Breakout Sessions

This session illuminates the imperative of fostering a pervasive culture of health equity within organizations and underscores the criticality of seamlessly integrating efforts across the entire healthcare ecosystem. Participants will gain invaluable insights into strategies that foster internal health equity, encompassing accountability measures, workforce diversity, and inclusive business strategies. Additionally, the session delves into the realm of life sciences companies, exploring methods to align products and services with the diverse needs of populations through expanded data measures, fortified research and development methodologies, and equity-driven enhancements in manufacturing, access, and community benefit.

• Tuesday, 7 November, 10:15 - 11:15AM (Sheraton 4)
• Speakers: 
  • Howard Reid, Global Head, Global Public Health and Social Impact, Johnson & Johnson
  • Sarah Shier, US Sustainability and Equity Senior Manager, Deloitte
  • Juny Simpson, Head of Health Equity, Customer Engagement, Genentech
  • (Moderator) Drew Wilkins, US Consulting Managing Director, Deloitte
• Designed for: Healthcare executives who are in positions to influence health equity strategies within their companies and who want to make sure their approaches are innovative, inclusive, and collaborative across the healthcare ecosystem. It may also be of interest to middle managers who have aspirations for advancing to decision-making roles, as it will outline key considerations that may be helpful in helping to understand the skills and behaviors that contribute to success in these roles. 
• Conference track: Gamechangers

True leadership extends beyond hierarchical positions. This powerful session will shine a spotlight on executive leaders who have made significant impact at every level of their careers. Through the lens of their unique perspectives and remarkable journeys, these executives will offer strategies for amplifying influence for maximum impact by building credibility, establishing strong networks, and effectively communicating ideas and vision. They will also explore common obstacles attendees may face, such as gender biases, stereotypes, and imposter syndrome, that can hinder their ability to exert influence and offer strategies for overcoming these obstacles and leveraging their strengths to become influential change-makers.   

• Tuesday, 7 November, 10:15 - 11:15 AM (Sheraton 3)
• Speakers: 
  • (Moderator) Sherlonda Martin, Global Head, DE&I (GMSGQ), Takeda
  • Heather Dean, SVP, Neuroscience Business Unit Head, Takeda
  • Karen Dindial, Co-Founder and Executive Partner, DKI Health
  • Greg Lewis, Managing Partner / Group President, Calcium + Company
  • Michelle Speller-Thurman, VP, Head, Legal Mergers and Acquisitions and Licensing, Organon
• Designed for: Leaders at any level who want to learn skills, strategies, and behaviors that can help you stand out as a competent leader
• Conference track: Influencers

Through bold and courageous leadership, we have the ability to shape a future where diversity is embraced, inclusion is the standard, and organizations flourish by harnessing the extraordinary potential of every individual. However, building balanced and inclusive leadership teams is merely the first step; ensuring lasting inclusivity demands ongoing effort and skilled leadership. Join us for an enlightening session as accomplished and passionate male allies, recount their advocacy journeys and share strategies they utilize to foster inclusion. Attendees will leave inspired to lead with courage and integrity, taking on the challenges of engaging in difficult conversations, promoting inclusion, and overcoming resistance to change.   

• Tuesday, 7 November, 10:15 - 11:15 AM (Sheraton 1 and 2)
• Speakers:
  • (Moderator) 2022 HBA STAR Wendy White, Board Member, CEEK Women's Health
  • 2019 HBA Honorable Mentor Peter Anastasiou, CEO, Capsida Therapeutics
  • 2023 HBA Honorable Mentor Jag Dosanjh, SVP, AbbVie, and President, Neuroscience and Eye Care
  • Otis Johnson, PhD, MPA, HBA Advisory Board member, and Principal Consultant, Trial Equity
  • More speakers TBA
• Designed for: Leaders who want to contribute to gender equity through advocacy.
• Conference track: Connectors

Leading amidst a rapidly changing global economy presents unique challenges such as layoffs, budget cuts, staffing shortages, supplier issues, and competitive business models. This is further compounded by challenges to corporate Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) efforts, which has leaders on the defensive for justifying programs and activities. Balancing these demands while staying on the cutting edge of innovation requires exceptional leadership skills. Join this candid panel discussion to gain practical insights from seasoned executives for maintaining motivation, nurturing agile decision-making, identifying emerging trends, and fostering creativity and innovation for solutions to problems. 

• Tuesday, 7 November, 10:15 - 11:15 AM (Sheraton 5)
• Speakers:
  • Vicki Guida, COO, Atlas
  • Cheryl Lubbert, CEO, Reverba
  • Kristen Vargas, VP, Retail Operations, Walgreens
• Designed for: Managers and project leaders at all levels who want to stay on the cutting edge of innovation
• Conference track: Visionaries

Discover the potential of technology in advancing health equity in this impactful session. Through insightful discussions and real-world examples from executives in the industry, we will explore how innovative technologies can bridge gaps, improve access, and empower underserved communities. From AI to data analytics, attendees will gain a deeper understanding of the transformative role technology plays in addressing health disparities and learn strategies for partnering with organizations across the healthcare ecosystem. Join us as we unlock the power of technology to create a future where everyone has equal opportunities for better health and well-being. 

