Adrienne Whitaker on LinkedIn: I have had the pleasure of partnering with Angela Cusack for a long time.… (2024)

Exciting news from Marymount University and the Northern Virginia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce! 🌟 More than 25% of the undergraduate student population at Marymount identifies as Hispanic, earning the institution the HSI designation in 2020. This year, Marymount University is partnering with NOVAHCC to host the 6th National Diversity Career Expo 2024 on September 18th and 19th at the Marymount University Ballston Center. The event aims to connect diverse job seekers with a variety of employers. Register here: https://lnkd.in/gUfQCTWA 🌟 #MarymountUniversity #DiversityCareerExpo2024 #HispanicAccess #NetworkingOpportunity

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When this arrived yesterday, I did not expect how excited I would be. This month at our National Convention, the theme was, “All In.” President Biden's words resonated deeply with me at the convention when he said, “I am a lifetime member of the NAACP and I’m all in.” Today, I am so proud to be able to say the same thing!The NAACP, an interracial American organization, is dedicated to abolishing segregation and discrimination across various facets of society. From housing, education, employment, voting to transportation, the NAACP stands firm against racism and fights to ensure ALL African Americans their constitutional rights.Interested in joining my chapter, the Henrico NAACP? There is no better time than now to be “all in”. Let's work together towards a more inclusive and just society. Join us in making a difference today!

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Earlier this month at the National NAACP Convention, I had the privilege of seeing President Joe Biden in-person. It was a last-minute decision to attend the conference in Las Vegas, and the announcement of the President's address made it even more special. This experience marked the seventh time I have been in the presence of a U.S. President, starting with Ronald Reagan.Recently, when asked which President I enjoyed the most, my close friends already know the surprising answer. One of the Presidents stood out for being exceptionally nice, funny, and laid back. To me, he felt like a friend, making the memory unforgettable.#NAACP #NationalConvention #PresidentBiden #USPresidents #MemorableEncounters

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A BOLD $100 million transformative gift for my alma mater paves the way for @ to continue to advance groundbreaking research, promote sustainability, and educate the next generation of global leaders in marine and coastal sciences. Go Tribe!

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A couple of weeks ago, I shared the news about my friend Desiree Roots Centeio departure from Virginia Repertory Theatre. I am thrilled to announce that Desiree has found a new home at ATLAS, a newly formed theatre partnership dedicated to preserving the history of Virginia theatre. She will be stepping into the role of Program Director, bringing her wealth of experience and talent to this exciting venture. Desiree made history by becoming the first African American to serve as co-artistic director at VA Rep just two years ago, and now she continues to break new ground at ATLAS. The team has already revealed their first production, "Gabriel," a musical that delves into the story of Gabriel's Rebellion, an important chapter in Richmond's history. Additionally, they are launching an educational program in schools to address the opioid crisis, showcasing their commitment to making a positive impact in the community. By joining ATLAS, Desiree is reuniting with her longtime mentors, Phil Whiteway and Bruce Miller, the visionaries behind Virginia Repertory Theatre. Together with Emily Cole-Jones, a well-respected fundraiser in RVA who serves as Managing Director, they are shaping the future of Virginia theatre on their own terms. As Desiree's longtime "PR Manager," I am excited to share more about her journey and celebrate this milestone in her career. Desireé is born and raised in RVA, graduated from Virginia Union University and proud product of Richmond Public Schools. A triple threat performer. (vocalist, dancer, actress). She is a mainstay with Richmond Jazz Society Inc and frequently performs with Richmond Symphony. Stay tuned for updates on this inspiring new chapter!

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It was an honor to personally be a sponsor of the 64th Anniversary Celebration of the Independence of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The event showcased an evening filled with Congolese fashion, music, food, dance, and culture, all in support of a wonderful cause. Dr. Musau WaKabongo’s institute is dedicated to the education and financial sustainability of the Congolese people. I'm proud to have been part of such a meaningful event and spend the evening with good friends.

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Over the past month, I have smiled each time I am in the grocery store at the sight of my friend Desiree Roots Centeio. It is truly ironic that as she graces the cover of Richmond Family Magazine her time at Virginia Repertory Theatre has come to an end. Two years ago, Desiree celebrated a historic achievement as the first African American in a permanent leadership role at a major theatre in Virginia. Her commitment was to build relationships with marginalized underserved communities, exemplified through the inaugural Tall program, which received a transformational grant amount from SisterFund because of its commitment to increased arts exposure for African American girls.As Desiree's position ends, I am sad, not for her but for what it means for inclusive theatre efforts. The industry's call for diversity and inclusivity requires intentional action, as highlighted in "I See You White American Theatre." It serves as a blueprint for companies aspiring to make impactful changes in representation on and off stage. https://lnkd.in/gp7up5GUIn 2020, the commitment to equity and inclusivity was paramount in the theatre world. As I reflect on my own values, I stand firm in supporting organizations that embrace and celebrate diversity. It's a pledge I made years ago and one I uphold now more than ever. I will not work for a company or support an organization that does not see me, embrace me, and celebrate me.Exciting news to come about my new exciting collaboration with Firehouse Theatre. Stay tuned for updates!

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🌟 Join us on July 12th for a mastermind session. The featured leader this month is Anne Morris, founder of The Leadership Consortium (TLC). 🚀 Discover the "5 Steps to Fix Any Problem at Work" and gain insights to enhance your problem-solving skills. At L2L Leadership Institute, we stand out from other networking groups. 🌟 Our sessions focus on your holistic growth - personally, physically, mentally, and professionally. 🌿 Gain the tools to achieve 360-degree goals and lead effectively in today's diverse and ever-evolving work landscape. 🌱 Don't miss this opportunity to cultivate inclusive work cultures and thrive in the new normal. Register today: https://lnkd.in/eEH-Cy6vThe monthly mastermind sessions are part of the professional development program for Urban Financial Services Coalition - Richmond Chapter. I look forward to co-facilitating with Ditu Kasuyi #Leadership #ProfessionalDevelopment #InclusiveCulture #ProblemSolving #NetworkingEvent

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Growing up on Air Force bases out west, weekends were all about spending time at the baseball field - a cherished childhood memory I want to pass on to kids today. Although I didn't play, cheering on different teams was the coolest way to hang out with friends and family. However, funding in urban areas often falls short, depriving kids and families of this experience. Thank you, Corey Nicholson for bringing this to light. I encourage others to join in and make a contribution. https://gofund.me/43f6b85f

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