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Columbus Chamber of Commerce Foundation Hosts a Big Table to Discuss Future of Workplace Diversity

October 16th, 2024

The Columbus Chamber of Commerce (Columbus Chamber) was honored to participate in The Big Table, The Columbus Foundation’s series of citywide discussions dedicated to a more kind and just future for the central Ohio region. Our table explored “The Future of Workplace Diversity.” With Columbus set to become a majority-minority city by 2030, the event brought together community leaders, business professionals, and local residents to discuss how to navigate and thrive in an evolving job market.

The gathering provided a platform for participants to engage in open conversations about the unique challenges and opportunities that a more diverse workforce will bring to the Columbus economy. Discussion topics included innovative strategies to promote inclusivity, how to foster diverse talent, and ways to remain competitive as Columbus grows into a more culturally diverse hub.

“Our community’s strength lies in its diversity,” said Catrena Cannon, VP of Diversity, Culture, and Inclusion at the Columbus Chamber of Commerce. “As we prepare for a demographic shift, it’s crucial that businesses, community organizations, and individuals work together to create an inclusive environment that allows everyone to thrive. The Big Table is one of many steps we’re taking to build a workforce that reflects our city’s dynamic future.”

Participants walked away from the event with actionable insights and a renewed commitment to making Columbus a model for inclusive growth. The Columbus Chamber and the Columbus Chamber Foundation look forward to building on the momentum of The Big Table with more initiatives to equip the community for the city’s projected growth.

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About The Columbus Chamber of Commerce: The Columbus Chamber of Commerce is a mission-driven nonprofit organization that serves more than 2,300 organizations. Founded in 1884, the Columbus Chamber is dedicated to fostering prosperity and growth in the Columbus Region Business Community through connections, resources, and advocacy. Serving as the epicenter of the Columbus Region’s business community, the Columbus Chamber provides an interconnected ecosystem where businesses collaborate to eliminate barriers to prosperity, creating a vibrant environment for enterprises throughout the Columbus Region. Together, we make our region an exceptional business destination. Learn more: https://columbus.org/.


About The Columbus Chamber of Commerce Foundation: The Columbus Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s goal is to remove barriers to prosperity and growth in the Columbus Region business community through strong relationships and purposeful inclusion. Learn more: www.columbuschamberfoundation.org.  


For more information, contact:
Catrena S. Cannon MBA, CDP
VP of Diversity, Culture, and Inclusion
COLUMBUS CHAMBER
150 South Front St. | Suite 220 | Columbus, OH |43215
www.columbus.org
C: (614) 254.4513
T: (614) 225.6064
catrenacannon@columbus.org