MARCH 6 - 7, 2025
Women in Business: Connect, Empower, Succeed
A free virtual conference hosted by Gies Graduate Programs
Join us for an empowering experience dedicated to fostering connections, sharing inspiration, and supporting women in achieving their fullest potential. With a dynamic agenda featuring industry leaders, engaging panel discussions, and actionable insights, this event is designed to leave you both informed and inspired. Join like-minded professionals, expand your network, and gain practical tools to elevate your career.
Don’t miss out—secure your spot today and be part of this valuable experience!
Agenda for Thursday, March 6
1:00 - 2:00pm CT
The Success Mindset
Speaker: Denise Maple, Clinical Assistant Professor of Finance at the University of Illinois' Gies College of Business
Success can happen in many ways. And, we have a choice. That success can be a hard-fought battle or an enjoyable endeavor. Learn how mindset is just as important to success as strategy and completing tasks. Let's discuss the mindset and tools necessary to overcome challenges, set and achieve meaningful goals, and unlock your full potential. Whether you're looking to excel in your career, personal life, or any other area, this session provides the guidance and inspiration needed to make success a reality.
2:00 - 2:50pm CT
Navigating Leadership: Lessons from a Lifetime of Experience
Speaker: Dr. Cheryl Hanley-Maxwell, Dean of the College of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Illinois
This session focuses on the speaker’s journey through the evolving landscape of women's leadership. Drawing from experiences that span decades, she reflects on the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her path. Attendees will hear about pivotal moments, such as overcoming gender-based barriers, the importance of kindness and advocacy, and the critical lessons learned from various leadership roles. This session offers practical advice on how to navigate the complexities of leadership with resilience and authenticity.
3:00 - 3:50pm CT
The Secrets of Having a Difficult Conversation
Speaker: Sparkle Sanders, Trainer | Speaker | Executive & Life Coach
Avoiding that hard conversation? Filled with anxiety, pressure, and apprehension by the thought of it? Attend this powerful session and discover not only the secrets and practical steps to having difficult conversations, but also to easing your emotions before, during, and after it. You'll learn the framework and how to prepare, practice, and ultimately embrace the very thing you’ve been afraid to address. You’ll walk away with not only the tools to succeed, but also the peace and confidence needed to thrive in these challenging conversations. The session will be two-fold: you’ll spend time learning the framework and then applying it in real-time.
4:00 - 4:50pm CT
Celebrating Resilience: Navigating Career Transitions and Pivots
Panelists: Lauren Irving, Chelsea Doman, Sai Asam, Valeria Fournet
Join Women Who Rule as we explore the bold journeys women take to redefine their careers. Our diverse panelists have transitioned across industries, navigated career breaks, and conquered the challenges of change. This session will offer you valuable insights, strategies, and a chance to connect with peers in a unique speed networking format. Whether you’re looking to pivot, expand, or simply get inspired, this event is designed to help you own your next step with confidence and purpose. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate resilience, embrace change, and empower each other.
Agenda for Friday, March 7
9:00 - 9:50am CT
Volunteering: A Gateway to Growth and Connection
Speaker: Michelle Gonzales, Executive Director CU Schools Foundation
Join us for an engaging networking session that explores the powerful benefits of volunteering. Whether you're looking to expand your professional network, develop new skills, or make a meaningful impact in your community, volunteering offers unique opportunities for personal and career growth. This interactive event will include: guided activities to help you identify volunteer opportunities that align with your goals and passions and networking with like-minded peers who share a commitment to making a difference. Come prepared to connect, collaborate, and leave inspired to take the next step on your volunteering journey.
10:00 - 10:50am CT
Wisdom Within: Leveraging Life’s Lessons
Panelists: Dr. Danita Brown Young, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at the University of Illinois
Don’t let trials and tribulations steal your power and hinder your success. Learn from my life lessons to navigate your career journey with confidence. By embracing the process, you can unlock your full potential, make decisions aligned with your values and pave the way to success.
11:00 - 11:50am CT
From Idea to Reality: Starting Up with Confidence
Speaker: Cara Bognar, Founder and CEO Top Tier Lessons
Join Cara Bognar, CEO of Top Tier Lessons, as she shares her inspiring journey of launching a successful startup. In this engaging session, Cara will delve into the common themes and challenges she encountered along the way, offering valuable insights and practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Learn how she navigated the ups and downs of the startup world, gained confidence, and turned her vision into a thriving business. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your venture to the next level, this talk will provide you with the motivation and tools you need to succeed.
12:00 - 12:50pm CT
Empowerment in Action: Networking and Program Insights
Join us for the closing session of Women in Business: Connect, Empower, Succeed. This interactive session will recap key takeaways from the two-day event, leaving you inspired and ready to take your next professional steps. You'll have the opportunity to network with fellow attendees and Gies College of Business representatives. Breakout rooms will provide insights into Gies graduate programs and address your specific questions. We'll wrap up with a brief Q&A to ensure you leave equipped with actionable knowledge and meaningful connections.