Women's Leadership Conference 2024

  • Date5/21/2024
  • Time8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
  • Address
    Raleigh Convention & Performing Arts Complex
    500 S Salisbury St
    Raleigh, NC 27601
    Map
  • Info



    The Raleigh Chamber Women’s Leadership Conference accelerates leadership development for women. The conference provides women with the knowledge and skills needed to have a greater impact and broader influence within their organizations.

    Presented by the Raleigh Chamber and PNC, the conference is the Triangle’s most impactful event for advancing women in their careers. With an attendance of over 1,000 emerging and established business leaders, attendees will build their professional network and expand their executive skill set in one dynamic day.

    The conference includes a morning session and six interactive breakouts that develop leadership skills by offering resources, best practices, and real-life strategies attendees can bring back to their organizations. Following the breakouts and lunch, attendees will hear from a well-known speaker for a keynote address.

    Event Agenda
    *Times and sessions are tentative and subject to change.

    8 – 8:45 a.m. | Registration Opens, Networking, and Sponsor Tables
    8:30 – 9:15 a.m. | Opening Panel Discussion: Generational Voices in Leadership
    This engaging session will bring together women leaders from different generations to share their insights and experiences navigating the challenges and opportunities in the workplace. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z, our panelists will offer diverse perspectives on leadership, career advancement, and overcoming barriers. This dynamic panel will highlight the strength of generational diversity and inspire attendees to lead with confidence and resilience.

    • Kellie Falk, Managing Director of Drucker & Falk, LLC
    • Laura Gwyn, Managing Partner at Perkins & Will
    • Espy Harper, Associate Principal at LS3P Associates, Ltd.
    • Hunter Mundy-Ferrell, Development Manager at Carolina Small Business Development Fund
    • Lauren Romer, Director of Raleigh Founded (moderator)

    9:15 – 9:30 a.m. | Transition to Breakout 1/Networking
    9:30 – 10:15 a.m. | Breakout Session 1
    10:15 – 10:30 a.m. | Transition to Breakout Session 2/Networking
    10:30 – 11:15 a.m. | Breakout Session 2
    11:15 – 11:30 a.m. | Transition to Breakout Session 3/Networking
    11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. | Breakout Session 3
    12:15 – 12:30 p.m. | Transition to Lunch/Networking
    12:30 – 1 p.m. | Lunch Service
    1 – 1:10 p.m. | Intro to Keynote Speaker/Presenting Sponsor Remarks
    1:10 – 1:55 p.m. | Keynote Address by Sam Rapoport, Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion for the National Football League

    1:55 – 2 p.m. | Closing Remarks

    Breakout Sessions:
    Destination Leadership: Charting Your Course
    This session will feature diverse, accomplished women sharing their personal stories of triumphs, challenges, and pivotal moments in their leadership journeys. From navigating career transitions to overcoming obstacles, attendees will gain invaluable insights, inspiration, and practical strategies for embracing their own unique paths to leadership success.
    Confirmed Presenters:

    • Patrice Gilmore-Haley, Sr. Supplier Diversity Program Manager at DPR Construction
    • Joanna Roses Ryan, Founder & CEO of Joanna Roses Coaching

    Mastering Communication as a Leader

    This session is designed to help attendees understand their unique communication styles and explore strategies for effectively communicating with others in diverse leadership roles. By embracing their individual communication styles and learning to adapt to the communication preferences of others, attendees will enhance their ability to lead with authenticity, empathy, and influence.
    Confirmed presenters:

    • Abha Bowers, CEO of Walk West
    • McGavock Edwards, Partner/SVP at E&V Strategic Communications

    Leading in the Ever-Evolving Workplace
    Experience an insightful panel discussion that will delve into the rapidly advancing landscape of the modern workplace. Explore how technological innovations, including artificial intelligence, are reshaping work dynamics, and offering new avenues for leaders. From navigating remote and hybrid work models to fostering collaboration across generations, this session will equip attendees with practical strategies for success in today's ever-evolving environment.
    Confirmed presenters:

    • Enovia Bedford, Digital Coach at NC Google Grow
    • Jessica Jolley, Senior Director, People Programs and DEI at Pendo
    • Dr. Scott Ralls, President of Wake Technical Community College
    • Pat Sturdivant, Executive Director of Capital Area Workforce Development (moderator)

    Pathways to Leadership: Maximizing Networking Opportunities
    In this breakout session, attendees will learn practical strategies and techniques for maximizing networking opportunities to enhance their leadership journey. From leveraging digital platforms to fostering authentic connections, participants will gain insights into effective networking practices to assist their unique career paths.
    Confirmed presenters:

    • Tyra Sitton, Senior Communications Director of North America at Merz Aesthetics
    • Tamara Terry, Director of Academic Research Engagement at RTI International
    • Dr. Saundra Wall Williams, CEO of WMS Leadership Solutions

    Breaking Boundaries: Rising Above the Rung
    Attendees will explore the concepts of breaking through barriers and rising above the metaphorical "rung" that hinders women's advancement to senior leadership positions. Through engaging discussions and interactive activities, participants will uncover strategies for overcoming systemic obstacles, challenging traditional norms, and charting their path to leadership success.
    Confirmed presenter:

    • Kasey Ashton, Director, Wake Invest In Women (moderator)
    • Marchell Adams-David, Raleigh City Manager at City of Raleigh
    • Dr. Barbara Griffith, President of Duke Raleigh Hospital
    • Angela Watson, President & CEO of Shepley Bulfinch

    Semi-Structured Networking
    Step into the networking breakout room and connect with fellow attendees for a structured networking session to facilitate meaningful connections and conversations. Whether you are seeking mentorship, collaboration opportunities, or simply looking to expand your professional network, this is the perfect opportunity to make valuable connections. Engage in purposeful discussions, exchange ideas, and forge new relationships with like-minded leaders.

    • Patty Briguglio, President of PFB Connect (facilitator)


    Women's Leadership Conference has been registered for SHRM Credit. Attendees will receive 4.25 PDCs from this conference.
    After the event, attendees will receive a certificate via email stating they have completed 4.25 PDCs.


    No refunds after May 10

    For content questions, call 919.664.7037 or email Devin Brown.
    For logistics questions, call 919.664.7080 or email Sarah Sterling.
    For registration questions, call 919.664.7011 or email Jen Palmer.
    For sponsorship information, email sales@raleighchamber.org.

    Let’s Get Social!
    @raleighchamber
    #RaleighWLC24

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  • Phone(919) 831-6011
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