Pennsylvania

• Career Coaching* and Resume Reviews*
• Learning Stage offering mini-classes with actionable takeaways and expert tips for navigating your career
• Wellbeing Stage offering mini-classes with guidance for achieving physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing
• Small Group Networking
• Bookstore Lounge & Author Signings
• Complimentary Professional Headshots*

*First-come, first served!

Ladder Up: Fast-Track Your Leadership Ascent

Ready to elevate your career to new heights and dive deep into the strategic moves and mindset shifts that propel you toward top-tier leadership? Whether you’re eyeing a C-suite role or aiming for a senior position, this dynamic session gives YOU the chance to drive the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions about the modern leadership landscape, common career roadblocks, and how to supercharge your leadership skillset. Learn from mentors that illustrate success at every level of the ladder and unlock the secrets to accelerating your leadership journey with purpose and precision.

Moderator: Celeste Warren, Board Member, PA CFW

Executive Mentors:

• Kenya Boswell, SVP, Community Affairs, Highmark Health & President, Highmark Foundation
• Loraine Ballard Morrill, Director, News & Community Affairs, iHeartMedia Philadelphia
• Virginia Nguyen, VP, Chief Diversity & Impact Officer, QVC Group

Everyday AI: Practical Tools for a Smarter Life

From smart home devices to personalized digital assistants, artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming an invisible yet powerful part of our daily routines. Whether you’re a tech enthusiast or just AI-curious and seeking ways to use it more intentionally at work, at home, and everywhere in between, this dynamic session gives YOU the chance to drive the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions about how to use it effectively to simplify tasks, boost productivity, and enhance decision-making; and how to ask the right questions to get the most out of AI-powered tools. Join us to demystify the buzz, cut through the hype, and discover how AI can help you live and work smarter every day.

Moderator: Denise Nakano, Midday Anchor, KYW Newsradio, Audacy

Executive Mentors:

• Denise Campbell, VP, Marketing Strategy-Oncology in Marketing & Customer Experience, Novartis Services, Inc.
• Kathleen Keyes, Managing Director, AI, United Airlines
• Sue Metzger, Professor, Practice, Information Systems, Villanova School of Business

Success Strategies in Healthcare & Life Sciences

Health and life sciences are at the forefront of innovation and transformational change, offering exciting opportunities—and unique challenges—for professionals across the field. Building a career in this space requires not only technical expertise but also strategic thinking, adaptability, and a commitment to collaboration and mentorship. This dynamic session gives YOU the chance to drive the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions about navigating leadership pathways, fostering inclusive and resilient teams, leveraging networks, and positioning yourself for long-term growth and impact. Whether you’re advancing scientific discovery, improving patient outcomes, or mentoring future leaders, this session will offer actionable strategies to grow your influence and thrive in the field.

Moderator: Nikki Michelle Jones, Chief People, Data & Research Strategy Officer, Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association

Executive Mentors:

• Cathi Ahearn, SVP, Enterprise Strategy, Bristol Myers Squibb
• Cortney Dominianni-Smith, VP, Customer Experience & Insights, Genmab
• Dr. Reetika Kumar, Chief Customer Product, Clinical Solutions & Pharmacy Services, Independence Blue Cross
• Jennifer Sheller, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Clinical Trial Operations, Merck

Host: Bonnie Grant, Executive Director, PHL Life Sciences, Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau

The Longevity Shift: Women’s Health Reclaimed

Women are living longer than ever—but are we living well? Too often, critical conversations about health, hormones, mental wellbeing, and menopause are delayed, dismissed, or deprioritized. In this dynamic session, Dr. Jessica Shepherd, OB/GYN and Chief Medical Officer of Hers, breaks down what women need to know now to take control of their long-term health. Walk away with actionable insights to navigate hormone shifts (yes, including perimenopause and menopause), stress and brain health, preventative screenings, and the power of daily habits that build long-term resilience. Because longevity isn’t just about adding years—it’s about owning every stage with clarity, confidence, and intention.

