The Gala reflects a kaleidoscope of cultures, talents, and abilities, sending a powerful message that every individual is a star in their own right. Step right up to a grand celebration of diversity! This extraordinary event is a dazzling fusion of the enchanting world of "The Greatest Showman" and the vibrant spirit of diversity. Guests will be transported into a realm where individuality takes center stage. We encourage you to embrace your true selves and identities.
Join us under the glittering lights of this celebration, where the circus meets celebration, and love for oneself and others takes center stage. It's a night to remember, where the extraordinary becomes the norm, and acceptance is the greatest show of all.
During our 2024 Excellence in Supplier Diversity Awards Gala & Fundraiser, “This is Me: A Grand Celebration of Diversity,” join us as we honor the inspiring deeds of our MBEs, Corporate Members, and Partners who made deep impressions in 2023. The winners of our Excellence in Supplier Diversity Awards competition will be announced LIVE at the event.
We support the growth and welfare of minority communities by championing the use of minority-owned businesses in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawai‘i.
All times listed are in Pacific Daylight Time and activities may change
| 6:00 P.M. | ⭐ Check-In & Reception ⭐ Food Stations ⭐ Live DJ ⭐ Networking |
| 8:00 P.M. | ⭐ Awards Show Master of Ceremonies
Donna Ruff
President/CEO
WRMSDC
 Master of Ceremonies
Christine Maddela
Managing Partner/Owner
Storyville Road
 Master of Ceremonies
Roger Cheng
Sr. Supplier Diversity Sourcing Manager
AT&T
 Headliner
Charis Garcia
Client Relationship & Business Development Manager
Diversified Protection Corporation
 MBEIC Chair
Gerald Johnson
Principal & MBEIC Chair
Sabacon Consulting
 Michael Balistreri
Vice President, Strategic Accounts Services and Law
Robert Half Inc.
 Shabana Siraj
Founder & CEO
Trident Consulting
 Florence McCrary
Director
Gilead
 Debbie Marrs
Vice President, Enterprise Accounts
AMN Healthcare
 Brian de Jong
Senior Vice President - Enterprise Strategic Client Solutions
AMN Healthcare
 Lili Kwan
Senior Manager, Racial Equality and Justice Taskforce - Purchasing
Salesforce
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| 9:45 P.M. | ⭐ Afterparty ⭐ Late Night Snacks & Desserts ⭐ Dancing ⭐ Networking |
| 11:00 P.M. | ⭐ Gala Ends |
Sheryl Grant is a transformational leader and catalyst at the intersection of three of the most significant US economic, cultural and social trends; the economic power of the Baby Boomers, the rise of women of color executives and entrepreneurs, and the rapidly growing interest in health, wellness and longevity. Globally recognized for her tenured success as a 30+ year Silicon Valley veteran and revered for sharing her inspiring journey to Ms. Olympia fitness at age 57, Sheryl consistently seeks to elevate all stakeholders aiming to scale their impact globally.
Sheryl is the architect and creator of FIT for Life (Faith Intuition and Tenacity) which includes programming, content and resources dedicated to helping all women, particularly women of color, to break through self-imposed barriers and limitations to achieve success in career, business, life and beyond! Tens of thousands have experienced the impact of her mentorship and tens of millions have been inspired by her journey.
With her goal to reach 50 million individuals globally and unwavering commitment to physical health and mental wellness, Ms. Grant has become a leading AgeTech advocate, resource for ambitious individuals and global advocate for innovative brands seeking empower those who want to live their best, abundant and healthiest lives.
Sheryl also holds her Masters in Leadership from St. Marys College.
Prepare to be transported to an electrifying arena where rhythm reigns supreme and every movement pulses with passion! Hold onto your seat as the CA team Electric Elegance battles the NV team Boogie Brigade, showcasing their mastery of movement and unparalleled creativity, all to raise funds to further WRMSDC's mission of impacting communities of color.
As you step into our enchanting gala, prepare to be greeted with a glass of bubbly served by our elegant champagne dress hostess, setting the tone for an evening of glamour and celebration! 
