ABOUT

In 2020, Deanna Jones transitioned to her authentic self while working at Cisco Systems in the Research Triangle Park region of North Carolina. 

Immediately after transitioning, she emerged with joy into a life filled with new promise and possibilities. Soon, she realized she had a story to tell, one that could impact people, companies, and society.

First, she began speaking at a storytelling group called the Monti in Durham, then serving on panels for conferences focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion.  

Deanna’s passion now lies in speaking to companies and at civic and professional events to share her story of not only transitioning in the workplace, but her personal life as well.

Deanna launched her company to share insights and inspiration on creating inclusive and authentic workplaces, focusing on the power of personal transformation and growth. The company’s mission is to help individuals and organizations better understand the importance of belonging in today’s workplace and to support teams through meaningful transitions and changes. Whole, authentic employees make all the difference—and everyone deserves to feel like they belong.

Deanna Jones has worked in sales and operations roles in the technology field for over 25 years, including the last 23 years at Cisco. She holds an MBA from Elon University and a Masters Degree in Instructional Technology from University of Maryland University Global Campus. 

A member of Toastmasters for seven years, she currently serves that organization as Area Director. She is a member of Harmony, the Raleigh area’s LGBT+ Chamber of Commerce and currently serves as Harmony’s President for 2024-2025.  Deanna is also a proud member of the Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and the Morrisville Chamber of Commerce. 

In her spare time, Deanna enjoys coaching T-ball, a passion she’s pursued for 14 seasons.

I’ve had the pleasure of

working with teams at: