Nearly 70 attendees representing over half of PLDIC member organizations gathered for the PLDIC’s 2026 “draft-themed” Spring Members Meeting on April 15 at the Energy Innovation Center. Our event speakers were Jim Rooney and Professor N. Jeremi Duru, who discussed how leaders can advance racial equity with their presentation, “The Leader’s Role in Equity, Race and Opportunity.” Their candid conversation gave unparalleled insights into the Rooney Rule (named after Jim’s father), the NFL policy requiring league teams to interview ethnic-minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operation jobs. They outlined the Rule’s strengths and weaknesses, providing insight into how leaders can create their own pathways for effective workplace policies. A live Q&A session provided attendees a chance to ask insightful questions. Guests also heard updates from PLDIC leadership and had ample time for networking over tailgate-themed food from Bistro To Go and a fun bar from Pittsburgh Mobile Bars.