Thought Leadership Conference 2025: Full Schedule

TO PURCHASE TICKETS CLICK HERE

Once purchased you will receive an email with instructions to build your personal schedule.
**American Sign Language is provided for general sessions.

9:00am EDT

YOUTH ONLY: Youth Empowerment Symposium - YES!

Tuesday May 6, 2025 9:00am - 2:30pm EDT

St. Joseph Public Library

Presenters/Speakers

Tiffany (Reddick) McDaniel

Educator, Elevate Youth Mentoring

Tiffany McDaniel is a forward-thinking educator, dedicated mentor, and passionate advocate for growth and innovation in education. With a professional background that blends industry experience with education, she is dedicated to creating opportunities that empower young people to... Read More →

Aja K. Ellington

Mental Health Professional | Career Exploration Coordinator, Free Your Wings Youth Mentoring, Inc. | ACCESS, SBCSC

Aja K. Ellington, MSW, is a distinguished graduate of Indiana University and an award-winning mental health professional serving the Saint Joseph and Elkhart County communities. As the Founder and CEO of Free Your Wings Youth Mentoring, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth... Read More →

Breanna Allen, Ed.D

Executive Director, Tolson Center

My leadership philosophy is to be a servant leader who advocates for all by providing support, building alliances, and inspiring others. I want to be empathetic while encouraging others to reflect on their interests, explore their passions, pursue ambitions, and establish goals. The... Read More →

Stephanie Humphrey

Career Tech Lifestyle Influencer, Stephanie Humphrey

As your friendly neighborhood Tech-Life Expert, my mission is to show you how technology can make your life easier! Whether the topic is apps, gadgets, or social media, I'll take the mystery out of tech and break it down in a way that anyone can understand and relate to.My expertise... Read More →

Tuesday May 6, 2025 9:00am - 2:30pm EDT
St. Joseph Public Library

YOUTH

6:30pm EDT

COMMUNITY: Till Death Do You Tweet (Community Speaker) Free and open to the community

Tuesday May 6, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm EDT

St. Joseph Public Library - Auditorium

Digital Citizens Tips and Social Media Tools

‘Till Death Do You Tweet helps you help your kids become better digital citizens. You’ll get a rundown
of various social media platforms and the risks associated with them, plus resources and tools to start the important conversation about what online behavior should look like - along with other valuable information.

Free and open to the community.

Download Flyer

Presenters/Speakers

Stephanie Humphrey

Career Tech Lifestyle Influencer, Stephanie Humphrey

Tuesday May 6, 2025 6:30pm - 7:30pm EDT
St. Joseph Public Library - Auditorium

General Session

7:30am EDT

Registration

Wednesday May 7, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am EDT

Century Center - Foyer

Wednesday May 7, 2025 7:30am - 8:30am EDT
Century Center - Foyer

Making Connections

8:30am EDT

Welcome, Making connections, Acknowledgements

Wednesday May 7, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

The conference will open with a warm welcome and acknowledgment of all attendees, partners, and supporters. We will kick off this inspiring event by recognizing the collective commitment to fostering leadership, innovation, and positive change within our communities.

A special highlight of the opening will be the introduction of the Thought Leadership Giving Circle, in collaboration with the Johnson Center for Philanthropy at Grand Valley State University. This collaborative initiative aims to empower and engage individuals and organizations in purposeful giving, strengthening the impact of leadership in philanthropic endeavors. As an on-purpose not-for-profit, we are proud to align our mission with partners who share a dedication to making a meaningful difference in the world.

Visit the Thought Leadership Conference home page to nominate a non-profit with 501c3 status between April 8-18.

Presenters/Speakers

Tessa R. Sutton, Ph.D. (*)

Founder/President, Intercultural Relations Institute, Inc.

