Empowering Voices: Highlights from Clearcover's African American Network Panel

Written by Ally Chavez | March 18th, 2024

At Clearcover, we're all about fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. That's why we believe in the power of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) to inspire our employees through candid conversations. Recently, our Clearcover African American Network (CAAN) hosted a panel discussion centered around unique experiences and connections to Black History Month.

The event was led by Candi Nichols, Claims Supervisor I and a CAAN leader, who got us ready for an exciting discussion with a warm welcome soundtracked by India Arie’s ‘What If.’ 

The first panel speaker, Derek Brigham, our COO and Co-founder, touched our hearts with the story of his daughter's adoption from Ethiopia and how his family worked to create an inclusive environment for her.

Dee Robinson, a Senior Underwriting Agent, shared her experiences as a Black woman in Detroit and her thoughts about how ERGs cultivate productive, meaningful connections and conversations.

 Beth Volious, a Recovery Specialist, told us about her marriage to a Black man and raising empowered daughters. 

Lastly, Brandon Bazile, our Senior Account Manager, took us back to his childhood, sharing the valuable lessons he learned from his grandma at work. 

We had such an amazing lineup of panelists who shared their incredible experiences.

After the panel, we added some fun to the mix with a trivia game focused on this year's Black History Month theme, "African Americans and the Arts". It was a great way to test our knowledge and celebrate the contributions of African Americans to the arts.

To wrap up the celebration, Jerrell West, Founder of CAAN and Director of Claims, Shared Services, treated us to a powerful poem by Langston Hughes. He beautifully explained the poem's connection to Black History Month, leaving us feeling inspired and grateful.

At Clearcover, we recognize the importance of events like this in fostering a truly diverse and inclusive workplace culture. We extend our gratitude to our ERGs and their dedicated leaders for organizing these incredible events. We're excited to continue learning and celebrating together as a team.