2024 Agenda (ARCHIVE)

• Career Coaching* and Resume Reviews*
VIEW CAREER COACHES
VIEW RESUME REVIEWERS
Learning Stage offering mini-classes with actionable takeaways and expert tips for navigating your career
VIEW LEARNING STAGE CLASSES
Wellness Stage offering mini-classes with guidance for achieving physical, emotional, and financial well-being
VIEW WELLNESS STAGE CLASSES
Small Group Networking
VIEW NETWORKING MEETUPS
Bookstore Lounge & Author Signings
VIEW AUTHOR SIGNINGS
Anchor Hubs including Career, Community, Learning, Wellness, and Women-Owned Business Hub
VIEW ANCHOR HUBS
Complimentary Professional Headshots*

 
*First-come, first served!

That’s a Good Question | Navigating New Work Environments

The opportunities to build and manage a career have diversified tremendously. There are more tools and technologies than ever before to explore careers, find new jobs, and connect with people to build skills, get noticed, and get promoted, whether working remotely or in an office. In this interactive session, based on our wildly popular Women Amplified podcast segment “That’s a Good Question,” the audience drives the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions offering insights and lessons learned on how to ensure your career is on track and what factors to consider when negotiating your scope of work and salary.

Moderator: Sara Lomax, President and CEO, WURD Radio, & Co-Founder and President, URL Media

Executive Mentors:

• Rev. Dr. Lorina Marshall-Blake, President, Independence Blue Cross Foundation & Board Director, Pennsylvania Conference for Women
• Nicole F. Cohen, Managing Director, Accenture
• Christy Siegel, SVP & US Therapeutic Area Head, Immunology, Novartis

That’s a Good Question | Reinventing Your Career Portfolio

The future of work encompasses entire categories of jobs that are rapidly becoming obsolete. In this interactive session, based on our wildly popular Women Amplified podcast segment “That’s a Good Question,” the audience drives the conversation. We’ll explore what your career framework looks like, and how you can effectively pivot and reinvent yourself to keep your skills relevant, whether switching job functions, entering a new industry, or returning to the workforce after a break. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions offering insights into strategies to stay connected with your network and continue to build relationships in time-efficient ways, ensuring you’re ready to embrace the pivot and forge ahead with a focus on your brand and a robust skills toolkit.

Moderator: Loraine Ballard Morrill, Director of News & Community Affairs, iHeartMedia Philadelphia

Executive Mentors:

• Kortney Cruz, SVP, Government Markets, Independence Blue Cross
• Rita DiCarlo, Director, Graduate Career & Professional Development, Villanova School of Business
• Maggy Wilkinson, CEO, Athena Global Advisors

That’s a Good Question | Bright Futures in STEM Workplaces

The opportunities to work in technology are exciting and women in these “future is now” workplaces are well-positioned to thrive. Yet, gender bias and lack of representation in leadership roles remain ongoing challenges for women. In this interactive session, based on our wildly popular Women Amplified podcast segment “That’s a Good Question,” the audience drives the conversation. Executive Mentors including Conference board members, senior professionals and community leaders will respond to LIVE attendee questions offering insights and lessons learned, exploring predictions for positive environmental changes and innovative solutions that have been proven successful in creating bright futures for women in this workspace.

Moderator: Alicia Vitarelli, Action News Anchor, 6abc WPVI-TV

Executive Mentors:

• Kenya Boswell, SVP, Community Affairs, Highmark Health
• Jennifer McCafferty, SVP, MRL Quality Assurance and Regulatory CMC, Merck
• Blenda Pinto, Director, Government Affairs, United Airlines

Take Control of Your Stress Response

Science shows that effectively managing our own stress helps us resonate with those around us. This session will teach you methods to develop sustained shifts in behavior, leading to greater productivity, improved health, enhanced mental clarity, increased resilience, and more energy. Join us to learn how the ongoing integration of these strategies can transform your leadership and impact your life.

Speakers:

• Jeff Benton, Founder and CEO, Paragon Performance Evolution
• Dr. Sandra Solano, Stress Management Expert, Paragon Performance Evolution

Business Lift-Off: Launching Your Company and Scaling It Up

This is your gateway to mastering the entrepreneurial game. An attorney with seven thriving companies, Diana Kahn shares the strategies that have fueled her success and can do the same for you. From discovering your golden niche to building a brand that dominates, she’ll unlock the secrets to crafting a business foundation that not only withstands the test of time but scales with ease. You’ll learn how to attract top talent, leverage innovative funding, and use cutting-edge technology to automate your way to the top. This session will empower you to overcome any hurdle, captivate your audience, and lead with the confidence and resilience needed to thrive in today’s fast-paced market. Get ready to launch your business into the stratosphere.

Speaker: Diana Khan, Attorney & Founder, DK Law Group

The Marathon of Motherhood: Navigating Work-Life Balance

Motherhood is a marathon, not a sprint—full of unexpected turns, challenges, and victories. Join Brigid Zeoli as she shares how to build stamina by surrounding yourself with a strong support network, integrate work and life seamlessly, and take the lead in advocating for better parental leave policies. Whether you’re navigating an unexpected path like starting a business or simply looking to balance professional growth with lifestyle needs, this session will provide you with practical strategies to maintain energy, uphold your values, and thrive in both motherhood and career.

Speaker: Brigid Zeoli, Head, OD/Change, FMC

How to Feel Better at Every Stage

Ready to learn one tiny habit that can transform your well-being? In this insightful session, Amanda Henry will show you how to listen to your body throughout the M’s of womanhood—Menstruation, Mental Well-Being, Motherhood, and Menopause. You’ll learn simple strategies for better managing your health and prioritizing self-care, plus how to empower yourself to live in sync with your body’s needs.