Tessa is an interculturalist and Diversity and Inclusion strategist with a proven track record of facilitating inclusion as a culture-change process to build a connected culture: leading, engaging, and working together in the community for the common good.As the Founder and President... Read More →

Drake Shrader

Executive Director, United Youth Theatre (UYT)

Drake Shrader is a South Bend native who has dedicated his career to supporting young people through youth development and the performing arts. His theatre journey began in high school, leading him to teach theatre and later co-found United Youth Theatre (UYT)—a nonprofit that helps... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 8:30am - 8:45am EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

8:45am EDT

Featured Presenter: Sharing Fire: A Philanthropic Approach to Leadership that Ignites the Possibilities in Others

Wednesday May 7, 2025 8:45am - 9:15am EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Sharing Fire is a form of leadership that emphasizes "teachership" over "beatership." It embraces the new area of positive psychology that is currently being advanced by thought leaders such as Simon Senik and Adam Grant and businessmen such as CEO Bob Chapman and Jason Lippert. It is a leadership approach that will help you leave a legacy that will be talked about positively for many years, and create impacts on people's lives that are profound. Join us for the 30-minute opening morning session and the 2-hour workshop the next day!

By The end of this session, attendees will:

Know how to become one of the most powerful philanthropist in the world - without using money!
Realize why it is crucial we must surround ourselves with people who are different from us.
Have the knowledge and tools to help others create a better personal and professional Life.

Presenters/Speakers

Marc Hardy, Ph.D.

Owner, Sharing Fire

Marc Hardy, Ph.D. has taught at Indiana University, Indianapolis, the University of Notre Dame and has taught nonprofit leadership and Butler University. Hardy is a graduate of the Ph.D. program in Philanthropic Studies at the Lilly Family School of Philanthropy at Indiana University... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 8:45am - 9:15am EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

9:15am EDT

Building Psychological Safety: Leadership Strategies for a Thriving Organization

Wednesday May 7, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

A discussion about how a leader develops psychological safety across the organization.

Presenters/Speakers

Larry Huff, Ed.D.

Superintendent, Elkhart Community Schools

Dr. Larry A. Huff currently serves as the Superintendent of Elkhart Community Schools, bringing a wealth of experience in educational leadership and student achievement.With a doctorate in school superintendency from Oakland City University (2020), Dr. Huff has dedicated his career... Read More →

Sarita Stevens, Ph.D.

Deputy Superintendent, South Bend Community School Corporation

Dr. Stevens was educated in Gary, Indiana and graduated from West Side High School in 1982. She obtained her Bachelor of Art from Iowa State University, her Master of Science in Education from Purdue University and her Doctorate in School Administration from Indiana State University... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 9:15am - 10:00am EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

10:00am EDT

Discovering the Connection Between The Subconscious Brain And Your Mind

Wednesday May 7, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Have you ever wondered why, when you focus on a problem and then go for a walk, take a nap, or go to bed, a solution suddenly ‘pops’ into your mind? This illustrates your subconscious brain at work. The mind is the brain ‘in action.’

Understanding how our brain functions is key to genuinely engaging in meaningful connections with diverse populations. This session presents the scientific links between the subconscious brain (encompassing our values, beliefs, and expectations) and its impact on our thoughts, feelings, and actions. By exploring our brains in greater depth, we can interrupt our thoughts, feelings, and actions to make effective choices and cultivate authentic, strategic connections.

During this session, attendees will gain the following:

Recognize how our unconscious brain patterns influence intercultural communication.
Develop strategic leadership skills by enhancing awareness of how the subconscious brain affects decision-making in times of conflict.

Presenters/Speakers

Darlene von Behren, Ed.D.

President, Strategic Leadership Communications, LLC

DARLENE VON BEHREN She has spent over 30 years in public education as a teacher and administrator in both USA and Canada. As an experienced teacher, she has taught at all education levels; elementary- multiage, middle, and high school curriculum for at-risk youth and adult education... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 10:00am - 10:30am EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

10:45am EDT

Leading with Balance: The Intersection of Leadership and Self-Care

Wednesday May 7, 2025 10:45am - 11:30am EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Presenters/Speakers

Kimberly Green Reeves, MPA

Executive Director, Community Impact, Beacon Health Systems

Kimberly received a Bachelor of Arts degree from Holy Cross College, Notre Dame and a Master of Public Affairs degree from Indiana University of South Bend. As the Executive Director of Community Impact, Kimberly provides oversight for health outreach in the region. She is responsible... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 10:45am - 11:30am EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

11:30am EDT

LUNCH BREAK: CONNECT-DISCOVER-DINE IN THE CITY

Wednesday May 7, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT

Experience Downtown South Bend and Make Meaningful Connections
Savor the incredible restaurants downtown South Bend, where towering skyscrapers and historic architecture set the stage for unforgettable dining and conversation.

