March 18th - March 19th
L.E.A.D. Conference Agenda
Hi Shameless Improv, welcome to your L.E.A.D. full Conference agenda. Click the button below to get started.
Start
Click on each day to view your full conference schedule and your registered breakout sessions. Tap the + icon for more details about the L.E.A.D. conference.
Day 1 Sessions
Day 2 Sessions
Resources
Home
DAy 1 Agenda
9:00 AM - 10:00AM
Steady in the Chaos
Matt Blickley
Leading Through Multiple Crises
Conference ABDE
10:05 AM - 11:00 AM
Understanding the Human Experience of Change
Kristy Busija
From Reaction to Readiness
Ash
Talent Magnet
Nicole Higginbotham
Leading to Retain & Develop Talent
Maple
Building Team Culture
Dr. Bryle Henderson Hatch
Beyond the Trust Fall
Conference ABDE
11:05 AM - 12:00 PM
Shellisa Multrie
Craft Your Leadership Story
Authentic Leadership at Every Stage
Dogwood
Russell Dye
B.O.L.D. Leadership
Finding Your Voice & Owning Your Seat at the Table
Cypress
Kendra Miller
High Fives & Hard Lines
Using Supportive Accountabilty to Lead Your Teams to Success
Conference ABDE
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Leadership That Lands
Nicole F. Smith
Communicating with Impact In High Stakes Moments
Conference ABDE
2:05 PM - 3:00 PM
AI in Action
AI Committee
Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Dogwood
AI in Action
AI Committee
Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Conference ABDE
3:05 PM - 4:00 PM
Lead the Change, Live the Practice
Maude Moreno
A 360° Wellness Framework for Effective Leadership
Conference ABDE
DAy 2 Agenda
9:00 AM - 10:00AM
Game Plan for Growth:
Jessica Bronzert
Coaching Your Team to Success
Conference ABDE
10:05 AM - 11:00 AM
Leading Change with Clarity, Confidence, and Action
Kristy Busija
Turning Insight into Momentum
Ash
Leading Generational Diversity
Gina Esquivel
Bridging Perspectives for Stronger Teams
Maple
Micro-Behaviors, Major Impact
Cindy Cooper
The Road to Clear Communication & Collaboration
Birch
11:05 AM - 12:00 PM
Dr. Carrie O. Graham
Been There, Done That
Learning from Each Other's Wins
Cypress
Liz McBride
Navigating AI Transformation
Beyond the Prompt
Ash
Dae-Lee Arrington
Evolve to Lead
Critical Trends Shaping Leadershop Today
Conference ABDE
12:45PM - 1:45 PM
Work Made Fun Gets Done
Shameless Improv
Improv for Leaders
Conference ABDE
Resources
meet the Team
Explore the venue
FAQ
Leadership Development site
Share pictures here
L.E.A.D. Networking Event
Meet the Team
Michelle Horton
Bio
Shelley-Tyler Smith
Bio
Rodolfo Alfaro
Bio
Tia Jessup
Bio
Steven Mitchell
Bio
Michelle Horton
Vice President of Talent Development
Fearless and authentic leader always ready for a mic drop moment.
As VP of Talent Development at GISP and founder of YOUniversity Drive, she empowers individuals through career training and coaching. A recognized leader and mentor, Michelle holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University, but her greatest joy is being a mother to her two children.
close
Conference ABDE 9:00am - 10:00am
Speaker: Matt Blickley
Priority Session
Steady in the Chaos: Leading Through Multiple Crises
The world isn't slowing down - and neither are the challenges coming at you and your team. Economic shifts, global tensions, organizational change and personal pressures. When it all hits at once, how do you stay grounded and lead effectively? Whether you're leading for the first time or leading through your tenth crisis, you'll walk away with actionable tools to stay steady, focused, and effective - no matter what comes next. Because great leaders don't wait for the chaos to calm down. They step forward through it.
close
Conference ABDE 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Kendra Miller
Breakout Session
High Fives & Hard Lines: Using Supportive Accountability to Lead Your Teams to Success
Learn to strike the balance between empathy and accountability that drives real team performance. Based on the book Supportive Accountability, this workshop equips leaders with practical tools to set clear expectations, deliver meaningful feedback, and follow through with consistency. Participants will develop skills to hold supportive yet firm accountability conversations that maintain trust while driving results.
close
Shelley Tyler-Smith
Manager of Learning & Organizational Development
Considers herself to be an amateur comedienne and thinks she funny even if no one else does.
