TRENTON, N.J. — The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey’s (AACCNJ) Mobile Academy showcased its commitment to fostering collaboration and understanding within the business community with a successful event on Jan. 23 at Middlesex College.
The evening, themed “Can We Talk: What Do You Really Know About Generational Diversity?” unfolded as a multifaceted experience, beginning with a dynamic networking segment and light refreshments.
The networking session provided a unique opportunity for attendees to not only exchange business cards but also to share experiences and insights. Entrepreneurs, executives, and professionals from various sectors engaged in conversations that transcended generational gaps, setting the stage for an enriching and inclusive panel discussion.
The Mobile Academy, known for its innovative approach to education and empowerment, curated a diverse panel of experts, each representing a different generation. Gene Bouie, a seasoned leader and Executive Director of AACCNJ’s Training and Development Institute, brought a wealth of experience as the Baby Boomer representative. Stacey Kavanagh, First Vice President and Market Manager at Provident Bank shared her insights as a representative of Generation X. Kyle Holder, Vice President at Optimus Partners, LLC, offered perspectives from the Millennial generation. Desiree Mitchell, a student at New York University, brought a fresh perspective as the Generation Z representative.
Dr. Kinna Perry, an accomplished scholar and Associate Dean at Rutgers Graduate School-Newark, delivered a keynote address that transcended the theoretical, offering practical insights into the day-to-day implications of generational diversity. Dr. Perry’s presentation explored how each generation’s unique values, communication styles, and attitudes toward work impact our daily lives, from the office to our interactions in society at large.
The heart of the evening unfolded with a moderated panel discussion with Perry expertly navigating the complexities and commonalities that define each generation. The audience actively participated in a robust Q&A session, providing a platform for direct engagement with the panelists.
This exchange facilitated a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities that arise when working across generational lines.
John E. Harmon Sr., IOM, Founder, President and CEO of AACCNJ, delivered closing remarks, expressing his gratitude for the engaged audience and reinforcing the organization’s commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. Harmon highlighted the pivotal role events like “Can We Talk” play in fostering a more cohesive and supportive business community.
About the African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey
The AACCNJ performs an essential role in the economic viability of New Jersey. While providing a platform for New Jersey’s African American business leaders, to speak with a collective voice, the AACCNJ advocates and promotes economic diversity fostering a climate of business growth through major initiatives centering on education and public policy. The Chamber serves as a proactive advocacy group with a 501(c) 3 tax exemption, which is shared by the National Black Chamber of Commerce.