Thought Leadership Conference 2025: Full Schedule

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

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

305 South Michigan Street, South Bend, IN, USA

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

BEI 2 Advanced Interpreter, Indiana IIC

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 6:30pm - 7:30pm EDT
St. Joseph Public Library - Auditorium

General Session

8:30am EDT

Welcome, Making connections, Acknowledgements

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

1:00pm EDT

Rhythmic Connections | Leadership Energizer

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

Presenters/Speakers

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

Founder/President, Intercultural Relations Institute, Inc.

Shaban Varajab

Data and Accounting Manager, Gear Up South Bend

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

Data and Accounting Manager, Gear Up South Bend

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

General Session

8:00am EDT

Welcome, Making connections, Acknowledgements

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

4:00pm EDT

Worldview Religion and Peace Perspectives | Panel

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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

120 Doctor M.L.K. Jr Blvd, South Bend, IN 46601

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