Talent Development professional who manages the Learning and Organizational Development team at GISP. Her specialty is crafting learning experiences that connect theory with real-world practice. She loves fashion, music, community outreach, and traveling.
close
Conference ABDE 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Speaker: Nicole F. Smith
Priority Session
Leadership That Lands: Communicating with Impact In High Stakes Moments
When pressure is high, emotional intelligence becomes essential for effective leadership. This session explores how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and social intelligence shape communication and trust in mission-driven environments. Through real scenarios and a practical framework, leaders learn to read the room, communicate under stress, and repair misalignment to strengthen collaboration.
close
Rodolfo Alfaro
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator
Man of few words because the actions speak for themself.
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator with over 14 years of experience.
I am a dedicated and experienced Training Coordinator with a passion for fostering employee development and organizational growth.
I enjoy traveling to Charleston to visit with my daughter and playing Tennis.
close
Michelle Horton
Vice President of Talent Development
Fearless and authentic leader always ready for a mic drop moment.
As VP of Talent Development at GISP and founder of YOUniversity Drive, she empowers individuals through career training and coaching. A recognized leader and mentor, Michelle holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University, but her greatest joy is being a mother to her two children.
close
Shelley Tyler-Smith
Manager of Learning & Organizational Development
Considers herself to be an amateur comedienne and thinks she funny even if no one else does.
Talent Development professional who manages the Learning and Organizational Development team at GISP. Her specialty is crafting learning experiences that connect theory with real-world practice. She loves fashion, music, community outreach, and traveling.
close
Ash 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Kristy Busija
Breakout Session
Understanding the Human Experience of Change: From Reaction to Readiness
Change is constant—but people’s reactions to it are anything but predictable. In this session, leaders focus on the human side of change: what people experience, why resistance shows up, and how leaders unintentionally amplify or reduce it.
Participants will explore how individuals and teams process change, including the emotional and behavioral responses that influence engagement, trust, and performance.
close
Ash 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Liz McBride
Breakout Session
Navigating AI Transformation: Beyond the Prompt
As AI becomes part of everyday work, leaders must help their teams adapt with confidence. This workshop focuses on the people side of change, including how to address fears, communicate clearly about new tools, and create a culture where experimentation feels safe. Through real examples and discussion, you’ll learn how to identify supporters, maintain momentum, and guide your team through a smooth, successful AI transition—no matter where your organization is starting.
close
ABOUT THE EVENT
L.E.A.D. Conference
The L.E.A.D. Conference will be a transformative experience for GISP leaders, focusing on the essential pillars of Learning, Engagement, Accountability, and Development. This day-and-a-half conference is designed to equip our leaders with the tools and insights needed to drive meaningful change, foster whole-person leadership and development, and inspire teams to reach their highest potential.
Dogwood 2:05pm - 3:00pm
Speaker: AI Committee
Breakout Session
AI in Action: Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Stop wondering what AI can do and start experiencing it firsthand. In this interactive prompt‑a‑thon, you’ll use CoPilot to tackle real workplace challenges and learn how effective prompting can save time, spark creativity, and support better decisions. Bring your tablet or laptop, your curiosity, and one challenge you want to solve, and leave with practical techniques and the confidence to use AI in your leadership work right away.
close
Steven Mitchell
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
“I live every day, laugh at everything and everyone (including myself), and love without boundaries.”
Steven is a highly organized professional with broad-based experience in retail management, curriculum and instructional design, training, and development in adult learning.
