McCeil Johnson and Doris Savron to present on social capital and driving successful DEI initiatives

University of Phoenix proudly presents its distinguished leaders as featured speakers at the Greater Phoenix Chamber's quarterly Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Forum. University of Phoenix Vice President, Accreditation & Regulatory Compliance, McCeil Johnson, along with Vice Provost for Colleges, Assessment, and Curriculum, Doris Savron will be speaking about the importance of social capital in diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. The event, titled "Social Capital: The Unseen Asset in Driving Successful DEI Initiatives," is scheduled to take place virtually on Thursday, February 29th, from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. MST via Zoom.

"We are thrilled to have Doris Savron and McCeil Johnson from the University of Phoenix as our speakers for this significant DEI Forum," said Todd Sanders, President and CEO of the Greater Phoenix Chamber. "Their understanding of the impact of social capital on diversity and inclusion efforts aligns perfectly with the goals of our forum, and we anticipate an enlightening and impactful session."

The session will focus on practical strategies to build and leverage social networks within organizations, fostering a more inclusive culture and enhancing DEI outcomes. Following the presentation, there will be a live Q&A session facilitated by members of the Chamber's DEI Committee. The session is a natural extension of the University’s commitment to research and examine the role social capital plays in career mobility.

"In the realm of higher education, accreditation and regulatory compliance underpin the delivery of a high-quality education but also influence the accessibility of education for all,” shares Johnson. “Our commitment at University of Phoenix extends beyond mere compliance – we view it as a gateway to fostering equitable access and support for students. Our work with Jobs for the Future’s Center for Racial Economic Equity on building professional social capital is a great example of our robust commitment to building access and support for all students. We look forward to this forum and the opportunity for participants to delve into social capital, organizational networks, and the transformative power they hold in ensuring an inclusive educational landscape for every student."

Savron agrees that the event provides an opportunity to both examine shifting workforce dynamics and build skills that are valuable in today’s workplace. “As we engage in this collaborative event with the Greater Phoenix Chamber, we appreciate the pivotal role they play in shaping a diverse and inclusive professional landscape,” she shares. “University of Phoenix is honored to contribute to the discourse on social capital. Our shared commitment to building skills aligns seamlessly with the Chamber's mission, emphasizing the importance of not only providing education but equipping individuals with the skills necessary for success in an evolving workforce.”

In her current role as University of Phoenix’s vice president, Accreditation & Regulatory Compliance, Johnson provides leadership and management for the University’s institutional and college-specific accreditation and regulatory initiatives, including institutional, programmatic, state boards, and other regulatory functions. Hailing from Des Moines, Iowa, Johnson completed her education at the University of Iowa, where she earned a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree and completed her Juris Doctorate at the University of Iowa College of Law.

Johnson is active in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging work, and is recognized as a leader and subject matter expert speaker. She was appointed in fall 2021 to the University of Iowa College of Law Alumni Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Council, and this fall was elected to serve as Vice Chair of the Council. Johnson has been serving as a speaker on the Women in Automotive circuit since March 2021, giving presentations and guidance on how women can empower themselves and their voices in a male-dominated industry.

Committed to professional integrity and growth, Johnson is a member of numerous professional associations in addition to UPCEA, including Association of Title IX Administrators (ATIXA); Council on Higher Education (CHEA); Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE); University Risk Management and Insurance Association (URMIA); Higher Learning Commission, Peer Review Corps (HLC Peer Reviewer); and the Online Learning Consortium (OLC).

In her capacity as Vice Provost for Colleges, Assessment, and Curriculum, Savron oversees the strategy for University of Phoenix academic programs, curriculum design, institutional assessment, and faculty. Her extensive career at the University includes roles such as associate faculty, campus vice president, regional vice president of student services, and college operations.

Savron is a first-generation college graduate who understands the transformative power of education. She is passionate about supporting older adult students in navigating their life responsibilities while earning their degrees. She recently completed a six-year term at the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and serves on committees like the DEI professionals committee for the Chamber. She served on the advisory council for UPCEA and AACRAO’s new Convergence Conference in 2023 focused on the emerging field of alternative credentials in Higher Education.

As a recognized expert in curriculum design and micro-credentialing, Savron is often sought out as a speaker. Her advocacy for women in leadership extends to international projects in India, Zambia, and the U.S., supporting women to achieve their potential in their professions.

Learn more about the event, or register, here.

About the Greater Phoenix Chamber

Representing 2,400 businesses across the Greater Phoenix region, the Greater Phoenix Chamber promotes regional prosperity by serving as a catalyst for economic vitality and strong communities. The Chamber pursues this mission by collaborating with business, political, and community leaders to grow the regional talent pool, create a regional approach to economic development, and drive a pro-Arizona agenda. www.phoenixchamber.com

About University of Phoenix

University of Phoenix innovates to help working adults enhance their careers and develop skills in a rapidly changing world. Flexible schedules, relevant courses, interactive learning, skills-mapped curriculum for our bachelor’s and master’s degree programs and a Career Services for Life® commitment help students more effectively pursue career and personal aspirations while balancing their busy lives. For more information, visit phoenix.edu.

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