STEP UP 2025: Moving Equity Forward
Step Up 2025: Moving Equity Forward is not just a conference—it's a powerful movement dedicated to understanding and advancing the intersectionality of race, equity, diversity and inclusion.
On Friday, April 25, 2025, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. PST, Leadership Snohomish County invites you to a virtual event with presenters across multiple fields and industries, working to build capacity and connection in support of employees, leaders, and the communities they serve.
This event will equip you with strategies and day-to-day actions that span sectors from business and government to nonprofits.
Participants will delve into unexplored aspects of diversity, equity, and inclusion and discuss how emphasizing these areas supports your bottom line and contributes to organizational success. Join Leadership Snohomish County at Step Up 2025 and participate in a transformative opportunity.
Our interactive conference offers attendees opportunities to engage in discussions, network with others, and participate in Q&A sessions. We meticulously curate various workshops to cater to our audience's diverse interests and learning needs. These solution-oriented sessions delve into unexplored aspects of racial equity, offering fresh perspectives on pressing issues.
To learn more about Leadership Snohomish County, contact info@leadershipsc.org.
Event Accessibility Notice:
Leadership Snohomish County is committed to making the event accessible to everyone. If you have questions or need assistance, please email info@leadershipsc.org.
Sponsorships Available
Because your organization is committed to equity and ready to take meaningful action, consider sponsoring Step Up 2025. Sponsorship supports your organization with visibility, promotion and tools to support the development of your staff and leaders. Email info@leadershipsc.org for details.
event schedule
Click here to view speakers & workshop descriptions.
Welcome & Morning Remarks
8:00 am - 8:30 am
Morning Keynote
8:30 am - 9:30 am
Amira Barger, Executive Vice President | Head of DEI Advisory | Health Communications | Edelman
Morning Wrap Up & Break
9:30 am - 9:45 am
AM Workshops
9:45 am - 11:45 am
Ty Reed, Recovery Career Services, Building Mental Health and Recovery Friendly Workplaces
Alicia Crank, NW WA Civic Circle, Addressing The Civic Engagement Desert
Lunch & Networking
11:45 am - 12:15 pm
Afternoon Welcome
12:15 pm - 12:30 pm
Afternoon Keynote
Grant Harris, MBA, CDE®
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Afternoon Wrap Up
1:30 pm - 2:00 pm
PM Workshops
2:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Ami Davis, The Acadami, Trauma Responsive Care with an Equity Lens
Frank Velasquez, 4DaHood, How Curiosity Catalyzes Conversations and Creates Genuine Collaborations
Elaine Szeto & Dr. Alma Trinidad, Portland State University, School of Social Work, Everyday Courage and Acts of Love: Diversity & Equity Work as Inner Work
James Boutin, Navigating Conflict Across Differences of Privilege and Identity
Avery Berschauer, A - B Inclusion, Planning Inclusive Events
Closing Remarks & Announcements
4:00 pm - 4:30 pm