carr, Sheri Brown Grosvenor, Symeria T. Hudson, Elliot Harris Reyes, William "Bill" Diggs, Eduardo Carrera
Kristina Francis
Dr. Marvin Carr
Sheri Brown Grosvenor
Symeria T. Hudson
Elliot Harris Reyes
Citi Foundation
William "Bill" Diggs
Eduardo Carrera
Nan H. Rich, Mayor, Broward County
5 min
Nan H. Rich
Nan H. Rich
Building a Resilient Workforce through a Generational Lens
Panel Discussion
50 min
Albert E. Dotson, Jr. (Moderator), Teddra Orlando, Jayvia Martin, Ricky Wade, Ivelices Linares Thomas, Brett Atkinson, Rita Case
In the dynamic landscape of the contemporary workforce, the interplay of multiple generations presents a multifaceted challenge. As Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials and Gen Z converge, divergent values, communications styles, work ethics and expectations intersect, often in conflict of each other. In this session, explore the intricacies of generational dynamics, navigating the delicate balance of harmonizing the workplace and harnessing the distinctive strengths of each generation to foster thriving and cohesive intergenerational professional ecosystem.
Albert E. Dotson, Jr.
Teddra Orlando
Jayvia Martin
Ricky Wade
Ivelices Linares Thomas
HR & Beyond
Brett Atkinson
Rita Case
Special Speaker (TBA)
10 min
TBA
TBA
TBA
Contributing Factors
50 min
Kathleen Cannon (Moderator), Sandra Veszi Einhorn, Cindy Arenberg Seltzer, Coree Cuff Lonergan, Henri W. Crockett, Cindy Mason, Renee Jaffee
Today’s workers need to build indispensable skills that not only navigate today’s complexities but also pave the way for a future defined by innovation and success. Delve into the core of preparedness for tomorrow’s challenges as we explore the significance of honing critical skills. Expert speakers will dissect the evolving landscape, emphasizing adaptability, problem-solving and innovative thinking. Uncover practical strategies to cultivate resilience and foresight, ensuring participants grasp the essence of being prepared in an ever-changing world. What skills will we need to develop for future job opportunities?
Kathleen Cannon
Sandra Veszi Einhorn
Cindy Arenberg Seltzer
Coree Cuff Lonergan
Henri W. Crockett
Cindy Mason
Renee Jaffe
Carladenise Edwards, PhD, Chief Administrative Officer, Miami-Dade County
10 min
Carladenise Edwards, PhD
Carladenise Edwards, PhD
Louis J. King II, President & CEO, OIC of America
10 min
Louis J. King II
Louis J. King II
End-of-Day Remarks
15 min
Newton B. Sanon
Newton B. Sanon
Agenda
Day 2 • Thursday, Oct 3
8:00 AM – 8:30 AM
Continental Breakfast
30 min
Opening Tribute
General Session
30 min
Newton B. Sanon, Marcellus W. Osceola, Jr., Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick
Similar to Day One, Day Two’s Opening Tribute includes the Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem and an opening prayer. Special remarks will be delivered by key figures of the South Florida community including Marcellus Osceola Jr., the 7th Tribal Council Chairman of the Seminole Tribe of Florida. Chairman Osceola’s unwavering commitment to preserving the heritage and fostering the growth of the Seminole Tribe reflects his outstanding leadership and dedication to his community. You'll also hear from U.S. Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, representing Florida's 20th Congressional district. Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick serves on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs as the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Technology Modernization. These distinguished guest speakers will set the stage for a day of impactful discussions.
Newton B. Sanon
Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick
Marcellus W. Osceola, Jr.
Taking Care of Business
Panel Discussion
50 min
Juliet Murphy Roulhac (Moderator), Bob Swindell, Shannon Jackson, Rodrick Miller, Sandy-Michael McDonald, Shaheewa T. Jarrett Gelin, Esq., John Scherer
Often there is a misalignment between the evolving talent landscape and the needs of the business community. As industries transform at an unprecedented pace, there’s a pressing challenge in understanding and meeting the current and future talent requirements. This session seeks to dissect the perspectives of the business community, unraveling the complexities of their talent needs. From skill shortages to changing job dynamics, what strategies can be implemented to better align the untapped talent with the ever-changing demands of the current and future business needs.
