The Courage to Forge New Paths
Having a true sense of belonging in the workplace is the catalyst to deeper engagement, greater contribution and more job satisfaction . And yet, often times, we find ourselves underrepresented in an environment that is not inclusive. Underrepresentation can show up in many forms, from being the only introvert on a team of extroverts or needing flexibility to caretake while others have the privilege of time.
As individual and as leaders, we must to forge new paths for inclusion where it doesn’t exist, and this takes courage.
This month, we invite a truly bold and courageous leader, Trace Ballard from the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), to share with us her journey as the first openly gay officer in the agency. From her journey, you will find inspiration and courage to forge new paths to inclusion in your workspace.
Join AWE for a bold and courageous conversation with Trace Ballard.
Spring Monthly Breakfast Sponsors
Meet Trace Ballard
Trace Ballard has been with the Central Intelligence Agency since 1985, serving multiple directorates and is currently serving as the LGBT Outreach Program Manager. Ms. Ballad was the first openly gay officer at the CIA, coming out to agency management and security in 1988, at a time when federal law precluded openly gay Americans from receiving or holding security clearances.
Ms. Ballard is the founder of the Agency Network of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Officers and Allies (ANGLE); and has been an advocate for workplace equity and inclusion for most of her career. She held the position of chair and/or co-chair for 20 years and now serves as an advisor to the ANGLE leadership team.
Meet Your Host - Kevin Matta
Kevin Matta, Director of Client Engagement & Inclusion at AWE (Advancing Workplace Excellence). Kevin is a diversity and inclusion practitioner and has over 15 years of service in the non-profit, healthcare, and financial industries. Kevin brings a focus on client success and human engagement to AWE through his dynamic background of roles, expertise and ability to make connections.
Kevin serves as chair and director of Diversity and Inclusion for Society for Humans Resources (SHRM) of Rhode Island, is on the board of directors for DAIP (Diversity and Inclusion Professionals), and supports the Women’s Fund of Rhode Island communications committee.