Steven enjoys the art of education and believes in life-long learning. Over the last 4 years, Steven has obtained certifications in Leadership and Management, Strategic Organizational Leadership, Diversity & Corporate Ethics Management, Project Management and became a DiSC Practitioner.
close
Conference ABDE 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Dae-Lee Arrington
Breakout Session
Evolve to Lead: Critical Trends Shaping Leadership Today
Leadership is changing fast, and what worked last year may not work tomorrow. This research‑based session explores the trends reshaping leadership in 2026 and beyond, including AI’s growing role in decision‑making, the rising need for human‑centered skills, the move toward adaptive team structures, and the increasing importance of wellbeing. You’ll review data on what’s shifting, why it matters, and how to prepare your team for what’s next. Participants leave with evidence‑based insights and practical strategies to stay ahead of the curve.
close
Maple 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Gina Esquivel
Breakout Session
Leading Generational Diversity: Bridging Perspectives for Stronger Teams
From Gen Z to Boomers, today’s teams span a wide range of communication styles, expectations, and values. This session moves beyond stereotypes to uncover what truly drives each generation and how to lead them effectively. You’ll learn to adapt your communication, use generational strengths, and build a culture where everyone feels valued. Through real scenarios and practical strategies, you’ll learn to bridge common friction points and turn generational differences into a competitive advantage.
close
Tia Jessup
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
Professional dot‑connector and proud Beyhive member.
Tia is a forever learner. With a doctorate in progress, she excels in curriculum design, program development, and eLearning. A dynamic facilitator, Tia brings energy, intention, and support to every space she enters. Outside of work, she’s all about personal growth, fitness, music, and family—plus, she can’t resist a corny joke!
close
Steven Mitchell
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
“I live every day, laugh at everything and everyone (including myself), and love without boundaries.”
Steven is a highly organized professional with broad-based experience in retail management, curriculum and instructional design, training, and development in adult learning.
Steven enjoys the art of education and believes in life-long learning. Over the last 4 years, Steven has obtained certifications in Leadership and Management, Strategic Organizational Leadership, Diversity & Corporate Ethics Management, Project Management and became a DiSC Practitioner.
close
Conference ABDE 3:05pm - 4:00pm
Speaker: Maude Moreno
Priority Session
Lead the Change, Live the Practice: A 360° Wellness Framework for Effective Leadership
Leadership requires intentional action, especially during high turnover, rapid change, and constant urgency. This session introduces The Grounded Edge, a six-part wellness framework that strengthens focus, steadiness, communication, and decision-making in real time. Leaders will leave with simple micro‑practices they can use anywhere and a roadmap that can grow into a long‑term leadership wellness initiative.
close
Rodolfo Alfaro
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator
Man of few words because the actions speak for themself.
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator with over 14 years of experience.
I am a dedicated and experienced Training Coordinator with a passion for fostering employee development and organizational growth.
I enjoy traveling to Charleston to visit with my daughter and playing Tennis.
close
Ash 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Kristy Busija
Breakout Session
Leading Change with Clarity, Confidence, and Action:Turning Insight into Momentum
With a shared understanding of how people experience change, this session shifts to leading it well. Participants will apply the Change Leadership Diagnostic to their own change initiative, assessing readiness, uncovering barriers to adoption, and identifying leadership opportunities that accelerate progress. Leaders will translate diagnostic insights into practical, human-centered strategies they can use immediately strengthening trust, increasing buy-in, and sustaining momentum through real-world application.
close
Check out the different activities located around the venue for you to explore.Need some quiet time? Check out the sensory rooms located upstairs. See registration desk for more information. Want to play? Check out the game room located in Ash Ready to pose for the camera? Check out the photo booths located in the lobby. *All activities will occur during lunch.
close
Conference ABDE 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Speaker: Shameless Improv
Priority Session
Work Made Fun Gets Done: Improv for Leaders
Who says leadership has to be serious? This interactive improv workshop with Charlotte’s Shameless Comedy group uses playful exercises to build skills like active listening, quick decision‑making, collaboration, and embracing failure. You’ll learn how the “yes, and” mindset strengthens trust and creativity, and why play fuels innovation and psychological safety. Participants leave with practical techniques to boost energy, connection, and risk‑taking on their teams.
close
Tia Jessup
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
Professional dot‑connector and proud Beyhive member.
Tia is a forever learner. With a doctorate in progress, she excels in curriculum design, program development, and eLearning. A dynamic facilitator, Tia brings energy, intention, and support to every space she enters. Outside of work, she’s all about personal growth, fitness, music, and family—plus, she can’t resist a corny joke!
close
Cypress 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Dr. Carrie O. Graham
Breakout Session
Been There, Done That: Learning from Each Other's Wins
Why reinvent the wheel when your colleagues already have solutions? This session breaks down silos through structured “success swapping,” where leaders rotate through small‑group discussions to share what’s working, the challenges they’ve faced, and lessons learned. Participants gain proven strategies, fresh perspectives, and stronger cross‑department connections. You’ll leave with practical best practices from across the organization and a network you can rely on for support and real‑world advice.
close
Conference ABDE 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Dr. Bryle Henderson Hatch
Breakout Session
Building Team Culture: Beyond the Trust Fall
Forget the awkward icebreakers. Real team culture goes deeper than gimmicks. This hands-on session gives leaders practical tools to help different personalities, work styles, and backgrounds not just coexist but thrive. You’ll explore what truly drives engagement, learn to navigate natural tensions, and build shared norms that stick. Walk away with ready‑to‑use strategies for creating psychological safety, turning differences into strengths, and building a culture people actually want to be part of.
close
Cypress 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Russell Dye
Breakout Session
B.O.L.D. LEADERSHIP: Finding Your Voice and Owning Your Seat at the Table
Effective leadership starts with leading yourself. Yet many leaders leave meetings wishing they had spoken up. This session focuses on building the self leadership required to contribute with confidence, clarity, and credibility.
In this interactive workshop, participants learn the B.O.L.D. framework—a research backed approach to self management and strategic communication that enables leaders to speak up thoughtfully, challenge ideas respectfully, and influence outcomes.
close
Dogwood 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Shellisa Multrie
Breakout Session
Craft Your Leadership Story: Authentic Leadership at Every Stage
Leaders grow over time, and so should their approach. Your values shift, your context changes, and new experiences shape how you lead. This session is a chance to intentionally update your leadership story. Through values‑clarification activities and practical frameworks, you’ll explore what authentic leadership means for you right now. Walk away with tools to keep refining your narrative and a clearer vision of the leader you’re becoming — or choosing to become again.
close
Maple 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Nicole Higginbotham
Breakout Session
Talent Magnet: Leading to Retain & Develop Talent
Finding talent is only the first step—keeping it takes skill. Through hands-on activities and real world scenarios, you’ll learn how to create an intentional experience that sets employees up for early wins; build assimilation practices that help new hires connect quickly to the culture, team, and expectations; and implement proven retention habits that keep people engaged, connected and growing.
close
Conference ABDE 2:05pm - 3:00pm
Speaker: AI Committee
Breakout Session
AI in Action: Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Stop wondering what AI can do and start experiencing it firsthand. In this interactive prompt‑a‑thon, you’ll use CoPilot to tackle real workplace challenges and learn how effective prompting can save time, spark creativity, and support better decisions. Bring your tablet or laptop, your curiosity, and one challenge you want to solve, and leave with practical techniques and the confidence to use AI in your leadership work right away.
close
Birch 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Cindy Cooper
Breakout Session
Micro-Behaviors, Major Impact: The Road to Clear Communication & Collaboration
This interactive workshop blends DiSC awareness with essential leadership skills to help leaders navigate conflict with confidence and clarity. Participants will explore the difference between helpful and harmful conflict, understand how their DiSC style influences reactions under pressure, and practice the CLEAR framework for tough conversations. Leaders leave with practical strategies to reduce friction across styles, communicate more effectively, and turn challenging moments into opportunities for stronger collaboration.
close
L.E.A.D. Conference Networking Event
We’re keeping the energy going after the L.E.A.D. Conference!Come hang out, relax, and connect with fellow leaders. We’d love to see you there! 📍 Small Bar – South End 📅 March 19th 🕗 Right after the conference
close
Conference ABDE 9:00am - 10:00am
Speaker: Jessica Bronzert
Priority Session
Game Plan for Growth: Coaching Your Team to Success
Great leaders don’t just give answers; they ask better questions. This session helps you shift from problem-solver to coach by strengthening core skills like active listening, powerful questioning, effective feedback, and accountability without micromanaging. Through real scenarios and a simple coaching framework, you’ll learn when to coach versus direct and how to guide employees toward their own solutions. Participants leave with practical tools and a question bank they can use in their next one-on-one to build stronger, more independent team members.
close
Shameless Improv- L.E.A.D. Full Conference Agenda
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Transcript
March 18th - March 19th
L.E.A.D. Conference Agenda
Hi Shameless Improv, welcome to your L.E.A.D. full Conference agenda. Click the button below to get started.
