Employer Coalition (POWER Series) - Real Talk: Culture & Career

In today's evolving workplace, professionals are increasingly challenged to show up fully while driving results in fast-paced, high-performance environments. This session led by NE’s HBCU + Greek Collaborative, blends two powerful themes: authenticity in the workplace and purpose-driven leadership into one dynamic conversation designed to spark honest dialogue and practical insights. Real Talk: Culture & Career explores how individuals balance personal identity with professional expectations. Whether it's managing perceptions, adapting to different environments, or pushing back on outdated norms, this part of the session will unpack what it really takes to thrive while staying true to oneself. Attendees will hear real stories about how panelists have navigated early career moments, turning points, and leadership transitions while holding on to their values and voice. 

Raven Boyland Bio

Raven Boyland is a Software Asset Management Specialist at Creighton University’s Department of IT and a recent graduate of the University of Nebraska at Omaha, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. While at UNO, she held leadership roles in the Tau Alpha Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, the Black Student Union, and the National Society of Black Engineers.

Raven continues her community involvement through the Nebraska HBCU Greek Collaborative and initiatives like AfroFest Omaha, the Women’s Fund Youth Action Council, and local political organizing. She was honored with the Omaha NAACP Freedom Fighters Award and remains passionate about leading with authenticity, service, and purpose.

Dorothy Johnson Bio

Dorothy Johnson, MAHS is an influential leader in the Greater Omaha community, across the Nebraska landscape, and beyond. Proudly hailing from North Omaha, she brings more than 15 years of cross-sector experience spanning venture capital, nonprofit boards, statewide initiatives, and government commissions. Since 2020, she has raised over $5 million to support traditionally underestimated individuals and communities.

In 2021, Dorothy founded Nebraska’s HBCU + Greek Collaborative, the state’s only organization dedicated to uniting HBCU alumni and Black Greek-letter organizations to advance talent attraction, retention, and cultural visibility.

Her leadership is marked by a unique fusion of entrepreneurial vigor, deep venture capital and workforce expertise, and an unwavering dedication to community advancement. Dorothy seamlessly integrates executive leadership, fundraising acumen, educational advocacy, and a commitment to genuine inclusivity. Her attention to organizational integrity and operational excellence underscores her ability to foster sustainable, impactful initiatives that expand opportunity and drive systemic change.

Devalon Whitcomb Bio

DeValon Whitcomb is a transformational nonprofit leader recognized for his visionary leadership, community impact, and dedication to youth empowerment across the midwestern region. Currently, Mr. Whitcomb serves as Associate Executive Director of the Butler-Gast YMCA in Omaha, Nebraska. In this role, DeValon oversees branch operations, financial management, and strategic growth. During his first year, the Butler-Gast Branch experienced an unprecedented 28% increase in membership and a 275% rise in facility usage.

With over a decade of experience in youth development, fundraising, and nonprofit administration, DeValon facilitated four major capital campaigns totaling over $100 million. His mission-driven leadership emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and community building that seeks to create environments wherein children, youth, and families can thrive.

A recipient of multiple Superior Service Awards (Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.),  a University of South Dakota “30 Under 30” nominee, and the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team Recipient,  DeValon continues to exemplify purpose-driven leadership. 

DeValon is the proud son of Eris and Shana Mackey and Demetrius Joseph Simpson, Sr. (Deceased). Mr. Whitcomb deeply values the love and support of his family. Always going by a quote from the late Dr. Joe Edmondson, understanding that there is "No Magic, Just Hard Work".

Susie Owens Bio

Susie Owens is the Deputy Director of MENTOR Nebraska, where she leads statewide efforts to expand access to quality mentoring through strategic partnerships, community-centered initiatives, and data-informed program development. A passionate advocate for inclusive leadership, Susie brings over a decade of experience in nonprofit management, cross-sector collaboration, and training. She has worked at organizations such as the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Greater Omaha Chamber, and College Possible. Her work centers on empowering communities, strengthening organizational capacity, and driving long-term impact through a human-centered approach.

Susie holds degrees in Human Development and Family Science, B.S. and Leadership Education, M.S., from the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Known for her collaborative leadership, Susie inspires teams to lead with purpose, integrity, and excellence. She believes that mentoring is a powerful tool to build connection, hope, and impact.