Distinguished Speakers Series

The DOT Distinguished Speakers Series is intended to spark curiosity, ignite passion, and promote continued learning among the DOT workforce. This series was initiated by the Departmental Office of Civil Rights (DOCR) as one aspect of the ongoing effort to promote diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity across the Department. Through this program, DOCR invites notable experts from a variety of backgrounds and fields to share their unique perspectives with the Department, in the hope that exposure to such a diverse body of thought leadership might challenge us all to think in different ways and to apply new perspectives to the important work of the DOT.

DOCR has hosted over 10 Distinguished Speakers Series events to date; featured speakers and topics have included: Acting Associate Attorney General Tony West speaking about leadership; Dr. Kelli Craig-Henderson (of the National Science Foundation) discussing the science of broadening participation in STEM fields; and Dr. Richard Ladner (of the University of Washington) presenting on the technology advancements that allow blind and low-vision individuals to navigate public transit.

Videos of select events are available below, and more will be added as they become available. If you are interested in receiving announcements regarding future Distinguished Speakers Series events, please email Liz Sablich at liz.sablich@dot.gov.

Featured Videos:

Effective Crisis and Risk Communication in the Age of Social Media – Owen Kulemeka

The Science of Broadening STEM Participation – Dr. Kellina Craig-Henderson

Optimal Wellness with Integrative Medicine – Dr. Marie Steinmetz, MD, DABFM

New Directions in Public Transit Mobility for People who are Blind, Low-Vision or Deaf-Blind – Dr. Richard Ladner