Ilitch Organization Announces Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force

After Chris Ilitch joined with Mayor Mike Duggan, Rev. Wendell Anthony and eight other prominent Detroit business leaders to publicly speak out against racism and injustice, the Ilitch organization has announced the formation of a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Task Force. The 12-member task force, comprised of employees representing the Ilitch family of companies, will be actively exploring policies, programs and practices related to diversity and inclusion issues.  

The formation of the task force was preceded by a series of listening sessions with employees that were conducted by leaders throughout the Ilitch companies.  

Over the years, the Ilitch companies have engaged in various diversity and inclusion efforts, including employee training, internships, community outreach efforts, as well as programs with professional sports leagues, fans, athletes, and the community.  The Ilitch companies value the importance of continuous improvement, and the creation of this task force is consistent with that organizational belief and culture.

The task force will be led by Danielle Lester, Senior Legal Counsel, Little Caesars, and will commence immediately.  Danielle received her Bachelor of Arts Degree from the University of Michigan, her J.D. from the University of Maryland School of Law and her Master of Business Administration from Michigan State University – The Eli Broad School of Management.  

“Along with my fellow colleagues, I look forward to serving on this task force,” said Lester.  “Our companies recognize the value and benefits of diversity and inclusion and aspire to continuously advance these very important areas that impact our colleagues and community.”  

Other task force members include Geana Kay-Nash, Little Caesars Vice President Customer & IT System Support; Brian Pattison, Little Caesars National Vice President Franchise Services; Nancy Amenero, Little Caesars Market Director West Regional Operations; Paola Remus, Little Caesars Market Director Southwest Regional Operations; Brett Yates, Little Caesars Vice President of Human Resources; Michele Bartos, Sports & Entertainment Vice President of Human Resources; Ellen Hill Zeringue, Sports & Entertainment Vice President Marketing; Rian Barnhill, Olympia Development Vice President of Government and Community Affairs; Piki Ghosh, Champion Foods Quality and Sanitation Manager; Jacci Woods, MotorCity Casino Hotel Vice President of Public Relations and Community Affairs; and David Turner, MotorCity Casino Hotel Vice President of Human Resources.

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