Impact presents a panel on the role and responsibility of Georgia Tech to promote equitable and inclusive community partnerships. The panelists include James “Jay” Bailey, Leah LaRue, and Rachel Sprecher, and the discussion will be moderated by Tech's Chris Burke, Executive Director of Community Relations.

Jay serves as President and CEO of the Russell Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (RCIE). Honoring the great legacy and visionary business leadership of Herman J. Russell, Sr., he leads the development of the largest center in America dedicated to empowering Black entrepreneurs and small business owners. An Atlanta native and die-hard Georgia Bulldog he has been recognized by 3 U.S. Presidents for his leadership and community efforts, proof that he is committed to living by his personal motto, “Build As We Climb”.

Leah is a community leader and public servant currently working as the Assistant Director of the Neighborhood Planning Units (NPUs) in the City of Atlanta. She is an active member and former president of her neighborhood association and through her work has created and implemented strategies promoting increased neighborhood engagement and civic participation. Through her support and training to neighborhood leaders she fiercely advocates for activities involving and empowering Atlanta residents.

Rachel currently serves as the Atlanta Public Schools Executive Director of the Office of Partnerships and Development. She is responsible for facilitating partnerships and fundraising to support more than 50,000 students. Prior to her current role, Rachel has served as the Grants Coordinator for APS as well as similar roles for public schools in North Carolina and her native Maryland. Her community involvement also stretches beyond her career including leadership on the Changemakers Board for Hands on Atlanta and the Board of Advisors for Lab Atlanta, and the Empty Stocking Fund

The panel discussion will be moderated by Chris Burke, Executive Director of Community Relations at Georgia Tech.

The 2020/21 series will feature conversations on race, social justice, diversity, equity, and inclusion.