Take this opportunity to meet new people, each bringing unique stories and perspectives.
Make time to build meaningful connections and engage in thought-provoking conversations.
Spark new collaborations that inspire fresh approaches to leadership and "glocal" impact.

Your next great idea or partnership might be just one conversation away.

Wednesday May 7, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm EDT

Making Connections

1:00pm EDT

Rhythmic Connections | Leadership Energizer

Wednesday May 7, 2025 1:00pm - 1:30pm EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Drumming experience emphasizes leadership. Collaborating within a community can produce all kinds of beauty and accomplishments.

Participants will learn new ways of listening to each other that foster group dynamics and value individual expression.

Presenters/Speakers

Vincenzo Carrasco

The Music Village

Vincenzo has more than 10 years of teaching experience and has been a professional drummer for almost 30 years. He was the lead drummer for UZIMA! Drum and Dance for many years, has performed with countless local bands, and is currently the drummer for a popular cover band called... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 1:00pm - 1:30pm EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

1:30pm EDT

Building Bridges: Community, Courage, Collaboration, and Trust

Wednesday May 7, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Presenters/Speakers

Amish Shah

CEO, KemKrest

An entrepreneur, community champion, and education enthusiast, Amish Shah has helped make the South Bend-Elkhart region a better place to live and work for over 25 years. As CEO since 2008, Amish has led Kem Krest to become a $500+ million supply chain and fulfillment business serving... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 1:30pm - 2:00pm EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

2:15pm EDT

The Evolution of Financial Literacy: Community Impact | Panel

Wednesday May 7, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Join us for an insightful panel discussion on The Evolution of Financial Literacy and Community Impact. This session will explore how financial literacy has evolved over the years, from basic budgeting and saving to wealth-building and financial independence. The expert panelists will discuss the transformative role that financial knowledge plays in individual lives and in creating stronger, more resilient communities. You will also gain knowledge that connects financial habits with real-life outcomes.
By the end of the session, participants will know:

The historical evolution of financial literacy and its impact on individuals and communities.
Key strategies to enhance financial literacy within their own networks and communities.
How financial literacy can empower individuals to build wealth and create lasting community impact.
Actionable steps to incorporate financial education in both personal and community settings to foster long-term financial well-being.

This session is designed to equip you with the tools and knowledge to make a tangible difference in your financial journey and the financial health of those around you.

Presenters/Speakers

Derrick Wesley

Financial Literacy CEO, Financial Literacy and Business Coach

Derrick Wesley is a seasoned State Farm Insurance agent with over 30 years of dedicated service in South Bend, Indiana. A 1988 graduate of Ball State University, he earned a degree in Business Administration and Insurance, laying a strong foundation for his illustrious career.Beyond... Read More →

Melannie Denise Cunningham

President/CEO, The Cunningham Network, Inc.

Melannie Denise Cunningham is a visionary leader, peacebuilder, and advocate for racial reconciliation with a lifelong dedication to justice and equity. She is the Founder, President, and CEO of Peace Works United, an organization committed to fostering peace in communities through... Read More →

Gudelia Sours

President, Latino Chamber of Commerce

Current president of the Latin American Chamber of Commerce, NIMBA Northern Indiana MinorityBusiness Association, and more. Working with our community helping to build the eco system.Celebrating over 25 years of experience working in the Promotional/Print industry working with ourcustomers... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 2:15pm - 3:00pm EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

3:00pm EDT

Closing | Summary

Wednesday May 7, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Wednesday May 7, 2025 3:00pm - 3:15pm EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

3:30pm EDT

Glocal Highlight Story: Kenyan Youth Leadership Collaboration

Wednesday May 7, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom North

Presenters/Speakers

Tessa R. Sutton, Ph.D. (*)

Founder/President, Intercultural Relations Institute, Inc.