Speaker: Dr. Jessica Shepherd, MD, MBA, Women’s Wellness & Longevity Expert, Chief Medical Officer – Hers and Author, Generation M

Host: Mika Clark Tupy, Managing Director- Alliances, United Airlines

Curate Your Wealth: A Tug-of-War Between Now & Later

True wealth is more than numbers on a spreadsheet—it’s the sum of your values, choices, and growth over time. In this empowering session, you’ll explore how to define what wealth means to you and uncover hidden treasures in your budget and net worth. Learn how to balance instant gratification with long-term goals, and discover strategies to invest in professional and lifelong learning as part of your wealth journey. With practical tools for regular “wealth check-ups” and adaptive decision-making, you’ll leave ready to balance and maximize returns on your investments.

Speaker: Monika Sywak, Associate Professor of Practice, Villanova School of Business

Lessons From Athletes on Finding Your Voice

In this high-energy session, learn powerful lessons on confidence and communication directly from the field. Join Special Olympics PA Vice President of Mission Integration, Chelsea Hammell and athlete Lily Seagraves as they share Lily’s inspiring journey from a shy swimmer to a confident advocate. Discover how sports become a platform for finding your voice, building resilience, and setting goals that empower you to succeed both in and out of the arena. This session is designed to provide actionable takeaways for anyone looking to speak up, stand out, and unleash their inner champion.

Speakers:

• Lily Seagraves, Special Olympian, Special Olympics PA
• Chelsea Hammell, VP, Mission Integration, Special Olympics PA

Women in Clinical Trials: Why Your Participation Matters

Clinical trials play an important role in advancing healthcare. It is critical that people from varied communities participate in clinical trials because people may respond differently to medicines depending on their age, gender, weight, ethnicity, and other factors. This discussion will highlight ongoing efforts to enhance access to clinical trials and underscore the importance of including women and other historically underrepresented groups in clinical research. Whether you’re a patient, advocate, or healthcare professional, we invite you to discover how your involvement can help shape the future of care.

Speaker: Adrelia Allen, Executive Director, Clinical Trial Patient Diversity, Merck

The Great Wealth Shift: Empowering Women to Lead with Confidence

A historic transfer of wealth is underway—and women are poised to lead it. In this powerful session, you’ll explore how the financial landscape is evolving to better serve women and how to step into your power as a confident financial decision-maker. From investing to legacy-building, discover the tools and mindset shifts that can help you take full control of your financial future. Whether you’re just getting started or ready to level up, now is the time to own your voice—and your wealth.

Speaker: Sheri Perkins, Chief Wealth Management Officer, Citadel Credit Union

Fueling Fulfillment: Purpose, Balance and Career Momentum

In a world where knowledge now doubles every 12 hours, staying relevant means embracing a mindset of lifelong, lifewide learning. In this inspiring session, you’ll discover how continuous learning—through courses, mentorships, workshops, volunteer work, and even self-directed study—fuels both purpose and passion. Research shows that investing in your own growth not only accelerates career advancement and keeps you competitive, but also strengthens wellbeing, brain health, and social connection. Whether online or offline, formal or informal, independent or collaborative, learning is the ultimate growth strategy. You’ll leave with a renewed vision for how to weave learning into every season of life—and why it may be your greatest investment.

Speaker: Dr. Susan Aldridge, President, Thomas Jefferson University

Tomi Adeyemi, #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author

Mariann Batista, Group VP, Greater Hartford Area, Target

Jim Dever, Managing Director, Market Executive, Private Bank President, Greater Philadelphia, Bank of America

Tamala Edwards, Action News Anchor, 6abc, WPVI-TV Philadelphia

Cynthia Erivo, Oscar-Nominated Actress, Author, Singer-Songwriter, Producer, & Emmy, Grammy, & Tony Award-Winning Performer
in Conversation with Lulu Garcia-Navarro, Host of The Interview at NYT Magazine

Lynelle Hoch, President, Cell Therapy Organization, Bristol Myers Squibb

Jesse Israel, Human Performance & Wellbeing Expert, 5X Audible, Worldwide Best-Seller, Founder of the The Big Quiet

Nichole Jeanpierre, VP, Sales & Marketing, Johnson and Johnson Innovative Medicine

Hoda Kotb, Award-Winning Journalist & Best-Selling Author
in Conversation with Alicia Vitarelli, Action News Anchor, 6abc WPVI-TV

Gina Lizzo, Managing Editor, Main Line Today

Jenny Kim Park, Chief Opportunity & Inclusion Officer, Bank of America

Mel Robbins, Creator & Host of Award-Winning The Mel Robbins Podcast & #1 New York Times Best-Selling Author

Leslie Stiles, Founding Board President, Pennsylvania Conference for Women

Nicole Stovall, VP, Global Diversity & Inclusion Center of Excellence, Merck

 
Speakers are not listed in order of appearance. Please check back for updates.