Start
Click on each day to view your full conference schedule and your registered breakout sessions. Tap the + icon for more details about the L.E.A.D. conference.
Day 1 Sessions
Day 2 Sessions
Resources
Home
DAy 1 Agenda
9:00 AM - 10:00AM
Steady in the Chaos
Matt Blickley
Leading Through Multiple Crises
Conference ABDE
10:05 AM - 11:00 AM
Understanding the Human Experience of Change
Kristy Busija
From Reaction to Readiness
Ash
Talent Magnet
Nicole Higginbotham
Leading to Retain & Develop Talent
Maple
Building Team Culture
Dr. Bryle Henderson Hatch
Beyond the Trust Fall
Conference ABDE
11:05 AM - 12:00 PM
Shellisa Multrie
Craft Your Leadership Story
Authentic Leadership at Every Stage
Dogwood
Russell Dye
B.O.L.D. Leadership
Finding Your Voice & Owning Your Seat at the Table
Cypress
Kendra Miller
High Fives & Hard Lines
Using Supportive Accountabilty to Lead Your Teams to Success
Conference ABDE
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Leadership That Lands
Nicole F. Smith
Communicating with Impact In High Stakes Moments
Conference ABDE
2:05 PM - 3:00 PM
AI in Action
AI Committee
Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Dogwood
AI in Action
AI Committee
Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Conference ABDE
3:05 PM - 4:00 PM
Lead the Change, Live the Practice
Maude Moreno
A 360° Wellness Framework for Effective Leadership
Conference ABDE
DAy 2 Agenda
9:00 AM - 10:00AM
Game Plan for Growth:
Jessica Bronzert
Coaching Your Team to Success
Conference ABDE
10:05 AM - 11:00 AM
Leading Change with Clarity, Confidence, and Action
Kristy Busija
Turning Insight into Momentum
Ash
Leading Generational Diversity
Gina Esquivel
Bridging Perspectives for Stronger Teams
Maple
Micro-Behaviors, Major Impact
Cindy Cooper
The Road to Clear Communication & Collaboration
Birch
11:05 AM - 12:00 PM
Dr. Carrie O. Graham
Been There, Done That
Learning from Each Other's Wins
Cypress
Liz McBride
Navigating AI Transformation
Beyond the Prompt
Ash
Dae-Lee Arrington
Evolve to Lead
Critical Trends Shaping Leadershop Today
Conference ABDE
12:45PM - 1:45 PM
Work Made Fun Gets Done
Shameless Improv
Improv for Leaders
Conference ABDE
Resources
meet the Team
Explore the venue
FAQ
Leadership Development site
Share pictures here
L.E.A.D. Networking Event
Meet the Team
Michelle Horton
Bio
Shelley-Tyler Smith
Bio
Rodolfo Alfaro
Bio
Tia Jessup
Bio
Steven Mitchell
Bio
Michelle Horton
Vice President of Talent Development
Fearless and authentic leader always ready for a mic drop moment.
As VP of Talent Development at GISP and founder of YOUniversity Drive, she empowers individuals through career training and coaching. A recognized leader and mentor, Michelle holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University, but her greatest joy is being a mother to her two children.
close
Conference ABDE 9:00am - 10:00am
Speaker: Matt Blickley
Priority Session
Steady in the Chaos: Leading Through Multiple Crises
The world isn't slowing down - and neither are the challenges coming at you and your team. Economic shifts, global tensions, organizational change and personal pressures. When it all hits at once, how do you stay grounded and lead effectively? Whether you're leading for the first time or leading through your tenth crisis, you'll walk away with actionable tools to stay steady, focused, and effective - no matter what comes next. Because great leaders don't wait for the chaos to calm down. They step forward through it.
close
Conference ABDE 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Kendra Miller
Breakout Session
High Fives & Hard Lines: Using Supportive Accountability to Lead Your Teams to Success
Learn to strike the balance between empathy and accountability that drives real team performance. Based on the book Supportive Accountability, this workshop equips leaders with practical tools to set clear expectations, deliver meaningful feedback, and follow through with consistency. Participants will develop skills to hold supportive yet firm accountability conversations that maintain trust while driving results.
close
Shelley Tyler-Smith
Manager of Learning & Organizational Development
Considers herself to be an amateur comedienne and thinks she funny even if no one else does.
