PHILADELPHIA –
The Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support hosted agency Equal Employment Opportunity professionals for the third annual DLA EEO Symposium on Sept. 9.
According to the symposium booklet, the 2025 theme, "Back to the Basics," highlights a return to the foundational elements of EEO laws and regulations. The symposium aims to reinforce understanding of core EEO principles ensuring all EEO practitioners are grounded in the essential policies that support a fair and equitable workplace.
DLA Chief of Staff Karyn Runstrom, a Philadelphia native, highlighted that reconnecting with the fundamentals is critical for the agency.
“I am extremely proud that you all have taken the three days away from your daily grind to work on professional development, but also teamwork and networking,” she said. “I think it is critical to the agency to engage in these kinds of events.”
The three-day symposium included break-out sessions and interactive learning on topics that uphold EEO principles.
"I hope these next few days of training are enlightening, encouraging and effective," said DLA Troop Support Deputy Chief of Staff Diana Stewart during her welcome remarks. "These are the values that strengthen our mission and our workforce. I wish you an enjoyable and exciting symposium and enjoy your time in our city."
The previous symposium was held in Orlando, Florida, in September 2024. The change to Philadelphia reflects the back-to-basics theme.
“Hosting the symposium at a [Major Subordinate Command] underscores the agency's mission pillars: Partnership, People, and Culture,” said DLA EEO Director Janice Samuel. "It promotes collaboration across different commands and strengthens stakeholder relationships beyond DLA headquarters.”
Ensuring safe work environments is one responsibility of the DLA EEO office.
“I am extremely grateful that you have dedicated your career to this field,” said Runstrom. “You foster a workplace that is safe, free from harassments and retaliation. You have a very special skill set where you balance emotions, as well as the law. Not everyone can do that, I do not think it is something you can learn but are born with.”
For more information on DLA's Equal Employment Opportunity office, click here.