For Immediate Release
October 13, 2025
Kari Dray
Director of Marketing and Corporate Giving
YWCA Rock County
P 608.752.5445 ext. 206 | [email protected]
Stand Up, Reach Out: Join Experts Dr. Rick Daniels and Vicki Clark at YWCA Rock County’s Racial Justice Conference
Janesville, Wisconsin – YWCA Rock County is proud to announce its 11th Annual Racial Justice Conference, held November 13–14, 2025. This two-day event includes a virtual half-day session on Thursday, Nov. 13 and a full-day in-person conference on Friday, Nov. 14 at Blackhawk Technical College.
The 2025 theme, “Stand Up, Reach Out – Is racism shaping my everyday life?”, invites attendees to reflect, engage, and take action toward racial equity and inclusion.
“This conference provides a vital space for learning, listening, and leading,” said Heidi Deininger, Executive Director of YWCA Rock County. “We are thrilled to welcome speakers who will inspire action and dialogue in our community.”
Keynote Speakers
Dr. Rick Daniels – Director of Human Resources for Institutional Equity and Inclusion at Oakton College, Dr. Daniels is an author, consultant, and podcast host specializing in equity-minded leadership and organizational design. He holds a Doctorate in Adult Education and Social Justice Administration and has collaborated with organizations such as Mayo Clinic and Hospitals Corporation of America.
Vicki Clark – Based in Memphis, Tennessee, Vicki is a servant leader and consultant with over 30 years’ experience in leadership development, diversity, equity, and antiracism. She has trained corporate, nonprofit, and government organizations and serves on several boards, including the National Diaper Bank. Community Leader Speakers
We are excited to hear from experts in our community, please join Judge Ashley Morse, Mr. Mark Holzman, Genia Stevens, Jennifer Esperanza, and Matt Gilhouse who will share their insight with us. The YMCA of North Rock County and the Stateline Family YMCA will conduct workshops centered around relaxation and mental wellness activities.
in-person conference on Friday, November 14 at Blackhawk Technical College offers an engaging, interactive experience with workshops, networking, and opportunities to collaborate on actionable solutions. Space is extremely limited, and seats are expected to fill quickly. Early bird pricing is available through October 20, 2025. Register now at: https://whova.com/portal/registration/EyaOPoEctikcVLS8b4ff/. Preview the agenda and conference: https://whova.com/web/v%40nGvKIVvHYN4dkHZ2iEmTSqfyxC03bQCCFjs91931w%3D/
Dorothy Height Racial Justice Award Nominations:
YWCA Rock County is currently accepting nominations for the Dorothy Height Racial Justice Award, which honors a local individual or organization demonstrating outstanding commitment to advancing racial justice and equity.
Nominations are open through October 16, 2025, at https://www.ywcarockcounty.org/dorothy-height-award
For more information, please contact Heidi Deininger, Executive Director at [email protected].
About YWCA Rock County
YWCA Rock County is a not-for-profit organization serving the needs of women and children in our communities. Its key focus areas include eliminating violence in our homes and neighborhoods, racial justice, economic empowerment, advocacy and community services. The YWCA is dedicated to eliminating racism, empowering women and promoting peace, justice, freedom and dignity for all.