FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Develop, Engage, and Inspire Conference Returns to Spark Ideas and Strengthen Communities

Cleveland, Ohio —August 12, 2025 –  FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  —  Engage! Cleveland is thrilled to announce the return of their highly anticipated Develop, Engage, Inspire Conference for the third consecutive year. After engaging attendees for two years in areas of workplace belonging and culture, Engage! Cleveland is excited to continue the conversation. 

This landmark conference is scheduled for Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at Stillwater Place at Cleveland Metroparks Zoo. This event will bring together an inspiring mix of thought leaders, industry experts, emerging professionals, and passionate advocates for a dynamic conversation on the vital role of workplace belonging in today’s rapidly changing world. It’s part of Engage! Cleveland’s ongoing commitment to attracting, engaging, and retaining diverse, emerging talent across Greater Cleveland and the surrounding region.

Attendees will experience a compelling program featuring diverse keynote speakers and interactive panel discussions that explore the many facets of workplace belonging. Together, attendees will examine its far-reaching influence on organizations, communities, and society as a whole. Participants will leave with practical strategies and fresh perspectives on fostering inclusive workplaces, breaking down systemic barriers, advancing equity, and building a more just and connected future.

“At Engage! Cleveland, we believe that when people develop their skills, engage with others, and inspire change, they help shape a stronger, brighter future. This conference is a place where ideas meet action, and where meaningful conversations lead to real progress,” said Ashley Basile Oeken, President at Engage! Cleveland.

Key topics to be explored during the conference will include:

• Belonging
• Inclusive Cultures
• Meaningful Action
• Workplace Norms
• Community Connection
• Representation
• Access

The conference aims to equip attendees with actionable takeaways, foster vibrant networking opportunities, and inspire a renewed commitment to advancing belonging both personally and professionally.

Engage! Cleveland is thrilled to partner with Playhouse Square to offer conference attendees an exclusive opportunity to extend their day with an evening performance of The Notebook on Wednesday, September 17 at 7:30 p.m.—marking the launch of its highly anticipated national tour. This groundbreaking production features intentional blind casting, delivering a powerful message that skill, passion, and talent—not appearance—should define opportunity.

Registration is open now. This event welcomes all with a specific emphasis on early to mid-career, and HR professionals. For more information about the conference, speakers, agenda, and registration details, please visit engagecleveland.org/developengageinspire-conference/

The 3rd Annual Develop, Engage, Inspire Conference is presented by Oatey Company with additional sponsorships from Oberlin College, Greater Cleveland Partnership, Union Home Mortgage, Cohen & Co., National Interstate Insurance, and Wellspring Financial Advisors.

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www.engagecleveland.org | 3135 Euclid Ave., Suite 103, Cleveland, OH 44115

About Engage! Cleveland

Engage! Cleveland is a community engagement organization for young professionals and business/community leaders who are passionate about making Cleveland a lasting home for the next generation. Our goal is to attract, engage and retain young, diverse talent to Greater Cleveland by connecting young professionals to people, jobs, organizations, and events. You can learn more at www.engagecleveland.org.