Full day of career-building opportunities ends with “Pride Through the Decades” cocktail celebration
Madison, WI — August 12, 2025 — The OPEN Foundation will host its LGBTQIA+ Career Summit on Thursday, October 3, 2025, at Madison College, bringing together job seekers, inclusive employers, and community leaders for a day of networking, professional growth, and impact.
The Career Summit will feature:
- Inclusive Career Fair connecting LGBTQIA+ job seekers with employers committed to equity and belonging.
- Professional Development Workshops for skill-building, career planning, and leadership growth.
- Networking Opportunities with peers, mentors, and changemakers across industries.
Heidi Duss, Founder & Executive Director of OPEN Foundation, says the event is needed now more than ever: “This is more than a job fair—it’s about building pathways to belonging. With funding cuts and a growing demand for our services, we’re calling on our community and employers to step up, get involved, and invest in a future where LGBTQIA+ professionals can thrive.”
The day will close with the “Pride Through the Decades” Cocktail Celebration at The Hub on Park Street—a joyful, decade-themed evening where guests are encouraged to dress in business cocktail attire from the decade they were born, blending retro flair with career pride.
The OPEN Foundation invites employers, sponsors, and community members to be part of the day—whether by hosting a booth, sponsoring the event, or attending in support.
Learn more and get involved at www.openmadison.org/careersummit.
