Keiser University’s Flagship Campus recently partnered with the Women of Color Automotive Network (WOCAN) to present a virtual discussion titled Unlock the Power of Diversity and Inclusion. Introduced by City of West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James, the event was led by Keiser University Automotive Dealership Management Program Director Brian Bastin, Graduate Psychology Program Director Dr. Aubrey Franklin, and WOCAN Cofounder Erikka Wells.

The presentation and discussion delved into the unique opportunities facing today’s automotive dealerships as well as the changing workforce and additional educational opportunities now available to minorities. “The benefits of a diversified workforce are apparent as a larger talent pool and better customer service emerge. However, women currently remain underrepresented in automotive retailing and it is even more egregious with women of color,” said Bastin, who shared insights relating to automotive industry hiring opportunities, selection, and retention of women of color, and professional education and development.

Among Dr. Franklin’s many insights was the concept that differences can be advantageous, and they originate both from personal opinions, backgrounds, and degrees of social and life experience as well as racial and economic disparities. “Inclusion involves bringing together and harnessing diverse forces in a way that benefits each and every one of us,” he said.

The Women of Color Automotive Network seeks to offer a safe and empowering space for women of color to share their experiences, find support in their careers and obtain resources relating to personal and leadership development.

The mission of Keiser University’s Automotive Dealership Management Program is to provide a quality overall education experience, which provides students with the skills necessary for success in employment, management, or ownership of today’s complex and changing automotive and vehicle retail distribution systems. With curriculum examining various disruptive factors influencing the automotive industry such as technological progress, consumer expectations, government regulation, and employee retention, the Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration degree program prepares students with the skills needed to become future industry leaders.

Keiser University is a private, not-for-profit university, serving nearly 20,000 students and employing 2,900 faculty and staff members. Co-founded in 1977 by Chancellor Arthur Keiser, Ph.D., and Evelyn Keiser, the university currently offers more than 100 degrees at 21 Florida campuses, as well as online and at two international sites. Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges as a level VI institution to award certificates and degrees at the associate, baccalaureate, masters, specialist, and doctoral levels. For additional information regarding Keiser University, visit http://www.keiseruniversity.edu.