Have you ever reacted to a situation in a way that surprised you? Scientific research has indicated that a significant number of the decisions we make and the actions we take are outside of our conscious awareness.

As a result, implicit bias plays an active role in our decision-making process. Attendees will gain insight into the prevalence of implicit bias and its impact on our daily lives. Participants will also learn about the three key components (awareness, knowledge, and skills) necessary to effectively understand and manage personal biases.

Dr. Marvin Whitfield is a member of the Rotary District 6600 E-Club Ohio Pathways, the CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwestern Ohio, and founder of the Blue Force Mobile Training Team. Before moving to the private sector, Whitfield served as a Team Leader and Senior Instructor on a Department of Defense contract and conducted numerous training missions for the United States Army Intelligence Center of Excellence Training Division. His previous work experience also included more than 26 years of law enforcement, where he served as a Police Officer and later a Police Commander. Whitfield still serves the law enforcement community today as a Special Deputy. Dr. Whitfield’s educational background consists of a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Criminal Justice, a Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice Administration, and a Masters of Business Administration: specializing in Human Resource Management. The purpose of his qualitative research study for his Ph.D. was to examine how implicit-bias training influences an individual’s awareness, knowledge, and skills in cultural competency. He also regularly attends advanced levels of training and seminars throughout the year.