From the most unlikely person to end up as a senior official to President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama comes a candid, incredible and inspiring story. Moved by the election of the country’s first Black president, Deesha Dyer applied for a White House internship in 2009 as a thirty-one-year-old part-time community student, taking a leap that carried her through being hired in a full-time position, followed by two promotions landing her at the epicenter of politics.
 
But in spite of the little voice in her head telling her she didn’t deserve to be there, Deesha thrived and rose to the highly coveted role of White House social secretary, giving her a front row-seat to executing events that communicated defining moments in history while curating some of the flyest parties 1600 Pennsylvania has ever seen. With humor and realness, she peels back the curtain, revealing the hard truth about why she spent years trying to hide behind it. Undiplomatic is a deeply personal narrative about combating the feeling of self-doubt while being on top of the world. Deesha reflects on how imposter syndrome threatened her self-esteem, proven aptitude and survival until she realized that it was neither her fault nor her responsibility.
 
In this vivid portrayal from a true “around the way girl” on the personal impact of the Obama presidency, Deesha shares her road map from imposter to impact. In Undiplomatic, she invites you on a journey of self-discovery where she overcame doubt, unearthed true love for herself and learned that your unique worth is not something to be earned, but something inherently deserved. Uplifting, funny and candid, Deesha’s story shows you how to embrace your authenticity at all costs, and the joy and freedom that awaits on the other side.

Deesha Dyer will be joined in conversation by Baltimore Beat editor-in-chief Lisa Snowden-McCray. 

About the Author: 

Deesha Dyer is an award-winning strategist, on-the-ground community organizer, and executive operations expert. She served as the White House Social Secretary during the Obama Administration and is currently the founder and CEO of Hook & Fasten.

About the Moderator: 

Lisa Snowden-McCray is the editor-in-chief and cofounder of the Baltimore Beat.  She is a former editor at the Baltimore Sun, Baltimore City Paper, and Real News Network.  Her writing has appeared in numerous publications, including Essence, The Washington Post, and Baltimore Magazine. 

Program Information: 

• This FREE event will be presented in-person and virtually.   
• To attend in person please register here.   
• Doors will open to registered attendees at 6 pm. 
• Free parking vouchers are available to program attendees who park at the Franklin Street Garage (15 W. Franklin Street) after 4pm.  Ask Pratt event staff for your parking voucher prior to or after the program.