*** LUNCH INTERMISSION  11:50 am ***

VIEW LUNCH MENU

Becoming the CEO of Your Career

You’re not new to the game—but is your career still playing by outdated rules? In this dynamic session, Brandpreneur and organizational expert Dethra Giles challenges you to think like a strategist, act like a leader, and step fully into your professional authority. This session will show you how to manage your career with the precision of a corporation. Learn how to advocate for your value, build influence across the organization, while cultivating a powerful network that opens new doors, and make bold, intentional moves that align with your vision. If you’re ready to stop playing defense and start leading with purpose and clarity, this session is your blueprint for what’s next.

Speaker: Dethra Giles, CEO, ExecuPrep

Host: Terry Ann Williams, VP, State Street Corporation

Leading High-Performing Teams Through Productive Conflict

Avoiding conflict may feel safe—but it often stalls progress. Today’s top teams aren’t free of friction; they know how to navigate it. In this powerful session, organizational psychologist and “Teamwork Doctor” Dr. Liane Davey reveals how conflict, when handled well, fuels clarity, trust, and performance. You’ll explore why avoiding tough conversations undermines success, and how to foster a culture where candid dialogue drives results. With actionable strategies and real-world insights, this session will equip you to embrace tension, resolve issues faster, and lead teams that collaborate at the highest level.

Speaker: Dr. Liane Davey, Organizational Psychologist, “Teamwork Doctor,” & New York Times Best-Selling Author

Host: Tisha Albert, Director, Regulatory Affairs, Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board

Reclaiming Ambition: Turning Pivots into Power Moves

What if a career pause wasn’t a setback—but a strategic move? What if a pivot or transition wasn’t a disruption—but a moment of radical clarity? In this bold and timely talk, Neha Ruch challenges outdated narratives around ambition, identity, success, and self-worth during life’s transitional seasons. Whether you’re stepping away, shifting direction, or simply reassessing what matters most, this session will help you reframe your mindset and recognize the power in the pause. Learn how to navigate transition and shed shame, reject stereotypes, and reclaim your voice with purpose and presence. This isn’t about what’s next—it’s about seeing where you are as a defining chapter in your leadership story.

Speaker: Neha Ruch, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Mother Untitled

Host: Karen Giotis, VP, Integration, Johnson & Johnson

The New Era of Work, Care, and Wellbeing

In today’s hustle culture, the daily grind has become unsustainable—for individuals, families, and organizations. As burnout rises and boundaries blur, the call for change is louder than ever. Panel thought leader Brigid Schulte will provide initial remarks to explore how we got here—and what must shift to build healthier, more human-centered workplaces. She will then be joined by a panel of professionals who will share actionable strategies for both individuals and managers: how to reclaim time, set better boundaries, reduce stress, and foster a culture of trust and flexibility. You’ll walk away with strategies to find more balance, purpose, and sustainability in your work—and help your teams do the same in ways that support productivity and drive bottom-line success.

Thought Leader: Brigid Schulte, NYT Best-Selling Author & Director, Better Life Lab and The Good Life Initiative at New America

Panelists:

• Dr. Laurie Bernotsky, President, West Chester University
• Alexandra Dailerian, VP, Impact & Inclusion, Comcast
• Jennifer Hanna, VP, Electric Operations, PECO

Host: Sydney Klein, Chief Information Security Officer & Head, IT Core Services, Bristol Myers Squibb

Creating Financial Strength & Resilience in a Shifting World

In today’s turbulent economy—marked by inflation, rising costs, and financial uncertainty—building wealth can feel out of reach. But even in times of volatility, your financial future doesn’t have to be left to chance. In this bold and empowering session, Bola Sokunbi, founder of Clever Girl Finance, shares smart, actionable strategies to crush debt, grow real wealth, and stay retirement-ready without sacrificing the life you want now. Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck, recovering from a setback, or looking to build momentum, this is your moment to take inventory, get clear on your goals, and make intentional money moves that reflect today’s challenges and tomorrow’s possibilities. You’ll leave with the confidence and tools to navigate uncertainty and create lasting financial freedom on your terms.

Speaker: Bola Sokunbi, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Clever Girl Finance

Host: Jamie Edmonson, Partner, Bankruptcy & Reorganizations practice, Robinson & Cole

Prompt Like a Pro: AI Writing That Gets Results

Ever wish you could rewrite that email, presentation, or text? In this practical session, you’ll discover how to get it right the first time with AI as your writing partner. Learn to craft prompts that eliminate endless back-and-forth and produce clear, compelling results quickly and gracefully. Far from tech jargon, this session offers heart-centered, actionable tools to help you communicate with confidence whether you’re writing an email, building a deck, or preparing for a high-stakes moment. With AI as your personal writing coach, you’ll leave ready to elevate your voice, not replace it.

Speaker: Catherine M. Charlton, CEO, Musicopia

Bending Without Breaking: The Power of Resilience

In a time of constant change and unprecedented challenges, how can effective leaders stay grounded and build resilience among their team? From modeling vulnerability and authenticity to fostering psychological safety, Alex Jorgensen shares practical ways to help others withstand ongoing pressure, navigate and adapt to change, and recover quickly from setbacks. Discover how intentional engagement can help you build a culture that bends without breaking.

Speaker: Alexandra Jorgensen, Chief Human Resources Officer, Independence Blue Cross

Navigating What’s Next: Leadership at the Speed of Change

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, effective leadership requires more than vision—it demands agility, resilience, and the ability to guide teams through constant transformation. Discover how to stay grounded in moments of uncertainty, navigate the emotional journey of change, and create team cultures that thrive rather than just survive disruption. Join us for an engaging session where we’ll explore practical strategies for leading when the only constant is change itself.

Speaker: Jessica Lienert, Associate Director Schizophrenia Insights & Analytics, Johnson & Johnson

Beyond the Business: Wealth Strategy and Succession Planning

The decision to exit your business is a complex process but one of the most important transitions in a business owner’s life. Whether you are passing the reins to a family member, business partner or selling to an investor, having a solid exit plan is critical. We will discuss the key components of building out this exit plan to ensure that your business is in optimal shape and aligns with your legacy and personal financial goals, as well as sets the business up for continued success.

Speakers:

• Sandy Singletary, Sr. Relationship Manager, Bank of America
• Betsy Rath, Private Client Advisor, Bank of America Private Bank

Power in Participation: How Getting Involved Fuels Change

Change starts with people who show up—and Philly is ready for you. In this energizing session, you’ll explore what it means to be a Phambassador and how your presence can help shape an unforgettable 2026. Learn how to turn your passion into purpose, inspire those around you, and build stronger community ties. Whether you’re new to civic engagement or a seasoned leader, you’ll walk away with fresh motivation to connect, celebrate, and lead with heart. Philly needs your energy—let’s make it count!

Speaker: Sheila Hess, Philadelphia Phambassador

Culture of Philanthropy: Educating the Next Generation

Philanthropy isn’t just about writing checks—it’s about building a legacy of impact that lasts. In this lively session, we’ll unpack what a true culture of philanthropy looks like and how industry, social good, and individual action come together to fuel it. From women trailblazers who shaped communities through giving to today’s fast-click donations and viral campaigns, you’ll explore why quick acts of charity, while wonderful, don’t always add up to long-term change. Walk away with a fresh perspective on the benefits (and challenges) of living with a philanthropic mindset, plus simple, doable steps you can take to spark deeper impact for yourself and your community.

