Keynote Speakers
Donna Hicks, Ph.D.
Dr. Donna Hicks is an associate at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs at Harvard University and a leading expert on the role of dignity in conflict resolution. She has worked extensively in international conflict zones—including the Middle East, Sri Lanka, Colombia, and Northern Ireland—facilitating dialogue and reconciliation efforts grounded in dignity. Dr. Hicks developed and leads dignity-based training programs for organizations, governments, and communities worldwide, helping people restore relationships and foster healing. She is also vice president of Ara Pacis, supporting dignity restoration projects in Syria and Libya. Dr. Hicks has taught conflict resolution at Harvard University, Clark University, and Columbia University and continues to consult globally on dignity leadership and peacebuilding.
Alicia Burke
Alicia Burke focuses on UNITE’s corporate partnerships and Dignity Index training. Prior to UNITE, Alicia spent 23 years at Bank of America (BofA), integrating across a dynamic team of leaders to develop and deliver on strategy for BofA’s brand, marketing, communications, events, public policy, and Environmental, Social, and Governance. Alicia also led BofA’s Support Services team, an in-house marketing and fulfillment operation made up of 300+ employees with developmental disabilities. And Alicia developed and hosted That Made All the Difference, a podcast launched in partnership with The New York Times, where she interviewed changemakers and partners of Bank of America. Alicia is a Columbia University Credentialed Professional Executive Coach.
Workshop Facilitator
Madeleine Jones
Madeleine Jones is the field director at the Dignity Index, where she leads efforts to embed dignity-centered practices within colleges and universities. Madeleine has a multidisciplinary background in political science, psychology, and sociology, and through her work, she is helping to drive cultural change by equipping higher education students with the tools to lead with dignity. By fostering awareness and adoption of the Dignity Index, she supports the next generation in cultivating a culture where dignity is a shared, lived value.
