Tuesday, February 17, 2026 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm

The Black Ceiling: How Race Still Matters in the Elite Workplace – A Conversation with Kevin Woodson

Hosted by the Chicagoland Chamber Emerging Leaders Council

Join Emerging Leaders Chicago’s UNITY series for a fireside chat with sociologist and law professor Kevin Woodson, author of The Black Ceiling: How Race Still Matters in the Elite Workplace. Drawing on firsthand experience and interviews with more than 100 Black professionals, Woodson explores social alienation and stigma anxiety as the often-overlooked barrier to advancement in elite workplaces, and offers practical steps leaders and organizations can take to address it. This conversation will address keys to developing inclusive, high-performing teams by equipping emerging and established leaders with insights they can apply to culture, mentorship, and retention. Expect a candid dialogue, actionable takeaways, and the chance to connect with peers who are shaping the future of Chicago’s business community.

Every attendee will be given a complimentary copy of The Black Ceiling.

Moderator

Dorothia James

MRO Parts and Storeroom Strategy Manager, USCA | Ingredion

Featured Speaker

Kevin Woodson

Author of “The Black Ceiling: How Race Still Matters in the Elite Workplace” and Professor of Law at University of Richmond School of Law

Presenting Sponsor

UNITY Sponsor

Event Sponsor

Host Sponsor

Additional Information

Interested in joining the Chamber? Prospective members interested in joining, please contact [email protected].

In-Person Event

Registration is required for this event.

Register by February 10 to receive Early-Bird rate.

Early Bird Member

$25

Member

$35

Early Bird Non-Member

$40

Non-Member

$50

The Metropolitan
233 S. Wacker Dr, Floor 67
Chicago, IL, 60606