Speaker: Kate Hagarty, Director, Marketing & Communications, BLOCS

Becoming the CEO of Your Career

You’re not new to the game—but is your career still playing by outdated rules? In this dynamic session, Brandpreneur and organizational expert Dethra Giles challenges you to think like a strategist, act like a leader, and step fully into your professional authority. This session will show you how to manage your career with the precision of a corporation. Learn how to advocate for your value, build influence across the organization, while cultivating a powerful network that opens new doors, and make bold, intentional moves that align with your vision. If you’re ready to stop playing defense and start leading with purpose and clarity, this session is your blueprint for what’s next.

Speaker: Dethra Giles, CEO, ExecuPrep

Host: Rev. Lorina Marshall-Blake, VP, Community Affairs, Independence Blue Cross and Board Member, PA Conference for Women

Leading High-Performing Teams Through Productive Conflict

Avoiding conflict may feel safe—but it often stalls progress. Today’s top teams aren’t free of friction; they know how to navigate it. In this powerful session, organizational psychologist and “Teamwork Doctor” Dr. Liane Davey reveals how conflict, when handled well, fuels clarity, trust, and performance. You’ll explore why avoiding tough conversations undermines success, and how to foster a culture where candid dialogue drives results. With actionable strategies and real-world insights, this session will equip you to embrace tension, resolve issues faster, and lead teams that collaborate at the highest level.

Speaker: Dr. Liane Davey, Organizational Psychologist, “Teamwork Doctor,” & New York Times Best-Selling Author

Host: Elvia Medina-Paraiso, Associate Director, Pharmacovigilance, Mitsubishi Tanabe Pharma America, Inc.

Reclaiming Ambition: Turning Pivots into Power Moves

What if a career pause wasn’t a setback—but a strategic move? What if a pivot or transition wasn’t a disruption—but a moment of radical clarity? In this bold and timely talk, Neha Ruch challenges outdated narratives around ambition, identity, success, and self-worth during life’s transitional seasons. Whether you’re stepping away, shifting direction, or simply reassessing what matters most, this session will help you reframe your mindset and recognize the power in the pause. Learn how to navigate transition and shed shame, reject stereotypes, and reclaim your voice with purpose and presence. This isn’t about what’s next—it’s about seeing where you are as a defining chapter in your leadership story.

Speaker: Neha Ruch, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Mother Untitled

Host: Racquel Williams, Community Impact Reporter, KYW Newsradio, Audacy

Power Circles: How to Build Your Personal Board of Advisors

Behind every powerful woman is a powerful circle. In this session, the Thought leader will give initial remarks to explore how to build your own personal board of advisors—mentors, peers, sponsors, and allies—who challenge you, champion your growth, and help you navigate what’s next. She will then be joined by a panel of professionals who will share actionable strategies to help you cultivate intentional relationships that fuel both professional and personal success so you gain a clear sense of who belongs in your circle—and how to find them. Whether you’re looking to expand your network or deepen the connections you already have, this session offers real talk, real strategies, and the inspiration to build your most powerful community yet.

Thought Leader: Danielle Bayard Jackson, Women’s Friendship Expert, Educator & Author

Panelists:

• Deborah Rivers, Global Supply Chain Executive, Johnson & Johnson
• Michelle Tepper, Director Strategic Relationships, Exude Benefits, a Division of Patriot Growth Insurance Services
• Courtney Wisecarver, Business Banking Support Executive, Bank of America

Host: Tiffany Tavarez, VP Community impact & Strategic Partnerships, Jefferson

Creating Financial Strength & Resilience in a Shifting World

In today’s turbulent economy—marked by inflation, rising costs, and financial uncertainty—building wealth can feel out of reach. But even in times of volatility, your financial future doesn’t have to be left to chance. In this bold and empowering session, Bola Sokunbi, founder of Clever Girl Finance, shares smart, actionable strategies to crush debt, grow real wealth, and stay retirement-ready without sacrificing the life you want now. Whether you’re living paycheck to paycheck, recovering from a setback, or looking to build momentum, this is your moment to take inventory, get clear on your goals, and make intentional money moves that reflect today’s challenges and tomorrow’s possibilities. You’ll leave with the confidence and tools to navigate uncertainty and create lasting financial freedom on your terms.

