EEO advisory committee debates tagline and keynote process for October diversity luncheon

Chair Dominic Biles led committee discussion on planning the 26th annual diversity luncheon, presenting three proposed taglines and reading a submitted biography for keynote candidate Talia Lrande. Members agreed to postpone a full vote on the tagline until they could confirm alignment between the keynote’s planned remarks and the chosen theme.

Constance Bibs told the committee that the 26th annual diversity luncheon is scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 15, 2026. Members discussed whether other keynote candidates had been considered; staff said the committee had received a single biography submission to date and encouraged members to submit additional suggestions to the subcommittee.

Committee members pressed for clarity on the vetting process and whether a speech draft would be requested. Staff explained that after the subcommittee identifies top candidates, HR and the county administrator’s office review names to check for conflicts of interest; typically the chair and an HR representative meet with finalists to discuss audience expectations and speech focus. Staff also said that, once the subcommittee reaches decisions, EEO office staff will gather caterer quotes and budget details for committee review.

Members asked about deadlines and reporting: staff said the subcommittee will likely report progress at the July meeting, which allows administrative vetting and time for alternates; the group noted that award recipient selection remains on the August agenda for a formal vote. The committee encouraged coordinators to reach out and participate in the subcommittee to broaden candidate suggestions.

No formal vote on the tagline or keynote took place at the June meeting; the committee directed staff to solicit additional bios and to coordinate logistics and vendor quotes through the subcommittee.