Talent Development professional who manages the Learning and Organizational Development team at GISP. Her specialty is crafting learning experiences that connect theory with real-world practice. She loves fashion, music, community outreach, and traveling.
close
Conference ABDE 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Speaker: Nicole F. Smith
Priority Session
Leadership That Lands: Communicating with Impact In High Stakes Moments
When pressure is high, emotional intelligence becomes essential for effective leadership. This session explores how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and social intelligence shape communication and trust in mission-driven environments. Through real scenarios and a practical framework, leaders learn to read the room, communicate under stress, and repair misalignment to strengthen collaboration.
close
Rodolfo Alfaro
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator
Man of few words because the actions speak for themself.
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator with over 14 years of experience. I am a dedicated and experienced Training Coordinator with a passion for fostering employee development and organizational growth. I enjoy traveling to Charleston to visit with my daughter and playing Tennis.
close
Michelle Horton
Vice President of Talent Development
Fearless and authentic leader always ready for a mic drop moment.
As VP of Talent Development at GISP and founder of YOUniversity Drive, she empowers individuals through career training and coaching. A recognized leader and mentor, Michelle holds degrees from UNC-Chapel Hill and Wake Forest University, but her greatest joy is being a mother to her two children.
close
Shelley Tyler-Smith
Manager of Learning & Organizational Development
Considers herself to be an amateur comedienne and thinks she funny even if no one else does.
Talent Development professional who manages the Learning and Organizational Development team at GISP. Her specialty is crafting learning experiences that connect theory with real-world practice. She loves fashion, music, community outreach, and traveling.
close
Ash 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Kristy Busija
Breakout Session
Understanding the Human Experience of Change: From Reaction to Readiness
Change is constant—but people’s reactions to it are anything but predictable. In this session, leaders focus on the human side of change: what people experience, why resistance shows up, and how leaders unintentionally amplify or reduce it. Participants will explore how individuals and teams process change, including the emotional and behavioral responses that influence engagement, trust, and performance.
close
Ash 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Liz McBride
Breakout Session
Navigating AI Transformation: Beyond the Prompt
As AI becomes part of everyday work, leaders must help their teams adapt with confidence. This workshop focuses on the people side of change, including how to address fears, communicate clearly about new tools, and create a culture where experimentation feels safe. Through real examples and discussion, you’ll learn how to identify supporters, maintain momentum, and guide your team through a smooth, successful AI transition—no matter where your organization is starting.
close
ABOUT THE EVENT
L.E.A.D. Conference
The L.E.A.D. Conference will be a transformative experience for GISP leaders, focusing on the essential pillars of Learning, Engagement, Accountability, and Development. This day-and-a-half conference is designed to equip our leaders with the tools and insights needed to drive meaningful change, foster whole-person leadership and development, and inspire teams to reach their highest potential.
Dogwood 2:05pm - 3:00pm
Speaker: AI Committee
Breakout Session
AI in Action: Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Stop wondering what AI can do and start experiencing it firsthand. In this interactive prompt‑a‑thon, you’ll use CoPilot to tackle real workplace challenges and learn how effective prompting can save time, spark creativity, and support better decisions. Bring your tablet or laptop, your curiosity, and one challenge you want to solve, and leave with practical techniques and the confidence to use AI in your leadership work right away.
close
Steven Mitchell
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
“I live every day, laugh at everything and everyone (including myself), and love without boundaries.”
Steven is a highly organized professional with broad-based experience in retail management, curriculum and instructional design, training, and development in adult learning. Steven enjoys the art of education and believes in life-long learning. Over the last 4 years, Steven has obtained certifications in Leadership and Management, Strategic Organizational Leadership, Diversity & Corporate Ethics Management, Project Management and became a DiSC Practitioner.
close
Conference ABDE 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Dae-Lee Arrington
Breakout Session
Evolve to Lead: Critical Trends Shaping Leadership Today
Leadership is changing fast, and what worked last year may not work tomorrow. This research‑based session explores the trends reshaping leadership in 2026 and beyond, including AI’s growing role in decision‑making, the rising need for human‑centered skills, the move toward adaptive team structures, and the increasing importance of wellbeing. You’ll review data on what’s shifting, why it matters, and how to prepare your team for what’s next. Participants leave with evidence‑based insights and practical strategies to stay ahead of the curve.
