CONNECTION THAT COUNTS

•

CONNECTION THAT COUNTS •

BEHIND THE SCENES OF UPCOMING POSSIBILITIES

Updates, event, and more!

Milestones & Momentum

This space offers an inside look at what’s next and recaps of highlights—events in motion, milestones in the making, and updates from across the Ethos community. It’s where vision meets progress and you get a front-row seat to how new ideas come to life and accomplishments made along the way.

Upcoming Events

Party of 7 (Go Dutch) Lunch Series
Nov
15

Party of 7 (Go Dutch) Lunch Series

A relaxed and engaging way to connect with fellow Ethos members over good food and conversation. Each month, a small group of seven—including our founder, Rob—will gather for lunch at a local restaurant int he DMV. The mix of attendees will change each time, offering a chance to meet new people from across industries and career stages in a fun, low-pressure setting.

Interested in joining the next lunch? Stay tuned for upcoming dates or send a quick email to Rob to be considered for the next table.

View Event →

Collaborations in Works

  • On September 16, 2025, Ethos 108 began discussions with JPMorgan Chase’s VP of Outreach to explore a potential collaboration for an upcoming Financial Series Zoom. The partnership aims to provide members with valuable financial insights and tools to support their personal and professional growth.

  • Ethos 108 is partnering with the founder of Mocha Girls Read in Oakland, CA, to plan a Coast-to-Coast Book Fair. The collaboration aims to celebrate diverse voices, connect readers and authors nationwide, and build bridges through the power of storytelling.

  • Ethos 108 is exploring a new event concept — Speaking vs. Speaking — a friendly, skills-based competition designed to spotlight dynamic voices within our community. We’re currently taking names of those interested in competing. Email us if you want to be added to the list!

  • Ethos 108 is hosting an intimate Roundtable Dinner Discussion with members who participated in the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference. Together, we’ll reflect on key takeaways, share insights, and explore next steps for building on the momentum created during ALC.

Recaps

→ Our Start

On August 17, 2012 Ethos 108 was introduced through updating emails. Ethos 108 has been evolving since.

→ Ethos 108 at the Congressional Black Caucus

From September 24–26, Ethos 108 was proudly represented at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference. We supported panelists Dr. Chelsey Green and Dr. Nicol Lee during their sessions, while Ethos 108 members Marcus Canady and Kevin Wayne Johnson were featured in the Author’s Booth.

  • “Ethos 108 is a valuable resource."

    “Ethos 108 is a valuable resource as it allows primarily African American professionals to learn, expand their vocational networks, and leverage their resources. As an original member, I have attended several panels and individual learning sessions and have always stepped away with rich cognitive nuggets. Mr. Rob Joell is to be highly commended for sharing his vision and developing such an awesome reservoir of knowledge for our community and the planet.

    I have had the honor of knowing Rob for approximately three decades and have been a proud member of Ethos 108 since its inception five years ago. During this time and due to Rob's massive efforts to professionally and personally connect men and women of color, I have learned so much. He has offered a wealth of learning and information via his Ethos 108 speaker series. Multiple subject matter experts have shared their knowledge in various topical areas such as economics, entrepreneurship, science, career development and several other fascinating subjects. Rob is a skilled and natural "bridge maker" and "networking architect" as he carefully listens to discover one's passions, interests, expertise, etc. and will connect individuals with like-minded colleagues. This strategic networking has led to many partnerships, collaborations, mentorships and career development opportunities.”

    — Dr. Brian Easley