ACTION Summit

Thursday, October 30th | 8AM – 12:15 PM
Scouting America, 1191 Scout Dr, Sartell, MN 56377

Join us for the 3nd annual summit dedicated to fostering community and inclusion in the workplace.

Workplaces are changing, and so are expectations of employers. The Action Summit delivers real talk and actionable insights on purposeful leadership, building workplaces that are inclusive and compliant, what Gen Z wants from employers, and rethinking inclusion through a business lens.

This event is perfect for professionals in marketing, HR, management,and anyone looking to build a stronger, more inclusive workplace.

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AGENDA

8:00 a.m. – 8:15 a.m. – Welcome & Introductions, A Word from Sponsors

8:15 a.m. – 9:15 a.m. – Inclusive Leadership in Politicized Times: Staying Grounded – Shannon Watson, Majority in the Middle

9:20 a.m. – 10:20 a.m. – Legal & Practical: How to Stay Compliant and Competitive – Betsey Lund Ross, Revermann Lund Ross

10:20 a.m. – 10:35 a.m. – Break

10:35 a.m. – 11:35 a.m. – Gen Z Unfiltered: A Panel on Reaching, Recruiting and Retaining the Next Generation – Moderated by Ruthanne Kim, St. Cloud State University

11:35 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. – “BE”longing Fatigue: Pushing Forward in Resistant Environments – Jason Woods, St. Cloud State University

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SESSIONS

Inclusive Leadership in Politicized Times: Staying Grounded
Shannon Watson, Majority in the Middle

In an era where inclusion is both a value and a lightning rod, how do leaders stay grounded? Shannon Watson offers a timely and practical roadmap for navigating political, and cultural complexities of DEI work in 2026 and beyond. This session explores the paradoxes of protection, the shifting winds of public sentiment, and the principles that help leaders lead with clarity, courage, and consistency. Because in politicized times, inclusive leadership isn’t a risk—it’s a responsibility.

Legal & Practical: How to Stay Compliant and Competitive
Betsey Lund Ross, Revermann Lund Ross

Diversity remains a vital part of building strong, innovative, and successful workplaces. At the same time, recent federal actions have signaled a shift in how DEI efforts—especially in hiring, promotion, and evaluation—are being scrutinized under anti-discrimination laws. This session will explore how employers can continue to champion diversity in meaningful, legally sound ways that withstand evolving federal guidance. Attendees will learn how to align inclusive workplace values with current legal expectations.

Gen Z Unfiltered: A Panel on Reaching, Recruiting and Retaining the Next Generation
Moderated by Ruthanne Kim, St. Cloud State University

“BE”longing Fatigue: Pushing Forward in Resistant Environments
Jason Woods, St. Cloud State University

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SPEAKERS

Shannon Watson (she/her), Majority in the Middle
Shannon has more than 20 years of experience in policy, public affairs, and electoral politics, with roles at Casper Corcoran, Medical Alley Association, St. Paul Area Chamber, U.S. Bank, the Minnesota Senate, and the National Conference of State Legislatures. She has advised candidates and worked on campaigns across the political spectrum in Kansas, Colorado, and Minnesota. A frequent op-ed writer and speaker, she presents on topics such as bridging political divides and building bipartisan advocacy. Shannon is a Humphrey Policy Fellow, a 2022 MYALP cohort member, and has been recognized as an #MNCivicLeader and a MinneInno 50 On Fire honoree. She holds degrees from Wichita State University and the University of Minnesota-Duluth and lives in Minneapolis.

Betsey Lund Ross (she/her), Reverman Lund Ross (rlr)
Betsey Lund Ross is a dedicated attorney with a passion for advocating on behalf of her clients. She brings a wealth of experience in business and employment law, and estate planning, guiding clients through complex legal matters with clarity and compassion. Betsey is known for her meticulous attention to detail and her commitment to achieving favorable outcomes. She earned her J.D. from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and is a member of the Minnesota State and Stearns-Benton Bar Associations. Outside the office, Betsey enjoys volunteering in the community and spending time with her family.

Dr. Ruthanne Kim (she/her), St. Cloud State University
Dr. Ruthanne Kim is a Professor of Community Anti-Racism Education at St. Cloud State University. An interdisciplinary scholar and award-winning educator, her work focuses on feminist philosophy, critical race feminism, and decolonial theory. Dr. Kim holds a PhD from Vrije Universiteit and has published on topics including creolization, environmental justice, and kinship. She is known for her engaging teaching, community workshops, and advocacy for equity and inclusion.

Dr. Jason Woods (he/him), St. Cloud State University
Dr. Jason Woods is the Vice President for Strategic Enrollment Management at St. Cloud State University, with over 24 years of experience in higher education. He specializes in recruitment, retention, and leadership development, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Prior to SCSU, Dr. Woods held leadership roles at various institutions and co-founded the Intercultural Allies for Higher Education.

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SPONSORSHIP

Sponsorship of the ACTION Summit shows a commitment to building inclusion in the workplace and the business community. This year, event sponsorship is available for partner organizations at three levels.