close
Maple 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Gina Esquivel
Breakout Session
Leading Generational Diversity: Bridging Perspectives for Stronger Teams
From Gen Z to Boomers, today’s teams span a wide range of communication styles, expectations, and values. This session moves beyond stereotypes to uncover what truly drives each generation and how to lead them effectively. You’ll learn to adapt your communication, use generational strengths, and build a culture where everyone feels valued. Through real scenarios and practical strategies, you’ll learn to bridge common friction points and turn generational differences into a competitive advantage.
close
Tia Jessup
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
Professional dot‑connector and proud Beyhive member.
Tia is a forever learner. With a doctorate in progress, she excels in curriculum design, program development, and eLearning. A dynamic facilitator, Tia brings energy, intention, and support to every space she enters. Outside of work, she’s all about personal growth, fitness, music, and family—plus, she can’t resist a corny joke!
close
Steven Mitchell
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
“I live every day, laugh at everything and everyone (including myself), and love without boundaries.”
Steven is a highly organized professional with broad-based experience in retail management, curriculum and instructional design, training, and development in adult learning. Steven enjoys the art of education and believes in life-long learning. Over the last 4 years, Steven has obtained certifications in Leadership and Management, Strategic Organizational Leadership, Diversity & Corporate Ethics Management, Project Management and became a DiSC Practitioner.
close
Conference ABDE 3:05pm - 4:00pm
Speaker: Maude Moreno
Priority Session
Lead the Change, Live the Practice: A 360° Wellness Framework for Effective Leadership
Leadership requires intentional action, especially during high turnover, rapid change, and constant urgency. This session introduces The Grounded Edge, a six-part wellness framework that strengthens focus, steadiness, communication, and decision-making in real time. Leaders will leave with simple micro‑practices they can use anywhere and a roadmap that can grow into a long‑term leadership wellness initiative.
close
Rodolfo Alfaro
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator
Man of few words because the actions speak for themself.
Learning & Organizational Development Training Coordinator with over 14 years of experience. I am a dedicated and experienced Training Coordinator with a passion for fostering employee development and organizational growth. I enjoy traveling to Charleston to visit with my daughter and playing Tennis.
close
Ash 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Kristy Busija
Breakout Session
Leading Change with Clarity, Confidence, and Action:Turning Insight into Momentum
With a shared understanding of how people experience change, this session shifts to leading it well. Participants will apply the Change Leadership Diagnostic to their own change initiative, assessing readiness, uncovering barriers to adoption, and identifying leadership opportunities that accelerate progress. Leaders will translate diagnostic insights into practical, human-centered strategies they can use immediately strengthening trust, increasing buy-in, and sustaining momentum through real-world application.
close
Check out the different activities located around the venue for you to explore.Need some quiet time? Check out the sensory rooms located upstairs. See registration desk for more information. Want to play? Check out the game room located in Ash Ready to pose for the camera? Check out the photo booths located in the lobby. *All activities will occur during lunch.
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Conference ABDE 12:45pm - 1:45pm
Speaker: Shameless Improv
Priority Session
Work Made Fun Gets Done: Improv for Leaders
Who says leadership has to be serious? This interactive improv workshop with Charlotte’s Shameless Comedy group uses playful exercises to build skills like active listening, quick decision‑making, collaboration, and embracing failure. You’ll learn how the “yes, and” mindset strengthens trust and creativity, and why play fuels innovation and psychological safety. Participants leave with practical techniques to boost energy, connection, and risk‑taking on their teams.
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Tia Jessup
Senior Development & Training Specialist, Learning & Organizational Development
Professional dot‑connector and proud Beyhive member.
Tia is a forever learner. With a doctorate in progress, she excels in curriculum design, program development, and eLearning. A dynamic facilitator, Tia brings energy, intention, and support to every space she enters. Outside of work, she’s all about personal growth, fitness, music, and family—plus, she can’t resist a corny joke!