Shaban Varajab

Team Leader/Founder, 42 Change Makers

Shaban Varajab is the Data and Accounting Manager for the GEAR UP South Bend! Project at South Bend Community School Corporation, focusing on college and career readiness. He holds a degree in Education (Math and Economics) from Moi University, Kenya, and a master's in International... Read More →

Wednesday May 7, 2025 3:30pm - 3:45pm EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom North

General Session

4:00pm EDT

The Power of Telling Stories: Building a Connected Culture Experience

Wednesday May 7, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom North

The Power of Telling Stories: Building a Connected Culture
Step into story circles, where voices come alive and personal experiences are shared in gatherings of three or more people. In this interactive session, participants will explore how storytelling and listening shape leadership, community, and collaboration, experiencing firsthand how stories strengthen capacity, cultivate culture, and deepen connection in meaningful ways. This is more than just a conversation—it is a shared experience. Join us in building a connected culture, one story at a time.

Presenters/Speakers

Tessa R. Sutton, Ph.D. (*)

Founder/President, Intercultural Relations Institute, Inc.

Shaban Varajab

Team Leader/Founder, 42 Change Makers

Wednesday May 7, 2025 4:00pm - 5:30pm EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom North

General Session

6:00pm EDT

Meet & Greet | Leadership Showcase

Wednesday May 7, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Atrium

Kick off the Thought Leadership Conference with an evening of meaningful connections and inspiring leaders. The Meet & Greet + Leadership Showcase is designed to bring together business, education, and community leaders in a dynamic space to network, exchange ideas, and celebrate leadership in action.
What to Expect:

Engage with Conference Speakers and Attendees – Build relationships with thought leaders, changemakers, and fellow participants.
Leadership Showcase – Explore innovative projects and initiatives shaping the future of leadership and community impact.
Interactive Networking – Connect in an intentional, welcoming environment designed to make connections.

Whether you are attending for the first time or are a returning participant, this event will provide an engaging, collaborative, and transformative conference experience. Join us and make connections that matter.

Download the flyer

Wednesday May 7, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Atrium 123 N. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard, South Bend, IN 46601

Making Connections

7:30am EDT

Registration | Check-In Station

Thursday May 8, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am EDT

Century Center - Foyer

Thursday May 8, 2025 7:30am - 9:00am EDT
Century Center - Foyer

Making Connections

8:00am EDT

Welcome, Making connections, Acknowledgements

Thursday May 8, 2025 8:00am - 8:30am EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Presenters/Speakers

Tessa R. Sutton, Ph.D. (*)

Founder/President, Intercultural Relations Institute, Inc.

Drake Shrader

Executive Director, United Youth Theatre (UYT)

Thursday May 8, 2025 8:00am - 8:30am EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

8:30am EDT

Featured Speaker: Innovation as Problem Solver

Thursday May 8, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Providing the steps taken to ingratiation new innovative approaches to compliance and ensuring diversity goals and transformative commitments are met.

By the end of this session attendees will:

Feel inspired to think more about their approach to impact and diversity
Want to update their approach on how they are monitoring their compliance
Connected to the work they are doing and want to explore more options

Presenters/Speakers

Tammi Davis

Director of Business Diversity and Workforce Development, Obama Foundation

Tammi Davis is a third-generation legacy of the Civil Rights Movement. She was born into the work of justice, equity, diversity and inclusion and has continued the work in her own right for over 20 years. With the experience of working in the public, private and non-profit industry... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 8:30am - 9:00am EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

9:15am EDT

Leadership Stories: Cultivating Civility and Connection in the Workplace

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Saint Mary's Room

In a highly polarized society, workforce relationships are strained, making civility and connection difficult. While this may be viewed as a challenge to some; it could be an opportunity.

Leadership stories can promote understanding, resolve conflict, and facilitate civil discourse and connection. This workshop offers a framework to understand how such stories can improve civility and connection in workforce relationships for increased community and organizational productivity.

Attendees will…

1. Create awareness of your stories to cultivate civility and connection.
2. Understand a framework for sharing attractive stories.
3. Identify opportunities to share your leadership stories in the workplace.

