Welcome and Introductions: Dr. Kelly M.G. Whelan

Dr. Virginia Richardson, BCC

The next decade promises exponential change driven by two compounding megatrends: rapid technological advancement and shifting workforce dynamics. In this workshop, leaders will gain critical insights and actionable strategies to navigate and drive progress in this transformative landscape. Participants will delve into essential shifts in leadership thinking, focusing on fostering agility, embracing empathy-driven leadership, and aligning purpose with innovation. Through engaging discussions and real-world examples, attendees will emerge empowered with a clear roadmap to lead with confidence and impact in an ever-evolving world.

Justin Tilghman, PhD, CPC, NMCC® 

We’ll explore the often-overlooked connection between emotional, relational, and spiritual maturity in leadership. You’ll learn practical techniques for managing stress, staying relational during difficult conversations, and recognizing when you are beginning to see others as problems to solve rather than relationships to manage. With a focus on building resilience and self-awareness, this session will equip leaders to handle challenges in ways that maintain their integrity and foster healthier, more effective relationships.

Sally V. Fry, DSL

Are you facing a career change, considering a new direction, or preparing for retirement? Join this workshop to explore the strategies and mindset needed to navigate any career transition successfully. Through practical exercises, discover how to manage uncertainty, build resilience, and turn change into a catalyst for growth. Whether shifting roles, changing industries, or redefining your professional identity through retirement, this workshop provides the tools to approach your next steps with clarity and confidence. Embrace your journey, unlock new opportunities, and step forward with purpose.

Dr. Mike Hitchcock

Curious about breaking into the world of government contracts? Join me for “Breaking into the Big League: A Fun Guide to Federal Contracting” and get a quick, insightful look at how your business can get started with federal contracting. We’ll cover the basics, help you understand where to find opportunities and share practical tips on strategic partnering to amplify your chances of success. Perfect for newcomers, this 30-minute session will leave you informed, inspired, and ready to explore a whole new market. Don’t miss this chance to start navigating the federal landscape!

CEO G2-Ops

Chief of Staff & Senior Advisor N. Carolina Dept of Health & Human Services

Engineer & Partner The Gravity Group

Samantha Amit

You have the power to be focused and impactful. How can you turn overwhelm and frustration into being more strategic, impactful, happier and calm? You will learn tools and receive resources to create a mindset shift that leads to positive change for you and your team.

Annette Bechtold, PCC, CPLC, Gallup-certified, REALIFE Process® Coach

Unlock the power of effective communication with key tools every leader needs. In today’s fast-paced world, leaders and teams often feel the need for more communication—but more isn’t always better. What if you could communicate the right things, the right way, the first time? In this engaging 30-minute session, you’ll learn to master active listening, cultivate openness, and communicate with clarity and purpose, driving meaningful connections and boosting productivity without the noise.

Diane M. Wiater, PhD

Building honoring relationships and creating opportunities to give and receive feedback are crucial drivers of leadership development and impact. Trust, credibility, and a safe environment empower leaders to openly exchange and implement feedback, which, when applied, serves as a catalyst for growth in our development as leaders.

Dr. Aidin Brown

The presentation highlights the meaning and significance of authentic leadership branding in today’s rapidly changing environment. It focuses on how leaders can create a brand that aligns with their core values, enhances trust, and fosters meaningful connections with teams and stakeholders. Participants will learn strategies for identifying unique leadership attributes and translating them into an authentic brand.

Yosi Amram, PhD

We all understand the value of different forms of intelligence: IQ & EQ. What if there is an as powerful, if not more so, form of intelligence: Spiritual Intelligence (SI). A growing body of research highlights how SI contributes to effective leadership as well as overall wellbeing in a way that complements and turbo charges your EQ. Come find out the latest research on spiritual intelligence, how to develop it, and how you can inspire by being inspired.

Dr. Tywana Robinson

Change, while often met with discomfort or fear, is a catalyst for growth and improvement. Learning to manage and thrive amidst change is a key component of leadership. Committing to a purpose, building trust, leveraging your strengths, communicating, and adopting a growth mindset are essential strategies that help individuals stay on the path of self-discovery through purpose. This presentation will explore these and other key strategies, offering insights for extraordinary leader results.

Development Director, Accessible Hope Int’l

Consultant, Hunter Consulting Group

Corporate Philanthropy Officer, Sentara Foundation

Brooke Miles

You have a personal brand, whether you realize it or not. But who gets to define it? You or someone else? Now’s the time to take control of your professional image on LinkedIn, the world’s largest professional network. Learn practical ways to optimize your LinkedIn profile so you create a great first impression and solidify your personal brand for years to come.

David Wildman

Marketing and branding have transformed significantly in recent years, and keeping up can feel overwhelming. With the rise of AI, many wonder: is it a disruptor or an opportunity? Discover how to harness the power of new tools like AI to streamline your efforts, maintain clarity, and elevate your strategies for a successful 2025. Learn actionable steps to stay ahead while keeping your message authentic and impactful.

Dr. Diane Swanson

Get ready to experience a transformative journey in The Leadership Mantle! In this powerful talk, our speaker will dive into the unseen barriers that hold us back—like insecurity, fear, and bitterness—and reveal how to overcome them from a deeply spiritual perspective. With insights that uplift and challenge, this session is designed to help you break free from internal obstacles and step confidently into the fullness of your leadership. Prepare to leave empowered, equipped, and ready to embrace the mantle of leadership with renewed strength and clarity!

Dr. Kelly M.G. Whelan, ITCA Sr. Practitioner

Are you ready to implement actionable strategies to empower teams to drive meaningful impact in 2025? Join this session as we explore the importance of building trust thru fostering psychological safety; bridging innovation and collaboration. Attendees will learn practical methods to inspire creativity, and tackle challenges with confidence. Create an environment where every member feels valued and empowered, teams achieve measurable results and make a lasting difference in the year ahead.

As we wrap up the symposium, we reflect on the powerful conversations and insights shared over the past 3 days.