Visit our caricature station and let the show begin! We're offering you the chance to have your portrait transformed into a one-of-a-kind "masterpiece". Our talented caricature artist will be ready to capture your essence with a twist! NOTE: only limited slots available due to time constraints! Get to the Gala early to be one of the first in line. 
Prepare to be mesmerized as an LED-lit hula-hoop artist dazzles with performances right on the dance floor, adding a touch of magic to our grand celebration of diversity! Be sure to take photos for your own social media!
Take center stage on the 360 Spinner. Either alone or as a group, you’ll be able to create your very own 360 degree slow-motion video, GIF or boomerang, all with a touch of that Hollywood glitz and glamor!
Experience a completely unique photo experience! Get your group together (or do it solo) and get your boomerang picture done right on the spot!
| Regular Check-In | All guests without Fast Track should stand in the registration line and check-in by Last Name. | ||||||
| Fast Track | You will be notified BEFORE the Gala if you have Fast Track Check-In. For all guests with Fast Track check-in, skip standing in line! Instead, go straight to the front door to the table with “Fast Track Check-In.” The following guests have Fast Track Check-In:
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| Weather | The Awards Gala will be held entirely indoors. Weather reports forecast May 10th will be 82 degrees and a low of 57 degrees. Plan your attire accordingly. | ||||||
| Parking | There is gated parking located in the back of The Oakland Scottish Rite Center (on Madison Street), with limited parking spots on a first-come, first-served basis. PUBLIC PARKING LOT ($10 fee) If the venue parking lot is full, there is a 24-hour parking garage located right next to the venue parking lot at 1506 Madison St - Parking Garage Pre-Pay and reserve a parking space in the public garage! Click Here
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| Security | Security at the Awards Gala is thorough and comprehensive. Armed guards, comprising former law enforcement and military personnel, will patrol the venue's exterior and assist guests from 5:00 PM to midnight. Additional guards will monitor the interior. Surveillance cameras cover both indoor and outdoor areas, with constant monitoring from a central "watch tower" for enhanced safety and coordination among guards. | ||||||
| Stole Designations | Upon Check In, a select group of hand-picked guests will receive a stole. Stoles are optional only—they are not required to be worn. The color key below will be used to identify our important guests:
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| Coat Check | Complimentary coat check service will be available. | ||||||
| MBE Ambassadors | If you are new to the WRMSDC community and coming to the Gala, please be sure to seek out our fantastic MBE Ambassadors Ashwini Vasudeva, Astute, Christine Maddela, Storyville RD, and Janet Miller-Evans, Entevos LLC., who will be present at the event to show you around and help break the ice for you. They will be at the Gala entrance & foyer area welcoming you and others new to the community, so please be sure to find them. Our MBE Ambassadors will be wearing a red stole (see below) so they will be easily identifiable. |
Please contact sheena@wrmsdc.org if you have access questions or require accommodations to comfortably participate in the Gala. During the registration process, we ask each attendee for any accommodations they may need, including materials provided in formats like large print, text-only, electronic files, etc.; communication aids like American Sign Language (ASL) interpreting, other interpreting, etc.; and other needs.
Step right up, ladies and gentlemen, because this year we’re rolling out the red carpet with all the pizzazz and dazzle of the hit movie, "The Greatest Showman"! Come dressed to impress in your unique flair, just like the colorful characters on the big screen; Victorian-inspired fashion with a modern twist, featuring bold colors, luxurious fabrics, intricate detailing, and a touch of whimsy. It's not just a Gala, it's a WRMSDC extravaganza where your style steals the show!
(The bar will close during the Awards show from 8:00 PM – 9:45 PM)
(Served from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
(Served from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
(Served from 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM)
(Served from 9:45 PM – 11:00 PM)
WRMSDC supports the growth and welfare of minority communities by championing the use of minority-owned businesses in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawai‘i. Our parent organization, the National Minority Supplier Development Council, helps over 12,000 minority businesses connect with major Fortune 500 corporations and their buyers every year. Please visit us online at www.wrmsdc.org.
Please contact sheena@wrmsdc.org for questions about the event.
