Deanna Jones

Deanna is a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience in the technology sector, specializing in sales and operations roles. Her career includes a remarkable 25-year tenure at Cisco Systems. She serves as the President of the Harmony LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce and is an active member of the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and the NC Chamber of Commerce.  In 2019, while working at Cisco Systems, Deanna embraced her authentic self through transition. This personal journey inspired her to become deeply involved with the LGBTQ+ community. Furthering her commitment to diversity and inclusion, Deanna obtained a DEI certificate in Diversity & Inclusion Training from Cornell. Deanna now leverages her extensive experience and knowledge to assist small to mid-sized companies create more LGBTQ+-friendly workplaces. As a keynote speaker and member of the National Speakers Association, she shares her insights and advocates for inclusive environments across various platforms. Deanna particularly emphasizes the importance of authentic communication, drawing from her personal and professional experiences to illustrate the power of genuine self-expression in the workplace.
Her unique blend of corporate experience, community leadership, and personal journey positions Deanna as a valuable resource in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in professional settings. Through her work, she champions the value of authenticity and open dialogue in fostering more inclusive and productive work environments.