My First #PolicySummit2025: A Seat at the Table, A Voice in the Room

Before attending #PolicySummit2025, I’ll admit I didn’t fully understand how the Federal Reserve supported communities like mine. I knew it played a role in the economy, but the tangible connections to workforce development, education, and equity weren’t clear to me until now.

Just one week before the summit, I was honored with an invitation to join a Fed Listens session with none other than Federal Reserve Board Governor Lisa D. Cook. The theme of the session, "Building Strong and Sustainable Communities," resonated deeply with my mission at Dreamwork Ohio. What struck me most was the intentionality. The Federal Reserve wanted to hear from a diverse range of community voices, not just policymakers, but grassroots leaders. That alone said a lot.

I was nervous. Who wouldn’t be? But I was also energized. This was a chance to share not just my voice, but the lived experiences of the people and communities we serve every day.

The #PolicySummit2025 itself, hosted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland, was truly impactful.

From the visual aesthetics to the insightful panels and breakout sessions, everything was thoughtfully curated to foster learning, conversation, and action. Networking felt organic and purposeful. And yes, the food was great too.

One of the most talked-about topics was AI and the Future of Work. Concerns around AI’s potential to exclude job seekers through resume filters or even replace roles entirely were front and center. While some questions remain unanswered, it was encouraging to see institutions like Tri-C and others leading the way in using AI not to displace, but to empower. They are finding ways to enhance student support and improve operations.

Another standout moment for me was the session, "How to Ask Better Questions to Enhance Research, Policymaking, and Community Empowerment." Through the Question Formulation Technique (QFT), we explored a hands-on, repeatable method for asking sharper, more impactful questions. It reminded me how essential inquiry is to creating real, community-rooted solutions.

This was my first Policy Summit, but it certainly won’t be my last.

I left feeling more informed, inspired, and connected. Most importantly, I left knowing that the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland truly values collaboration with community leaders. I look forward to building stronger ties with the CFRB and continuing this important dialogue.

Our voices matter. When we come together, we can build the strong and sustainable communities we all deserve. #supportedemploymentsconsulting#SupportedEmployment #CareerCoaching #DisabilityEmployment #ClevelandOhio #YouthEmployment #IPSModel #WorkforceDevelopment #SocialImpactAgency #OpportunityForAll #DreamworkOhio