Presenters/Speakers

Thresette Briggs, DDI, MBA

Chief Performance Officer, Performance 3, LLC

Thresette is an award-winning author, speaker, facilitator and coach who is the Founder & Chief Performance Officer of Performance 3 (P3), a certified national leadership development firm with offices in Indiana and Virginia. P3 believes every leader can be high performing with the... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Saint Mary's Room

9:15am EDT

Collective Generosity: Participatory Giving Circle

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Notre Dame Room

Attendees will discover how collective giving is creating a new movement of diverse and representative voices that is changing who and what receives philanthropic funding. Participants will actively decide how to allocate funding to local organizations in a "pop-up" style giving circle. This experiential learning session has an impact -- highlighting why collective giving is important and how it can benefit communities in real-time generosity.

At the end of this session, attendees will:

Understand the nature and scope of collective giving: participants will be introduced to the concept of collective giving and learn about the latest findings in the field.
Participate in a giving circle: attendees will participate in a pop-up giving circle so they can experience firsthand the power of collective philanthropy. This process consists of a values-driven conversation that will enable a deeper connection between community members, a broader understanding of causes, and a greater connection to the impact donations create.
Redefine generosity moving forward: Exposure to the research and participation in a pop-up giving circle will give attendees a firmer understanding of this form of philanthropy's potential to transform the field.

Presenters/Speakers

Mandy Sharp Eizinger

Program Manager / Adjunct Professor, Dorothy A. Johnson Center for Philanthropy / Grand Valley State University

With more than 15 years of experience leading and facilitating training and professional development for nonprofit and philanthropic organizations, I bring a practitioner-based approach to nonprofit strategy, board development, volunteer management, and community engagement. Find... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Notre Dame Room

Economic Climate & Business Development Business

9:15am EDT

Everyday Leadership: Inclusion, Economics, and Impact

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

St. Joseph Public Library - Ballroom B

Presenters/Speakers

Bianca Jones

Manager of the Inclusion Project, City of South Bend Diversity and Inclusion

Bianca Jones is a dedicated professional from South Bend. Her diverse background encompasses accounting and finance, entrepreneurship, and project management. Born and raised in the vibrant community of South Bend, Bianca's roots run deep, fueling her passion for contributing positively... Read More →

Cynthia Simmons

Director of 311 Call Center, City of South Bend

Cynthia Simmons-Taylor is a seasoned professional with a diverse range of professionaltitles and roles throughout her career. Her notable positions include Legal Administrator,Utility Customer Service Manager, Director of South Bend 311 Customer Service CallCenter, and Human Rights... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
St. Joseph Public Library - Ballroom B

Economic Climate & Business Development Business

9:15am EDT

Bridging Gaps: Education, Workforce, and Community Partnerships for Economic Growth

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom B

This session explores the critical interdependence of education and workforce development, emphasizing the intentional strategies needed to align the two for maximum impact. Dive into the challenges posed by unmet social and emotional needs, particularly for students who often go unseen—the quietly disengaged. Learn how their struggles affect future workforce readiness and economic development. Discover how nonprofits serve as vital catalysts for bridging gaps between education and employment. Through actionable insights and real-world examples, we’ll explore how partnerships between schools, businesses, and community organizations can create meaningful, long-term solutions for empowering students and building stronger communities.

Presenters/Speakers

Tiffany (Reddick) McDaniel

Educator, Elevate Youth Mentoring

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom B

Educational Leadership

9:15am EDT

Somethings Up! Leadership Begins with You

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Bethel Room

Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like the ground you stand on is in constant flux? Is there so much information coming at you that you are becoming dizzy? We live in fractious times, making leadership complex. These challenges require us to have a firm grounding into who we are and our purpose. We need to develop the deft ability to dance with the chaos that surrounds us. Personal Leadership (PL) is school of self-leadership that offers both principles and practices to support you in finding & maintain your highest & best self.

By the end of the session, attendees will:

Learn how to use their whole selves when responding to challenges in their communities
Create a Personal Vision Statement
Practice deep reflection to uncover their ‘right-action’ in complex situations

Presenters/Speakers

Chris Cartwright, Ed.D.

