Weatherhead Leadership Conference a Resounding Success
More than 350 alumni, students, business professionals and supporters attended the first Weatherhead Leadership Conference at the Marriott Key Tower on Thursday, March 5.
The conference, a forum inspired by women leading with intentionality, humanity and heart, featured two mesmerizing keynote addresses, an engaging General Session focused on leadership and the economy, an expo area with a dozen groups represented, several thought-provoking breakout sessions, and a concluding networking reception."Across the Leadership Conference, we heard a simple idea repeated in many ways,” said Weatherhead Dean Andrew Medvedev (CWR ’97). “Leadership begins with truly seeing people, and then having the courage to act with both clarity and humanity."
Breakout sessions and panels featured accomplished leaders in their professions from across the region. These sessions were contained within three tracks: Leadership, Culture and AI/Technology.
Alumna Shelly McNamara (MGT ’91) kicked off the morning by sharing leadership lessons that blended storytelling and poetry. Members of the audience were provided copies of her book, No Blanks, No Pauses…A Path to Loving Self and Others. Shelly’s remarks were met with a standing ovation from the attendees.
“Lighting Up is the New Leaning In” was the theme of the afternoon keynote speaker, Shannon Watts. Known as the “summoner of women’s audacity,” Watts has a history of organizing and mobilizing women to create political, electoral and cultural change.
“The day was truly special and inspirational,” commented Executive Director of Alumni Relations Brian Breittholz. He added,” As we navigate rapid social, technological and cultural transformation, leadership matters more than ever before, and this conference planted sustainable seeds that will blossom into action.”