• Tuesday, 7 November, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (Sheraton 5)
• Speakers: 
  • (Moderator) Rashmi Gupta, Senior Director, Sales - Global Pharmaceuticals and Life Sciences, Microsoft
  • Rose-Ann Blenman-Abange, PhD, CPM, Senior Director, Head of EDDS Portfolio Strategy and Integration, Johnson & Johnson
  • Jewel Jones, EVP, Global Inclusion and Health Equity, Real Chemistry
  • Charlotte Owens MD, FACOG, SVP, Head of Medical Affairs and Outcomes Research, Organon
  • Linn Parish, Head of Health Equity Alliances and Partnership, Takeda
  • Tracy Picon, Global Learning Officer, Health and Life Sciences, Microsoft
  • Sema Sgaier, CEO an Co-Founder, Surgo Health
• Designed for: Individuals who want to learn more about what goes into building impactful collaborations with tech companies to support health equity efforts
• Conference track: Gamechangers

Join us for an engaging panel discussion that will inspire you to think creatively about how you can solve looming workforce challenges of the future. Discover the inspiring work of OneTen, a visionary organization dedicated to empowering one million individuals by providing them with family-sustaining careers within the next decade and The Female Quotient, a woman-owned business working with companies and conscious leaders to curate experiences, thought leadership, and solutions designed to achieve gender equality in the workplace and beyond. Gain valuable insights from current and former executives at Eli Lilly, Gilead, and Merck, who are focusing on building an inclusive workforce of the future and from Female Quotient CEO Shelley Zalis, who will share information about her company’s global certification initiatives. You will leave this session contemplating which perspectives, skillsets, and life experiences are missing from your staff and project teams and how your company can benefit from creating places at the table.

• Tuesday, 7 November, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (Sheraton 4)
• Speakers: 
  • (Moderator) Shelley Zalis, Founder and CEO, The Female Quotient
  • Kelly Copes-Anderson, VP and Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Eli Lilly
  • Debbie Dyson, CEO, One Ten
  • Perika Sampson, Global Diversity Equity and Inclusion Strategist, Sampson Dearborn Consulting
  • Celeste Warren, VP, Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence, Merck
• Designed for: Executives, human resources leaders, DEI leaders, and leaders committed to building inclusive staff and project teams that give each member opportunities to maximize their talents and interests, while bringing value to the team and the company.
• Conference track: Connectors

Unlock the power of employee resource groups (ERGs) to drive meaningful progress in advancing gender equity within your organization. In this dynamic session, we will explore how ERGs can serve as catalysts for change, fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for women. Participants will gain insights into the key strategies for leveraging ERGs effectively, including empowering members to advocate for gender equity, providing resources for professional development, and fostering mentorship and sponsorship opportunities. Through interactive discussions and real-life case studies, attendees will learn best practices for engaging leadership, aligning ERG goals with organizational objectives, and measuring the impact of gender equity initiatives.   

• Tuesday, 7 November, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (Sheraton 1 and 2)
• Speakers: 
  • (Moderator) Caitlin Purinai, Senior Director, HR Business Partner, Syneos
  • Theresa Britt-Eckstein, MA, Executive Director, Marketing and Sales Operations, Otsuka
  • Carla Daily, Global PBRG Lead, BMS Network of Women, Bristol Myers Squibb
  • Kristen Von Seggern, VP, Strategic Programs, Supply Chain, and Operations, Johnson & Johnson
• Designed for: Leaders and members of ERGs interested in learning about promising practices that are moving the needle for gender equity.
• Conference track: Influencers

Gain valuable insights into achieving gender equity in the workplace with the Gender Equity Playbook session. This interactive and informative session will guide participants through a comprehensive playbook of strategies, best practices, and actionable steps to create a more equitable and inclusive environment. We will explore the key pillars of the playbook, including addressing unconscious bias, promoting equal pay and opportunities, supporting work-life integration, and fostering a culture of mentorship and sponsorship. Through engaging discussions and practical case studies, attendees will learn how to effectively implement these strategies within their own organizations.  

• Tuesday, 7 November, 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM (Sheraton 3)
• Speakers: 
  • (Moderator) Marsha Anderson, Senior Director, Global Head, Gender Parity Collaborative
  • Nada Obeid, Executive Director, Head, Regional Market Acceess - US, Amgen
• Designed for: Executives, DEI leaders, decision-makers, and other advocates interested in learning practices and accountability measures for making a measurable impact on gender equity at your companies.
• Conference track: Visionaries

This illuminating session coincides with the screening of "Arise Firebird: Women of Color Finding Joy in Work," a documentary by filmmaker Jimi Okubanjo that sheds light on the experiences of three resilient women who navigated toxic racism and sexism, rebuilt their careers, and found fulfillment on their own terms. Through open dialogue and introspection, participants will explore the role of allyship in dismantling exclusionary behaviors and creating an inclusive environment. By amplifying the voices of Women of Color, challenging biases, and fostering support and empowerment, we can cultivate workplaces where all women can thrive. Join us as we learn from these inspiring stories and embark on a collective journey to become effective allies, promoting equity and celebrating the contributions of Women of Color in the workforce.   

