Diversity Conference

Diversity, Equality, Education

Keynote Speakers

Joe Torrillo: 9:00 a.m.

Buried alive twice from the collapse of the Twin Towers on September 11, 2001, the smart, funny, and now retired FDNY Lieutenant Joe Torrillo, shares his amazing stories and strong messages that attendees will never forget. Joe travels the world with a quest to make our country the “Re–United States of America,” resurrecting patriotism, trumpeting the men and women of the Armed Services, mentoring adolescents, and inspiring audiences of all sizes to embrace change and never give up on their dreams.

9/11 was a day where the people of the United States came together as one, a day where “black people;” were helping “white people,” and “white people” were helping “black people.” It was a day where the color of one's skin truly didn't matter. Take a look at this video to learn more about Joe, and join us for a remarkable message that you won't want to miss!

Nicole Kelly: 12:45 p.m.

Miss Iowa 2013 Nicole Kelly was born without her left forearm. As Nicole grew older, she learned to offset the initial stares with an outgoing personality, and she found her passion within a world where she gave people permission to stare — the stage!

Theatre became not only her outlet but her chosen career path. Nicole graduated from the Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film at the University of Nebraska in May 2012. She spent her summers working in Massachusetts at the Williamstown Theatre Festival and in New Mexico at the Santa Fe Opera.

Nicole's mission is to empower those who feel different to achieve their goals and exceed limitations. It is also her passion to reach out to people of all ages and help them understand their unique ability (not “disability”) to live fully, give completely, and seize every opportunity. She hopes to inspire anyone who feels different in some way and to look past what others may consider limitations to prove that through hard work and dedication, anything is possible! You can get a sneak peek of Nicole and her amazing story by watching this video.

Diversity Conference Schedule

Check back for the full conference schedule.