Note: The media is welcome at this event from 9-10:30 a.m., and from Noon-3 p.m.
Lake Superior College (LSC), in partnership with the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce, will host the 2026 Equity & Inclusion Summit on Thursday, February 5, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on the Lake Superior College main campus.
This year’s theme, “The Power of Being Seen: Belonging in Every Experience,” will focus on how recognition, connection and inclusion shape workplaces and communities. The summit will explore how intentional actions can help create environments where people feel valued beyond the roles they hold.
Through storytelling, research and practical tools, participants will examine how individuals can become overlooked and how meaningful connection can restore a sense of belonging. The summit is designed for business leaders, nonprofit professionals, educators and community members seeking actionable insights to strengthen inclusion across organizations and communities.
The event will feature keynote speaker Chad Dull of Poverty Informed Practice LLC, along with sessions led by Carl Crawford of St. Louis County, winter adventurer Emily Ford, and Haley Hedstrom, executive director of Visit Duluth. The day will also include a fireside chat with Mason Branstrator and a Community for All panel moderated by LSC's Executive Diversity Officer Sarah Lyons.
In addition, breakfast and networking will be offered in the morning, followed by a buffet lunch provided by Oasis del Norte. Closing remarks will be delivered by Matt Baumgartner, president of the Duluth Area Chamber of Commerce.
Local college students with a valid student ID are welcome to attend at no cost. To inquire about scholarships, contact Aubrey Hagen at [email protected].
Event sponsors include Visit Duluth and The College of St. Scholastica.