• Tuesday, 7 November, 2:00 – 3:00 PM (Sheraton 4) 
• Speakers:
  • (Moderator) Nikki Jones, Chief People and DE$I Officer, HBA
  • Roberta Duncan, VP, mRNA Program, CSL
  • Janet Franklin, VP, Global Development Biosimilars, Amgen
  • Jimi Okubanjo, Filmmaker, FolaJimi Worldwide
  • Charmi Patel, Director, Investor Relations Analytics, Bristol Myers Squibb
• Designed for: Leaders at all levels who are genuinely interested in advocating for women of the color in the workplace and want to develop skills to help them become effective allies.
• Conference track: Connectors

In this engaging session, explore how global corporate assignments can serve as a pathway to advance your career. Executives will share their experiences, delve into the unique opportunities and challenges associated with international assignments, discuss how you can position yourself to be considered for these opportunities, and offer strategies for maximizing success in these roles. Attendees will leave emboldened to expand their horizons, develop cross-cultural competencies, and leverage international experiences to accelerate their careers. 

• Tuesday, 7 November, 2:00 - 3:00 PM (Sheraton 5)
• Speakers:
  • Carina Kaiser, Senior Director, Global Commercial Strategy and Operations, Immunology, Sanofi
  • Jennifer Negron, Executive Director, Corporate Services, and Tampa Capability Center Site Lead/Global Chair WE2, Amgen
  • (Moderator) Sarah Seager, Senior Director, Analytics and AI, IQVIA
• Designed for: Leaders at all levels who are interested in pursuing global position and even those who might not have considered global positions but want to learn about the possibilities
• Conference track: Gamechangers

During this session, seasoned career coaches will delve into the pivotal role self-advocacy plays in shaping your career trajectory. Through interactive discussions and real-life examples, you will learn actionable strategies for mastering self-advocacy, including recognizing and effectively articulating your unique value proposition, skillfully negotiating for equitable compensation, strategically vying for high impact projects and assignments, and cultivating influential networks.  You will leave inspired to navigate your professional journey with intention and confidence.  

• Tuesday, 7 November, 2:00 - 3:00 PM (Sheraton 1 and 2)
• Speakers: 
  • Rochelle Cooper, CEO, Cooper Management Consulting
  • Nami (Nameeta) Jagtiani, CEO/Founder, The Mind Quotient
  • (Moderator) Allison Marshall, Group Director, Integrated Intelligence, Real Chemistry
• Designed for: Individual contributors and mid-level managers at any level who may find yourselves stuck in positions or with conditions that are not aligned with who you want to be and where you want to go.
• Conference track: Visionaries

Through engaging discussions and practical insights, you will learn how thought leadership can elevate your personal brand, expand your influence, and drive meaningful impact. Personal branding experts will delve into strategies for crafting compelling content, leveraging speaking engagements to amplify your message, and effectively engaging with your audience through social media platforms. By embracing thought leadership as a means of showcasing expertise and inspiring change, you will leave equipped with tools and inspiration to elevate your leadership profile and make a lasting impact in their industry.   

• Tuesday, 7 November, 2:00 - 3:00 PM (Sheraton 3)
• Speakers:
  • Janet Barker-Evans, EVP, Chief Creative Officer, AbelsonTaylor
  • Cynthia Isaac, PhD, Managing Director, Head, Corporate Communications Practice, Syneos Health
  • (Moderator) Lindsay Merkle, VP, Client Development and Experience, GoodRx
• Designed for: Leaders at all levels who want to elevate their visibility as thought leaders and competent leaders within the industry. It will offer strategies for those venturing into social media thought leadership for the first time, as well as to those who are already social media savvy.
• Conference track: Influencers

As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to revolutionize the healthcare industry, it is crucial to explore the responsible development and deployment of AI systems while addressing the potential biases that may arise. This plenary session brings together a panel of experts from clinical research, medical technology, IT, and biotechnology to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with AI in healthcare. The session aims to frame recommendations for leadership practices that promote ethical and unbiased AI integration in healthcare settings. 

• Wednesday, 8 November
• Speakers: 
  • Sharlene Jenner, VP, Engagement Strategy, AbelsonTaylor
  • Rajvir Madan, SVP and Chief Digital and Information Technology Officer, Arcutis Biotherapeutics, Inc.
  • Tonyka McKinney, DrPH, MPH, VP, Health Equity + Justice, Real Chemistry
  • Lanitia Ness, VP, Engineering, Syneos Health
  • Bob Pearson, Founder and Chair, The Next Practices Group, The Bliss Group, The Next Solutions Group
• Designed for: Leaders interested in a practical discussion about considerations for incorporating AI into your daily practice and how to navigate the opportunities and limitations. 
• Conference track: Gamechangers