Consultant, Portland State University

Chris Cartwright, MPA, Ed.D. is an assessment consultant, trainer, and instructor supporting individuals and organizations in assessing and developing inclusion, intercultural, and global competencies. He has 40+ years of experience in multiple sectors. He assesses, consults, coaches... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Bethel Room

Educational Leadership

9:15am EDT

Build the Board to Launch Your Mission

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom D

This interactive session will focus on recruiting, orientating, and empowering a board of directors to be ambassadors and fundraisers for your mission. Come and learn tactics, strategies, and intangibles for empowering a Nonprofit board of directors. Learn the important dynamics between the CEO and the Board President and the importance of strategic planning within Board Development. Don't like your organization's board culture? Change it.

By the end of this session, attendees will:

Be able to assess the strengths and weaknesses of their board members.
Know how to recruit and orientate a strong board of directors.
Be able to move from static board meetings to active board meetings.

Presenters/Speakers

Kevin Deary

Director of Professional and Organizational Development, Community Foundation of Elkhart County

Kevin is a former 30-year CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Elkhart County serving 4,500 members and six different Boards of Directors. Under Kevin's leadership the budget grew from $94k to $8m over that 30-year period. Kevin now is the Director of Professional/Organizational Development... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom D

Organizational or Community Culture

9:15am EDT

Emotional intelligence for Resilience in Challenging Times

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Salon A

Presenters/Speakers

Anita Rowe, Ph.D.

Partner, Emotional Intelligence and Diversity Institute

Anita Rowe, Ph.D. Is a partner in the Emotional Intelligence and Diversity Institue. For over 40 years she has been helping organizations develop more productive and inclusive cultures through her consulting , training and writing. She is co-author of Managing Diversity: A Complete... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Salon A

Organizational or Community Culture

9:15am EDT

Exploring the Subconscious Brain's Influence on Your Mind: Behaviors, Actions, Beliefs and Choicess

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Indiana Room

Have you ever made a decision that you knew in your gut was not the correct one? Do you know your brain makes an unconscious decision seven seconds before your conscious brain? This explains the basis of our perceptions and unconscious expectations. Come and learn more about how the brain processes information and how it impacts our perceptions and defines our cultural worldviews. This program will highlight how “we” process differences and similarities, maintain and deepen our understanding of our individual cultural heritage as we adapt our individual brain processes and develop inclusive behaviors. This is strategic leadership communications.

During this session attendees will gain:
1. Recognize how the brains' processes connect with our mind and our body.
2. Recognize how are subconscious brain records and interprets our experiences and our perceptions, that determines our values, beliefs, choices and ultimately our behaviors.

Presenters/Speakers

Darlene von Behren, Ed.D.

President, Strategic Leadership Communications, LLC

Thursday May 8, 2025 9:15am - 11:45am EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Indiana Room

Organizational or Community Culture

11:45am EDT

LUNCH BREAK: CONNECT-DISCOVER-DINE IN THE CITY

Thursday May 8, 2025 11:45am - 1:00pm EDT

Take this opportunity to meet new people, each bringing unique stories and perspectives.
Make time to build meaningful connections and engage in thought-provoking conversations.
Spark new collaborations that inspire fresh approaches to leadership and "glocal" impact.

Your next great idea or partnership might be just one conversation away.

Thursday May 8, 2025 11:45am - 1:00pm EDT

Making Connections

1:15pm EDT

Championing Youth Through the Arts

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom D

In this session, we will explore the transformative power of the arts in shaping the lives of young people. Participants will gain deeper insights into how the arts can foster confidence, creativity, and community among youth, especially in underserved areas. We'll discuss the importance of cross-sector collaboration and how partnerships between organizations, schools, and communities can increase access, inclusion, and sustainability in the arts. Attendees will also receive practical tools for designing arts programs that promote leadership, empathy, entrepreneurship, and positive youth development. Through interactive discussions and real-world examples, we will demonstrate how creating access to the arts can positively impact youth, enhance academic outcomes, and equip them with essential life skills.

By the end of this session, attendees will:

Understand the transformative impact of the arts on youth and their development.
Recognize the importance of cross-sector collaboration in creating access and inclusion in the arts.
Gain practical tools and strategies for designing arts programs that foster leadership, empathy, and positive youth outcomes.

