On Monday, June 10, Verizon’s Fordham Road store in The Bronx will host a career/networking event and a celebration of what the company says is its ongoing commitment to local communities, workforce development, small businesses, and digital inclusion.

 

From 2.30 p.m to 5.30 p.m., Verizon’s company store at 257 E. Fordham Road in The Bronx will present a panel with some of the City’s top leaders; encourage attendees to discuss open positions with an on-site Verizon recruiter and pose for free headshots taken by a pro photographer; foster networking opportunities; and highlight ongoing Verizon initiatives that bolster the community.

 

The panel will feature leaders in the Latino and Black communities, with Lisa Sorin, president of Bronx Chamber of Commerce; Paloma Izquirdo-Hernandez, president and CEO of Urban Health Plan; Rocky Bucano, CEO of the Universal Hip Hop Museum; and Debbie Roman, managing director of New York Per Scholas scheduled to participate.

 

Roman said of the event, “For nearly 30 years, Per Scholas has driven equity and opportunity in the technology sector by unlocking individuals’ untapped potential, uplifting communities, and meeting employer needs through rigorous tech training.” She added, “These conversations are essential to connecting community leaders with people eager to unlock their potential and change the face of technology.”

 

The event is part of Verizon’s “Connected by Culture” series. April Horton, senior manager of state and local government affairs for Verizon, said, “In the tapestry of modern society, technology stands as the great unifier, threading through the vital sectors of healthcare, small business, education, and immersive experiences.”

 

She added, “It bridges gaps, transcends boundaries, and cultivates cultural cohesion, knitting together diverse communities into a shared narrative of progress. From revolutionizing medical care to empowering small enterprises, enriching education, and crafting immersive worlds, technology’s role as the ultimate connector is undeniable. It’s not just about innovation; it’s about inclusivity, empowerment, and a future where our collective potential is multiplied.”

 

Aligning with what the company described as the Citizen Verizon responsible-business plan, the event aims to highlight what was described as Verizon’s “continuing commitment to workforce development,” such as the Verizon Skill Forward program, which, according to the company, provides access to self-paced, expert-led skills building online courses.

 

With no prior experience or college degree required, Verizon Skill Forward participants can access self-paced, expert-led, free, online courses designed by universities and industry experts for one year, including dedicated courses in Spanish.