Summer is flying by, and with fall fast approaching, my excitement is growing for SHIFT! We are working hard here at the National Fund putting the finishing touches on what I know will be our best convening yet.
This year’s theme, “Amplify. Activate. Accelerate.” is framed as a call to action — and it perfectly sums up the type of actions we’re looking to spark to meet the moment.
Those of us who are passionate advocates for workforce equity find ourselves at an inflection point where bold action is necessary to navigate through the headwinds that are blowing harder than ever, threatening to knock us off course.
That’s why we’re ready to spark conversations, ideas, and insights that will help to Amplify voices that need to be heard, Activate new solutions to persistent problems, and Accelerate the real change we know is needed to achieve an equitable workforce.
The National Fund and our network partners have made great strides in shifting narratives and changing perceptions around what’s possible and necessary to accelerate toward a future where economic mobility is attainable for all. But how can we continue pressing forward and not get stuck in what we’re used to or even what’s working for now?
I’m looking forward to kicking things off in Memphis by hosting a great opening plenary conversation centered on this theme. Leading workforce change agents Robert Espinoza from the National Skills Coalition, Anne Price of The Maven Collaborative, and Todd Greene from WorkRise, will join me for a frank discussion on how can we maintain the momentum and sustain the shift toward equity, especially in the midst of a politically fractious climate.
My hope is that everyone will walk out of this conversation energized and excited for two days of excellent sessions that offer something for everyone — a quick stop at the 30-minute Spotlights, insightful hour-long Submersions, and even 2.5 hour-long Studios where attendees can dive deep into innovative tools and engage in active learning.
If you’ve already punched your ticket, then we can’t want to see you there! If getting your ticket is still on your to-do list, what are you waiting for? The seats in the room are already 75% full and we don’t want you to get stuck on the waiting list.
I can’t wait to see you in Memphis!