Juliet Murphy Roulhac
Bob Swindell
Shannon Jackson
Rodrick Miller
Sandy-Michael McDonald
Shaheewa T. Jarrett Gelin, Esq.
John Scherer
Special Presentation (TBA)
5 min
TBA
TBA
TBA
The Sequence: The Evolution of Education to Employment
Panel Discussion
50 min
Maria Flynn (Moderator), Adrienne Johnston, Earl Buford, Madeline Pumariega, Rick Beasley, Dr. Jose L. Dotres, Dr. Howard Hepburn
As the workforce landscape undergoes dynamic changes, it is important to address the critical challenge of aligning education with evolving job market needs. In this session, we will explore the transition from education to employment, emphasizing the importance of adapting curriculum to match industry demands. By exploring innovative strategies, bridging gaps between academia and the job market and fostering skill development, this session explores solutions for enhancing employability skills.
How can education systems and industries collaboratively evolve to ensure a harmonious sequence that equips individuals with the skills needed for today’s workforce?
Maria Flynn
Adrienne Johnston
Earl Buford
Madeline Pumariega
Rick Beasley
Dr. Jose L. Dotres
Dr. Howard Hepburn
Jose Javier Rodriguez, Assistant Secretary of Labor, U.S. Department of Labor
5 min
Jose Javier Rodriguez
Jose Javier Rodriguez
Daniella Levine Cava, Mayor, Miami-Dade County
10 min
Daniella Levine Cava
Daniella Levine Cava
Unlocking Opportunities: Building a Path to Successful Reintegration & Justice Reform
Panel Discussion
50 min
Le'Ann Duran (Moderator), Desmond Meade, Gordon Weekes, Harold F. Pryor, Erica Averion, Leroy Jones
Given Florida has the 3rd largest prison system in the country, it’s crucial to tackle challenges in the justice system and facilitate reintegration, effectively breaking the cycle of recidivism. This involves fostering rehabilitation, offering resources for skill development and promoting employment opportunities. These efforts not only enhance public safety but also contribute to a more equitable system. What impactful strategies and collaborative efforts can be created to support an environment for returning citizens, ultimately contributing to their successful reintegration into society?
Le’Ann Duran
Desmond Meade
Gordon Weekes
Harold F. Pryor
Erica Averion
Florida Foundation for Correctional Excellence
Leroy Jones
Keynote Address: Ricky Dixon, Secretary, Florida Department of Corrections
10 min
Ricky Dixon
Ricky Dixon
Lunch Break
25 min
Honors & Recognition
15 min
Newton B. Sanon
Newton B. Sanon
Special Speaker (TBA)
5 min
TBA
TBA
TBA
The Future of Work
Panel Discussion
50 min
Lenita Jacobs-Simmons (Moderator), Javier Correoso, Francesca de Quesada Covey, Xavier Gonzalez
Considering the dynamic shifts in technology, automation and global connectivity, the future of work is ever evolving. Remote work and digital platforms provide flexibility, enabling individuals to access employment opportunities irrespective of geographical constraints. Upskilling and reskilling initiatives become crucial as demand for digital literacy and specialized skills rises. Entrepreneurship and gig economy participation offer alternative paths to economic advancement. How can our aspirations align with these opportunities so that we thrive in the evolving landscape of work?
Lenita Jacobs-Simmons
Javier Correoso
Francesca de Quesada Covey
Xavier Gonzalez
Terri Ann Brown
Curtis Osceola
Mason Alford, Director, Office of Small Business Innovations, Florida Department of Commerce
5 min
Mason Alford
Mason Alford
Executive Address & Final Call to Action
15 min
Newton B. Sanon
Join us for this powerful conclusion of the 2024 OIC of South Florida Middle Class Summit as Mr. Newton Sanon, President & CEO of OIC of South Florida and visionary founder of the Middle Class Summit, delivers the Final Address & Executive Call to Action. He will emphasize the critical importance of aspiring towards greater heights, preparing with diligence and achieving the collective success that forges the paths of greatness — and the empowerment of the Middle Class — for generations to come.