Dr. Michael Baran is the CEO of Iris Inclusion, a global diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) firm. Dr. Baran draws on his own social science research to inform his DEI speaking engagements, writings, consulting, leadership development, and eLearning. After teaching at Harvard University, he has been supporting DEI in organizations for 20 years. His work has been covered in the New York Times, BBC, Forbes, CNN, NPR, and more.

His recent book, Subtle Acts of Exclusion, was named by Forbes as one of “The 11 Books To Read To Be A More Inclusive Leader” and has won several awards.

Barbara Aloni joined The Standard in 2002 and has over 27 years of experience in group disability insurance. In her current role as Workplace Possibilities Program Director, she champions the administration of The Standard’s Workplace Possibilities Program and ADAAA Accommodation Services while leading a team of consultants who implement and manage these solutions for employers. Beyond her insurance experience, Barbara has worked for a non-profit organization and in human resources. Barbara graduated from Tufts University with a BA in social psychology, holds an MS Ed. in counseling from Fordham University and is a Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS).

Barbara Aloni joined The Standard in 2002 and has over 27 years of experience in group disability insurance. In her current role as Workplace Possibilities Program Director, she champions the administration of The Standard’s Workplace Possibilities Program and ADAAA Accommodation Services while leading a team of consultants who implement and manage these solutions for employers. Beyond her insurance experience, Barbara has worked for a non-profit organization and in human resources. Barbara graduated from Tufts University with a BA in social psychology, holds an MS Ed. in counseling from Fordham University and is a Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS).

Michael Walters is the CHRO for Samsung Semiconductor, a multi-billion dollar provider of leading edge memory solutions and chip manufacturer that powers the critical industries such as smartphones, electric vehicles, and hyperscale datacenters.  He leads all talent related functions for this business and oversees their community relations initiatives.  Michael has served in HR leadership roles in a wide variety of industries to include United Health Group, Microsoft, Roper Technologies, and Nielsen Entertainment

Michael has taught HR management at the University of Washington for twelve years and is a frequent speaker at SHRM events across the country. He holds an MBA with a concentration in Human Resources Management from Loyola Marymount University and a bachelor's in psychology from University of California, Los Angeles. 

Michael Walters is the CHRO for Samsung Semiconductor, a multi-billion dollar provider of leading edge memory solutions and chip manufacturer that powers the critical industries such as smartphones, electric vehicles, and hyperscale datacenters.  He leads all talent related functions for this business and oversees their community relations initiatives.  Michael has served in HR leadership roles in a wide variety of industries to include United Health Group, Microsoft, Roper Technologies, and Nielsen Entertainment

Michael has taught HR management at the University of Washington for twelve years and is a frequent speaker at SHRM events across the country. He holds an MBA with a concentration in Human Resources Management from Loyola Marymount University and a bachelor's in psychology from University of California, Los Angeles. 

Chad Sorenson relies on his 30 years of business and HR experience and 14 years on non-profit boards to develop tailored programs for businesses in industries ranging from healthcare and manufacturing to non-profits. Adaptive HR Solutions, founded by Chad in 2008, offers consulting services, leadership development, training programs, keynote addresses, and HR audits.

Chad served as the 2021-2022 President of the HR Florida State Council and President of SHRM Jacksonville in 2015 and 2016. His keys to success are Devotion to God, Dedication to Family, Continuous Service, Lifetime Learning, and Always Remembering to Laugh.

Anthony an attorney that helps employers with legal issues affecting the workplace, including matters concerning the rapidly evolving subject of employee privacy. In particular, he assists employers with compliance with a variety of privacy laws, including the California Consumer Privacy Act. When providing guidance to clients related to legal issues concerning electronic employment data, Anthony draws on his prior professional experience as a software engineer. Anthony is a member of Fisher Phillips’ Privacy and Cyber Practice Group. He also frequently presents and authors articles on topics related to employment and privacy laws.

Joseph Grenny is a New York Times bestselling author of eight books, including the communication classic, Crucial Conversations. His whose work has been used by nearly half of the Forbes Global 2000 and has helped millions of people achieve better relationships and results. He cofounded Crucial Learning, one of the world’s most respected learning and organization development firms, offering courses in communication, performance, and leadership.