As the business landscape continues to evolve, so do the conversations around diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB). Join NAWBO Greater Raleigh for an insightful DEI Business Luncheon on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, where we’ll explore how women entrepreneurs and business leaders are navigating success in a shifting DEI climate.

This powerful event will feature dynamic speakers, thought-provoking discussions, and actionable strategies to help business owners adapt, thrive, and continue fostering inclusive and equitable workplaces. Gain insights from industry leaders, connect with like-minded professionals, and leave with valuable tools to drive sustainable success.

Meet the Moderator

Carena Brantley Lemons | The Lemons Law Firm, PLLC | Attorney & Principal

Carena holds a BA in Political Science from the University of South Carolina and a JD from North Carolina Central University (NCCU) School of Law. With over 22 years of legal experience, she has served on various boards, including the Greater Raleigh Chapter of NAWBO, the NCBA Sports and Entertainment Law Council, the Durham Orange Women Attorneys (DOWA), and her local District Bar Grievance Committee. She has taught for Duke University’s paralegal program and at NCCU School of Law. Through her firm, The Lemons Law Firm, PLLC, Carena focuses on employment and entertainment law. She is also an actress and the creator and host of It’s Your Life, a television talk show.

Meet the Panelist

Saima Cardwell | SAS | Supplier Diversity Specialist

Saima is a dedicated champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion, with a strong commitment to empowering diverse-owned businesses. With over 25 years at SAS, she has held key roles in Finance, Licensing & Contracts, and Strategic Sourcing & Procurement, gaining deep expertise in business development, contracts, and procurement. Since 2015, as a Supplier Diversity Specialist, she has worked to enhance diverse supplier inclusion. Saima holds a Bachelor’s degree from Campbell University and is a Certified Supplier Diversity Specialist (CPSD). She serves on multiple boards, including Disability:IN NC and ISM Carolina Virginias-Triangle Chapter, where she is the current president.

Gracie Johnson-Lopez |  Diversity & HR Solutions | President

Gracie Johnson-Lopez is a seasoned corporate executive, global workforce and talent management expert, national speaker, and certified diversity trainer. As the President of Diversity & HR Solutions, she specializes in HR strategy, talent management, organizational transformation, and diversity & inclusion. With over 30 years of experience, Gracie has held senior leadership roles across operations, HR, academia, government, and financial services. She holds a Bachelor’s from NCCU and a Master’s from Duke University, along with certifications in HR, Diversity & Inclusion, and Business Leadership from Dartmouth’s Tuck School. She actively serves on numerous community boards, including Dress for Success Triangle and Leadership Triangle.

Sertrice Shipley  | Plan to Action | Founder & CEO

Sertrice Shipley is the Founder of Plan to Action, a DEI consulting firm, and co-author of Inclusalytics. With a strong background in diversity, equity, and inclusion, she previously served as Co-Owner & Chief Consulting Officer of Mattingly Solutions, where she worked with organizations like NAWBO, Koppers, and American Humane to develop DEI strategies, assessments, and action plans. A sought-after speaker, Sertrice has presented at SHRM, the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology, and various Chamber events. Passionate about community service, she holds multiple board positions. She resides in Raleigh, NC, with her husband, Abraham, and their dog, Winston.

Dr. Cheryl Sutton  | NC Education Lottery | Director of Supplier Diversity and Outreach

Dr. Cheryl Sutton is a dedicated advocate for minority and diverse-owned businesses, with over 20 years of experience in the public and private sectors. She specializes in relationship-building to create equitable opportunities, guided by her mantra, “Making Connections Count.” She has led impactful programs like UNC Wilmington’s HUB Academy and Cape Fear Region Minority Enterprise Development Week. A recognized leader, she has received multiple awards, including NC Women Business Owners Hall of Fame Inductee (2024). At the NC Education Lottery, she founded the Diversity Champions Resource Group to advance inclusivity. Above all, she prioritizes family first.