ETHOS 108 IN ACTION

Updates, events, milestones, momentum, and more!

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

Iron-Sharpens-Iron Vision Board Workshop Brunch
Feb
7

Iron-Sharpens-Iron Vision Board Workshop Brunch

1st Ethos108–DMV Iron Sharpens Iron Vision Board Workshop Brunch

Join Ethos108–DMV for our first Iron Sharpens Iron Vision Board Workshop Brunch—a reflective, collaborative space designed to help you clarify, strengthen, and refine your goals for 2026.

This workshop invites participants to map out their current goals visually and engage in thoughtful feedback and discussion with peers. Together, we’ll sharpen ideas, uncover gaps, and exchange insights, resources, and referrals that can help turn vision into action. Whether you’re refining existing goals or gaining fresh perspective, this is a space rooted in growth, accountability, and community.

We’ll gather on the first weekend of Black History Month at the Executive Diner in Alexandria, directly across from the historic Shiloh Baptist Church—a powerful reminder of Black resilience, legacy, and collective vision-building. Brunch will be available for purchase off the menu, with free and convenient parking on-site.

This intimate workshop is limited to the first 25 RSVPs, creating space for meaningful conversation and connection.

Workshop Cost: $19.21 (brunch not included)
The cost honors the year 1921, commemorating the destruction of Black Wall Street in Tulsa, OK—a moment of history that also informs the meaning behind the Ethos108 name.

Details:

  • Date: Saturday, February 7

  • Time: 10:00 AM

  • Location: Executive Diner, 1400 Duke Street, Alexandria, VA

  • Easy access, just blocks from I-95

Come ready to reflect, refine, and build forward—together. RSVP by emailing robjoell@gmail.com.

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Ethos 108 Think Tank Zoom: How Can We Help You Reach a Goal This Year?
Jan
26

Ethos 108 Think Tank Zoom: How Can We Help You Reach a Goal This Year?

Ethos 108 Think Tank Zoom: How Can We Help You Reach a Goal This Year?

Join Ethos 108 for a virtual Think Tank conversation focused on collective problem-solving, connection, and forward momentum. This interactive Zoom session is designed to give members space to share one key goal for the year and receive insights, ideas, resources, and referrals from the Ethos 108 community.

We’ll also open the conversation to discuss who you’d recommend to Ethos 108—highlighting individuals whose work, values, and expertise align with the community and could benefit from (and contribute to) this network.

Details:

  • Date: January 26

  • Time: 7:30 PM EST

  • Format: Virtual (Zoom)
    Email Rob for access to the link and to RSVP at robjoell@gmail.com.

Come ready to think together, support one another, and help shape the strength of our community for the year ahead.

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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.

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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.

  • On January 3, 2026, Ethos 108 facilitated two meaningful connection efforts within the community. We supported a conversation with an Ethos 108 member and CEO of a Glaucoma Center regarding her need to hire qualified glaucoma eye doctors for her practice, and followed up by reaching out to an eye surgeon connected to the Ethos network to explore potential referrals. That same day, we also shared an opportunity with an Ethos 108 HR leader for a Director of People and Culture role at the largest Black-owned architecture firm in the United States—continuing our commitment to connecting talent with impactful leadership opportunities. If you—or someone you know—are exploring new roles, considering a career transition, or actively hiring, we encourage you to reach out and stay connected.

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