26th Annual Rainbow PUSH Global Automotive Summit

Greetings,

The Rainbow PUSH Global Automotive Summit is more than just an industry gathering—it’s a catalyst for progress, innovation, and inclusion. By bringing together leaders, innovators, and visionaries from across the mobility ecosystem, this year’s Summit will spark conversations that drive new ideas and partnerships that ultimately expand economic opportunities for all. From advancing technology and strengthening supply chains to developing the workforce of tomorrow, the Global Automotive Summit is focused on creating a more connected and equitable future for the automotive industry. It’s not just about cars—it’s about people, progress, and the shared prosperity that comes when everyone has a seat at the table.

We are delighted to extend an invitation for you to join us at the 26th Annual Global Automotive Summit, taking place October 14–15, 2025, at the Motor City Casino Conference Center in Detroit, Michigan. This year’s theme, “Moving the Economic Needle Toward Opportunity,” will guide engaging discussions among industry leaders, experts, and innovators. Together, we will explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of automotive technology and manufacturing.

We look forward to welcoming you to this impactful event and to your valuable participation in shaping the next chapter of the global automotive industry.

For additional information, please visit automotiveproject.org.

AGENDA

EMERGING LEADER AWARDEES
Erica Bolden: Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & People Analytics – Mercedes-Benz USA
Sam Klemet: Executive Director – Detroit Auto Show and Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA)
Shaquata Locke: Manager Supplier Diversity – Volkswagen of America, Inc.
D’Juan Rudolph: Manager, Sustainable Development Division | Business & Community Engagement – Toyota Motor North America

LIVING LEGEND AWARDEES
William “Bill” Sherron: Owner – Vickburg Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram
Dr. Larry Smith: Chief Executive Officer – Diversity Vuteq
Linda Ware Smith: President/CEO – LWS Consulting (Retired from General Motors in 2016)

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Duane Parham – Renowned saxophonist

8:15 a.m. – 8:45 a.m.
ROOM: Salon A & B

HOST: Alvin Jones, Award-Winning Television Host

STATE OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: Dealerships
Damon Lester: Chairman – NAMAD

STATE OF THE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY: Ethnic Minorities and Vehicle Purchases
Marc Bland: Chief Diversity Officer – S & P Global Mobility

9:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
ROOM: MCC-3

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES PANEL
“Driving Growth: The Strategic Role of Professional Services in Automotive”
MODERATOR: Damon Autry: Writer

PANELISTS:
Lashan Green: Head of Talent Acquisition – Volkswagen Group of America
Kristie Hamilton: Global Director of Global Purchasing and Manufacturing Services Operations and Transformation – General Motors
Marvin Washington: Vice President of Global Purchasing & Supply Chain Management – Stellantis North America

10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
ROOM: Salon C

VICE PRESIDENTS OF GLOBAL PURCHASING PANEL
“Collaborative Partnerships: The Critical Role of Tier 1 and Tier 2 Suppliers”
MODERATOR: Ralph G. Moore: President – Ralph G. Moore & Associates
PANELISTS:
Ryan Grimm: Group Vice President, Purchasing Supplier Development – Toyota Motor North AmericaJeffrey Morrison: Vice President, Global Purchasing & Supply Chain – General Motors

12 noon – 1:15 p.m.
ROOM: Salon A & B

BUSINESS LUNCHEON & EDUCATION AWARD
(highlights of Business Luncheon; not an exhustive agenda)

HOST: Lauren Sanders, Media Specialist

Invocation: Rev. Tom McClain, SJ: (interim) President, Loyola High School

Welcome Remarks – John A. Graves: Chairman, Rainbow PUSH Automotive Project & Citizenship Education Fund

Scholarship Presentations
CVS – The Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Health Career Scholarships
General Motors – Keep Hope Alive Scholarships
Hyundai – Unlimited Possibilities Scholarships
Kia – Kia America Accelerate the Good Scholarships Program
Honda – The Rev. Jesse Jackson “Powering Dreams” Scholarships
Subaru – Subaru University Automotive Technician Scholarships (video)

Fireside Chat: Elizabeth Krear – President & CEO, Center for Automotive Research

1:45 p.m. – 2:45 p.m.
ROOM: MCC-2

AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN PANEL
“Developing Tomorrow’s Workforce: Meeting the Future Demand for Engineers & Skilled Auto Technicians”
MODERATOR: Damon Autry: Writer
PANELISTS:
Emanuel King: Senior Manager, Technical Training Program – Hyundai Motor America
Alex Shelton: Manager, Education for the Future of Work, Ford Philanthropy – Ford Motor Company
Fuquan Ahmed: Senior Vice Chancellor/Northwest Campus President – Wayne County Community College District

Host or Publisher Rainbow PUSH Automotive Project