Commissioner Murman mentioned in this Tampa Bay Times article on Lunch and Learn event:

Learn to diversify your workforce at Aug. 25 Lunch and Learn

Wednesday, August 17, 2016 6:13pm

The Diversity Initiative and TPepin’s Hospitality Centre, 4121 N 50th St., will host the inaugural “Diversity and Inclusion in the Workforce” Lunch and Learn from noon to 1 p.m. Thursday.

This joint event is designed to educate attendees including business owners, human resources professionals and hiring managers from small to large companies about the value, productivity and profitability disabled individuals bring to organizations.

Job seekers with disabilities, whether they are interested in part-time or full-time jobs, represent one of the largest and most under-utilized talent pools in the Tampa Bay area. Employers who attend the event can expect to receive insight about strategies to successfully recruit, train and develop diverse talent.

“Promoting hiring practices that diversify the work place are crucial to the success of any business’ recruitment and retention efforts,” said John Pribanic, TDI president and CEO. “We are thrilled to have so many community and business leaders from across the Tampa Bay area join us to further facilitate greater inclusion and diversity in organizations throughout the region.”

Hillsborough County Commissioner Sandra Murman will serve as the master of ceremonies. Richard Gonzmart, the fourth generation president of Columbia Restaurant Group, will deliver the keynote.

Gonzmart has a personal connection to this topic as he struggled throughout school only to discover years later he suffered from ADHD and dyslexia, which he now considers an advantage because it helps him think differently.

Attendees will also hear from Allen Anderson, an international expert in customized employment, and Vanessa Rodriguez, vice president of The Diversity Initiative.

RSVP at tdi-lunch-and-learn.eventbrite.com or fax registration to (813) 443-0728.

To learn more about the hosts, Diversity Initaitve Inc., visit, tdiworks.org and TPepin’s Hospitality Centre, tpepins hospitalitycentre.com.