On November 9, 2023, the Public Affairs Council's Hogans Fellows were in for a unique and enriching experience as they gathered for a lunch and learn session with Anthony Shop, Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of Social Driver. This exclusive event had been made possible through the Driver Foundation's support of the Foundation for Public Affairs' Hogans Fellowship program, exemplifying a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and the nurturing of emerging leaders in the public affairs profession.

The Hogans Fellowship program, named in honor of Mack Hogans, the first Black Board Chair of the Council and a respected corporate executive, was a beacon of diversity and inclusivity in the public affairs field. This program had been designed to retain and advance emerging leaders, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, by providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and leadership training. It had been a crucial initiative that aligned seamlessly with The Driver Foundation's focus on DEI and we’re proud to be a part of the program.

At Social Driver and The Driver Foundation, the principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion had been at the heart of everything they did. Anthony Shop serves on the board of the Public Affairs Council and had actively contributed to its Social Impact committee, which had played a pivotal role in the establishment of the Hogans Fellowship program. His dedication to promoting a more equitable and inclusive public affairs industry had been unwavering.

By supporting the Hogans Fellowship, Social Driver and The Driver Foundation had invested in the future of the public affairs profession and the need to create a more just and equitable industry. The fellowship's year-long program, which had included skills training, mentoring, and networking opportunities, had fostered an inclusive culture by empowering emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds.

The lunch and learn with Anthony Shop had been more than just a professional development opportunity. It had been a celebration as well as a testament to the commitment of Social Driver and The Driver Foundation to create positive change within the public affairs profession. It served as a reminder of the importance of investing in emerging leaders and working together to build a more equitable and inclusive industry.