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Cypress 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Dr. Carrie O. Graham
Breakout Session
Been There, Done That: Learning from Each Other's Wins
Why reinvent the wheel when your colleagues already have solutions? This session breaks down silos through structured “success swapping,” where leaders rotate through small‑group discussions to share what’s working, the challenges they’ve faced, and lessons learned. Participants gain proven strategies, fresh perspectives, and stronger cross‑department connections. You’ll leave with practical best practices from across the organization and a network you can rely on for support and real‑world advice.
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Conference ABDE 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Dr. Bryle Henderson Hatch
Breakout Session
Building Team Culture: Beyond the Trust Fall
Forget the awkward icebreakers. Real team culture goes deeper than gimmicks. This hands-on session gives leaders practical tools to help different personalities, work styles, and backgrounds not just coexist but thrive. You’ll explore what truly drives engagement, learn to navigate natural tensions, and build shared norms that stick. Walk away with ready‑to‑use strategies for creating psychological safety, turning differences into strengths, and building a culture people actually want to be part of.
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Cypress 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Russell Dye
Breakout Session
B.O.L.D. LEADERSHIP: Finding Your Voice and Owning Your Seat at the Table
Effective leadership starts with leading yourself. Yet many leaders leave meetings wishing they had spoken up. This session focuses on building the self leadership required to contribute with confidence, clarity, and credibility. In this interactive workshop, participants learn the B.O.L.D. framework—a research backed approach to self management and strategic communication that enables leaders to speak up thoughtfully, challenge ideas respectfully, and influence outcomes.
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Dogwood 11:05am - 12:00pm
Speaker: Shellisa Multrie
Breakout Session
Craft Your Leadership Story: Authentic Leadership at Every Stage
Leaders grow over time, and so should their approach. Your values shift, your context changes, and new experiences shape how you lead. This session is a chance to intentionally update your leadership story. Through values‑clarification activities and practical frameworks, you’ll explore what authentic leadership means for you right now. Walk away with tools to keep refining your narrative and a clearer vision of the leader you’re becoming — or choosing to become again.
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Maple 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Nicole Higginbotham
Breakout Session
Talent Magnet: Leading to Retain & Develop Talent
Finding talent is only the first step—keeping it takes skill. Through hands-on activities and real world scenarios, you’ll learn how to create an intentional experience that sets employees up for early wins; build assimilation practices that help new hires connect quickly to the culture, team, and expectations; and implement proven retention habits that keep people engaged, connected and growing.
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Conference ABDE 2:05pm - 3:00pm
Speaker: AI Committee
Breakout Session
AI in Action: Your Hands-On Prompt-A-Thon
Stop wondering what AI can do and start experiencing it firsthand. In this interactive prompt‑a‑thon, you’ll use CoPilot to tackle real workplace challenges and learn how effective prompting can save time, spark creativity, and support better decisions. Bring your tablet or laptop, your curiosity, and one challenge you want to solve, and leave with practical techniques and the confidence to use AI in your leadership work right away.
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Birch 10:05am - 11:00am
Speaker: Cindy Cooper
Breakout Session
Micro-Behaviors, Major Impact: The Road to Clear Communication & Collaboration
This interactive workshop blends DiSC awareness with essential leadership skills to help leaders navigate conflict with confidence and clarity. Participants will explore the difference between helpful and harmful conflict, understand how their DiSC style influences reactions under pressure, and practice the CLEAR framework for tough conversations. Leaders leave with practical strategies to reduce friction across styles, communicate more effectively, and turn challenging moments into opportunities for stronger collaboration.
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L.E.A.D. Conference Networking Event
We’re keeping the energy going after the L.E.A.D. Conference!Come hang out, relax, and connect with fellow leaders. We’d love to see you there! 📍 Small Bar – South End 📅 March 19th 🕗 Right after the conference
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Conference ABDE 9:00am - 10:00am
Speaker: Jessica Bronzert
Priority Session
Game Plan for Growth: Coaching Your Team to Success
Great leaders don’t just give answers; they ask better questions. This session helps you shift from problem-solver to coach by strengthening core skills like active listening, powerful questioning, effective feedback, and accountability without micromanaging. Through real scenarios and a simple coaching framework, you’ll learn when to coach versus direct and how to guide employees toward their own solutions. Participants leave with practical tools and a question bank they can use in their next one-on-one to build stronger, more independent team members.
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