Speaker: Bola Sokunbi, Best-Selling Author and Founder, Clever Girl Finance

Host: Carol Lee Mitchell, Board Member, PA CFW

Making It Work—Just Not All at Once

Success isn’t about doing everything at once—it’s about knowing what matters most in each season of life. In this candid and inspiring session, Dr. Yun Mao shares how raising twins, caring for her parents, and navigating career pivots shaped her into the leader she is today. Through stories of prioritizing with grace, finding strength in pauses, and building a powerful support system, she reveals how life’s detours can fuel clarity and conviction. You’ll leave encouraged to embrace your own story—messy parts and all—as a source of strength, resilience, and authentic leadership.

Speaker: Dr. Yun Mao, VP, Drug Product Development, Bristol Myers Squibb

Leadership Rooted in Purpose, Fueled by Hope

What keeps a leader grounded in the face of disruption? In this heartfelt session, Loree D. Jones Brown, CEO of Philabundance, shares how purpose has guided her through crisis, uncertainty, and change. From leading during the pandemic to navigating complex challenges, you’ll hear real-world lessons on finding hope, fostering resilience, and staying connected to what matters most. Discover how community, collaboration, and intentional leadership can help you tap into your own purpose and lead others with clarity, strength, and heart.

Speaker: Loree Jones Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Philabundance

What Women Think, Feel and Loathe About Marketing Today

Marketers love to say they “know women,” but do they really? In 2025, women are redefining themselves: rethinking success, reprioritizing their energy, and rejecting brands that get it wrong. In this session, Susan English, SVP and Director of Strategic Communications at Gatesman, unveils Women ReKnown—a national study revealing how women’s self-concept, priorities, and needs are shifting, and what that means for marketers. Drawing on data, analysis, and women’s own words, Susan shares five key insights into how women feel today—from frustration with stereotypes to their longing for positivity and ease. Attendees will gain a fresh, nuanced perspective on women and practical guidance for building trust, loyalty, and authentic connection.

Speaker: Susan English, SVP, Director, Strategic Communications, Gatesman

Soaring with Purpose: Servant Leadership and Ownership Culture

What happens when a company leads with purpose and puts its people first? In this dynamic conversation, Wawa’s Chief People Officer Maria Kalogredis and Store Operations Leader Kim Rodriguez share how servant leadership shapes a culture where associates feel empowered, included, and inspired to grow. Learn how Wawa’s commitment to Fulfilling Lives extends to its teams, customers, and communities and how that culture of ownership unlocks real opportunity. Whether you’re curious about what makes Wawa’s culture so special or looking to build a more values-driven workplace, this session offers an inside look at the principles that help Wawa and its people thrive.

Speakers:

• Maria Kalogredis, Chief People Officer, Wawa
• Kim Rodriguez, Director, Store Operations, Wawa

How to Secure a Board Role

Ready to take a seat at the table? Serving on a nonprofit board is more than a résumé boost—it’s a chance to shape strategy, fuel impact, and champion causes you care about. In this practical and inspiring session, you’ll learn what board service really entails, from member responsibilities to the level of commitment required. Discover how to find the right fit by aligning your passion with an organization’s mission, and why doing your homework before joining is essential. With insider tips on how to prepare, engage, and add real value, you’ll leave ready to step into board leadership with confidence and purpose

Speaker: Kristina Parker, Audit Partner, KPMG LLP

How Respiratory Vaccines Help Fight Off Respiratory Illnesses This Fall

In today’s world, helping to protect yourself and your loved ones from respiratory diseases is more important than ever. In this session, Pfizer will share timely insights on certain risk factors, the potential impact of underlying medical conditions, and why prioritizing both personal and community health matters. Attendees will leave with practical resources and information intended to help support informed health decisions and access reliable information.

Speaker: Vanessa McCoy, Community Engagement Specialist, Pfizer

5 Easy Ways to Own the Room & Zoom

Whether you’re navigating boardrooms, living rooms, or breakout rooms, strong communication is your superpower. In this energizing mini masterclass, you’ll explore the power of embodying the 5Vs of Communication and gain practical tools to enhance your clarity, confidence, and presence. From high-stakes meetings to everyday conversations, you’ll learn how to show up and speak up with impact—wherever you are.

Speaker: Ankana Carpenter, SVP, Head of Consumer Deposit Technology & Executive Lead for Women, TD Bank

Details to be announced!