Presenters/Speakers

Drake Shrader

Executive Director, United Youth Theatre (UYT)

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom D

1:15pm EDT

Leadership Stories: Cultivating Civility and Connection in the Workplace

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Saint Mary's Room

Presenters/Speakers

Thresette Briggs, DDI, MBA

Chief Performance Officer, Performance 3, LLC

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Saint Mary's Room

Educational Leadership

1:15pm EDT

Somethings Up! Leadership Begins with You

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Bethel Room

Somethings Up! Leadership Begins with You
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Do you feel like the ground you stand on is in constant flux? Is there so much information coming at you that you are becoming dizzy? We live in fractious times, making leadership complex. These challenges require a firm grounding in who we are and our purpose. We need to develop the deft ability to dance with the chaos surrounding Leadership (PL), a school of self-leadership that offers principles and practices to support you in finding and maintaining your highest and best self.

Learners will:

Learn how to use their whole selves when responding to challenges in their communities
Create a Personal Vision Statement
Practice deep reflection to uncover their ‘right-action’ in complex situations

Presenters/Speakers

Chris Cartwright, Ed.D.

Consultant, Portland State University

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Bethel Room

Educational Leadership

1:15pm EDT

Culture as a Catalyst: Building Inclusive Organizations & Communities

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Indiana Room

Culture isn’t just a set of values written on a wall—it’s the lived experience of people within an organization or community. It determines how work gets done, who is included, and whose voices shape decisions. In this interactive session, we’ll explore how shared beliefs, values, and behaviors create the foundation for culture, and how leaders can intentionally foster equity, social justice, and inclusion. Participants will gain practical tools to assess, shift, and sustain a culture that reflects their deepest commitments to justice and belonging. Whether you are shaping organizational policies or community practices, this workshop will equip you with actionable strategies to move from intention to impact.

By the end of this session, attendees will:

Identify key cultural dynamics within their organization or community that influence equity, social justice, and inclusion.
Learn practical strategies to assess and shift organizational culture toward greater belonging and accountability.
Develop an action plan to implement culture-driven change that aligns with their values and leadership goals.

Presenters/Speakers

Melannie Denise Cunningham

President/CEO, The Cunningham Network, Inc.

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Indiana Room

Organizational or Community Culture

1:15pm EDT

Emotional Labor: Fostering Connection Without Burnout in Polarized Times

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom B

A CILMAR staff member once told me: “One of the kindest things that you ever did for me as a supervisor was to introduce me to the theory of emotion labor.” In this workshop, facilitators will give insight as to how the theory of emotion labor plays out in education and other sectors, and who Dr. Acheson’s research suggests may be especially susceptible to burnout. Through experiential activities and group dialogue, participants will consider how they can use knowledge of emotion labor theory to monitor and manage their own wellbeing as well as to create a more supportive environment for their peers, employees, students, and community members. Attendees will also learn practical strategies for recovering from periods of intensive emotion labor demands, discuss why people of some social identities may feel more pressure than others to perform emotion labor, and question the application of the theory to our institutions and communities’ current climates. Along the way, participants will be given the opportunity to examine their own experiences with emotion labor and reflect on their own more and less sustainable responses to it.

By the end of this session, attendees will:

Articulate Emotion Labor theory in everyday language
Reflect on their own and others’ experiences performing emotion labor
Imagine how an intentional application of emotion labor could impact their institutions and communities as well as their own personal wellbeing

Presenters/Speakers

Annette Benson

CILMAR's Senior Public Relations Consultant, Purdue University

Since 2003, Annette Benson has served in a variety of administrative roles at Purdue University,including oversight of an ESOL program, HR training in diversity and inclusion, creation ofintegration and intercultural learning programs, management of the Intercultural Learning Hub,and... Read More →

Kris Acheson-Clair, Ph.D.

