Elevate Rapid City is dedicated to providing employers with innovative workforce solutions through the Workforce Engagement Strategies Series. This four-part quarterly series is designed for organizations and community members seeking to strengthen workplace culture, improve retention, and enhance recruitment by gaining a deeper understanding of the diverse experiences and perspectives within today's workforce. 

Program Description:
Join us for an engaging session on the importance of cultural competency in today's workplace. Our guest speaker will explore how building cultural competency can strengthen workplace culture, improve employee engagement, and support successful recruitment and retention efforts. Participants will gain practical strategies for fostering understanding, effective communication, and meaningful collaboration across diverse teams.

Key Takeaways:

• Strengthen Workplace Culture: Learn how cultural competency fosters a respectful, welcoming, and collaborative work environment.
• Increase Employee Engagement: Explore how employees are more likely to thrive when they feel understood, valued, and supported.
• Enhance Recruitment Efforts: Discover how culturally competent organizations are better positioned to attract a broader and more diverse talent pool.
• Improve Employee Retention: Gain practical strategies for creating a workplace where employees feel a sense of belonging and are more likely to stay.
• Build Stronger Teams: Develop communication and collaboration practices that strengthen relationships, encourage mutual respect, and improve team effectiveness.

About the Speaker: 

Reese Niu

Reese Niu is a workforce development professional who has built a career around strengthening communities and creating pathways to opportunity. She currently serves as the Vice President of Vocational Services at Black Hills Works, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities. Previously, she served as the Workforce Planning Director at Elevate Rapid City, where she advised local employers on talent strategy, led regional workforce initiatives, and helped connect community members to opportunities for economic growth and advancement. Her contributions to the field earned her recognition as a Top 50 Economic Developer in North America in 2025 and inclusion in the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives’ 40 Under 40 Class of 2024.

Reese holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Portland State University and multiple certifications in workforce development, human resources, and inclusive leadership from institutions including Michigan State University and the International Economic Development Council. Beyond her professional work, Reese is committed to serving the Rapid City community and serves on numerous boards, has been appointed to multiple city commissions and committees, and is the head volleyball coach at Rapid City Central High School. Rooted in her Samoan heritage, Reese brings her cultural values of respect, service, and faith to everything she does.

Registration deadline is Friday, August 14!

If you complete all four sessions, you will receive a Certificate of Completion in Workforce Engagement Strategies. Should your professional organization require continuing education, please contact our office for any information you may need to obtain credit for attending.

Please mark your calendars for the upcoming sessions. More details will be released as the session draws closer.

• October 8

The future sessions will cover:

• Disability Awareness & People-First Language

By signing up for an Elevate event, I agree to comply with and be bound to the Elevate code of conduct.