CILMAR, Purdue

Dr. Kris Acheson earned a PhD in Intercultural Communication from Arizona State University in 2008. Before coming to Purdue University in 2016, she served as a faculty member in Applied Linguistics at Georgia State University for 7 years and was awarded a yearlong Fulbright Scholar... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
St. Joseph Public Library - Classroom B

Organizational or Community Culture

1:15pm EDT

Inclusion as a Culture Change Process: A Strategic Approach

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Salon A

Leaders face demographic shifts and the need for agile, innovative workplaces in today's dynamic landscape. To thrive in this era, thought leaders must collaborate across organizational, industry, and community lines to achieve goals and meet the bottom line. Our interconnected spaces require three key actions: understanding the various dimensions of difference, recognizing their impact on the organization, and executing a systemic approach to drive a culture of inclusion.

During this session, participants will gain insight into elements of the organization's structural system that operationalize inclusion as a culture change process essential for fostering growth and innovation.

At the end of this session, participants will leave with tools and frameworks to use in your organization to help people:

Understand the inclusive and wide range of human dimensions
Assess the impact of diversity and inclusion in your organization
Turn inclusion into everyday practices by analyzing the organizational structure to change the culture

Presenters/Speakers

Tessa R. Sutton, Ph.D. (*)

Founder/President, Intercultural Relations Institute, Inc.

Anita Rowe, Ph.D.

Partner, Emotional Intelligence and Diversity Institute

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Salon A

Organizational or Community Culture

1:15pm EDT

Sharing Fire: A Philanthropic Approach to Leadership that Ignites the Possibilities in Others

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT

Doubletree Hotel - Notre Dame Room

Sharing Fire is a form of leadership that emphasizes "teachership" over "beatership." It embraces the new area of positive psychology that is currently being advanced by thought leaders such as Simon Senik and Adam Grant and businessmen such as CEO Bob Chapman and Jason Lippert. It is a leadership approach that will help you leave a legacy that will be talked about positively for many years, and create impacts on peoples lives that are profound.

By the end of this session, attendees will:

Know how to become one of the most powerful philanthropist in the world - without using money!
Realize why it is crucial we must surround ourselves with people who are different from us.
Have the knowledge and tools to help others create a better personal and professional Life.

Presenters/Speakers

Marc Hardy, Ph.D.

Owner, Sharing Fire

Thursday May 8, 2025 1:15pm - 3:45pm EDT
Doubletree Hotel - Notre Dame Room

Organizational or Community Culture

4:00pm EDT

Worldview Religion and Peace Perspectives | Panel

Thursday May 8, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT

Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

Presenters/Speakers

Mana Derakhshani, Ph.D.

Professor Emeritus, Saint Marys College

Experienced Professor with a demonstrated history of working in higher education. Skilled in Intercultural Communication, Lecturing, and Diversity Training. Strong education professional with a Ph.D. focused in French from University of Utah.

Kendra Key, J.D.

General Cousel, South Bend Community School Corporation

Kendra Nicole Key serves as General Counsel for the South Bend Community School Corporation. She rejoins the South Bend area after supporting access efforts with the Indiana Supreme Court as Staff Attorney for the State's Coalition for Court Access and Director of the ICLEO pre-law... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 4:00pm - 4:45pm EDT
Century Center - Discovery Ballroom South

General Session

5:00pm EDT

Meet and Greet with Lex Gillette

Thursday May 8, 2025 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT

Century Center - Bendix Theatre

Presenters/Speakers

Lex Gillette

USA Paralympian, Athlete + Motivational Speaker

Lex Gillette is a world-renowned Paralympic track and field athlete for Team USA. Specializing in the long jump, he holds five Paralympic medals, four world championships, and the current world record. Lex is the only totally blind athlete to surpass 22 feet in the event. Losing his... Read More →

Thursday May 8, 2025 5:00pm - 6:00pm EDT
Century Center - Bendix Theatre 120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

General Session

6:00pm EDT

Thought Leader Awards | Continuing the Conversation: No Need For Sight When You Have a Vision | Book Signing

Thursday May 8, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT

Century Center - Bendix Theatre

The evening will begin with the presentation of the Thought Leader Excellence Awards to community members. This will be followed by a special performance, concluding with an exclusive interview with Lex Gillette.

The event is FREE and open to the public.
Download Flyer

Presenters/Speakers

Lex Gillette

USA Paralympian, Athlete + Motivational Speaker

Thursday May 8, 2025 6:00pm - 7:30pm EDT
Century Center - Bendix Theatre 120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

General Session