Speaker: Amanda Henry, VP, Business Development & Women’s Wellness, TheraBody

Fashion to Fine Wine: Lessons in Leadership, Resilience, and Empowerment

In this session, Angela Schaul will share key leadership lessons from her career journey, spanning major brands to the fine wine industry. Drawing on her experiences in women’s empowerment and navigating challenges in male-dominated fields, Angela will highlight the power of mentorship, resilience, and relationship-building in overcoming adversity. Discover actionable insights for leading with a “people first” mindset and empowering others across industries. Leave inspired to apply these strategies to your own leadership journey.

Speaker: Angela Schaul, Director of Retail Operations and Stores, Fine Wine & Good Spirits

Money on My Mind: 5 Steps for Building Financial Confidence

Building financial confidence is just like building confidence in life—it grows with practice. In this session, Kristin Kanders will guide you through five key steps to take control of your financial future. You’ll learn how to start with a solid foundation by educating yourself, understanding your risk tolerance, and ensuring your money works for you. Discover strategies for investing that fit your comfort level and learn how to negotiate job offers and advocate for your worth. Finally, you’ll learn the importance of goal setting and the power of practice—it’s the repetition that builds true financial confidence. Leave this session ready to take actionable steps toward mastering your money.

Speaker: Kristin Kanders, Head, Marketing & Engagement, Plynk

Navigating DEI Priorities in Uncertain Times

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) are essential for your organization’s success, but advancing these initiatives can sometimes present unique challenges. In this session, you’ll gain actionable insights and practical strategies to navigate and address obstacles to DEI efforts. Through case studies and real-world examples, you’ll explore leadership strategies to prevent, manage, and overcome resistance and build a more inclusive workplace. Walk away with the tools to advocate for inclusive practices and support your organization’s goals, enhancing your ability to drive positive, lasting change.

Speaker: Dr. Corinne Post, Fred J. Springer Endowed Chair, Business Leadership & Professor of Management, Villanova School of Business, Villanova University

 
Tamala Edwards, Action News Anchor, 6abc WPVI-TV

Leslie Stiles, Board President, Pennsylvania Conference for Women

Robin Arzón, VP of Fitness Programming & Head Instructor at Peloton, 2x NYT best-selling Author, GMA Correspondent, & Founder, Swagger Society

Tamala Edwards, Action News Anchor, 6abc WPVI-TV
Barbara Corcoran, Entrepreneur, Television Star and Caregiving Advocate

Celeste Warren, VP, Global Diversity and Inclusion Center of Excellence, Merck
Dawn Staley, University of South Carolina Women’s Basketball Head Coach
in conversation with Ellen McGirt, Editor-in-Chief, Design Observer

Mariann Batista, Group Vice President, Target

Sheryl Lee Ralph, Emmy© Award-Winning Actor, Producer & best-selling Author and Joyce Abbott, Namesake of Abbott Elementary, Award-Winning Retired Educator, Author, and Combat Veteran, U.S. Army
in conversation with Alicia Vitarelli, Action News Anchor, 6abc WPVI-TV

Allyson McMillan-Youngblood, SVP U.S. Oncology, Bristol Myers Squibb & Board Member, Pennsylvania Conference for Women
Diana Nyad, World Champion Athlete and Author

Jim Dever, Greater Philadelphia President, Bank of America

Martha Stewart, Founder, Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, best-selling Author and Emmy Award-winning Host
in conversation with Ellen McGirt, Editor-in-Chief, Design Observer

*** LUNCH INTERMISSION | 11:30am – 11:45am ***

Standard Blissful Boxed Lunch

• Blissful Chicken Bowl
• Mixed Berries
• David’s GF Chocolate Chip Brownie

Alternate Blissful Boxed Lunch (Vegan & Gluten Free)

• Blissful Tofu Bowl
• Mixed Berries
• Made Good Chocolate Chip Granola Bar

Negotiate What You Need For Career Success

Advocating for yourself, whether you’re seeking a promotion, a raise, or new opportunities, is difficult. In this session, Ashleigh Shelby Rosette, PhD, will provide the essential strategies for negotiating career success. She will share insights to help you understand your value, prepare for negotiations, and leverage techniques to achieve your goals. Discover how to overcome common barriers, build confidence, and communicate persuasively to ensure your career growth. With real-world examples and actionable advice, this session will equip you with the tools to successfully navigate professional negotiations.

Speaker: Ashleigh Shelby Rosette, PhD, James L. Vincent Distinguished Professor of Leadership, Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business

Host: Jessica Moore, VP, Investor Relations, Johnson & Johnson

Beyond Comfort Zones: Evolving Leadership for Tomorrow’s Work

Change holds an undeniable presence in our lives, often arriving unannounced, shaking up our routines, and pushing us beyond our comfort zones. This session will explore our dynamic relationship with change across individual, community, and systemic levels. Drawing from real-life stories and observations, Sheela Subramanian, a trailblazer in the Future of Work movement, will illustrate how embracing change can catalyze both individual and organizational growth and foster innovation for yourself and others. This session promises to inspire and empower you to embrace change not merely as a challenge, but as a pathway to new possibilities for how we work, collaborate and lead.

Speaker: Sheela Subramanian, Co-Founder, Future Forum, and best-selling Author

Host: Haniyyah Sharpe-Brown, Sr Manager, Operations & Strategic Programs, Accenture

Becoming Unstuck: How to Get Where You Want to Be

Many of us can feel stuck in our professional journeys as unplanned obstacles get in our way. In this session, behavioral scientist and professor Katy Milkman will provide research-based insights to help you transform challenges into enjoyable activities. Learn how to jumpstart progress, overcome barriers like impulsivity, turn temptation into an asset, and discover why offering advice can actually boost your own success. No matter your career stage, this science-based blueprint will help you unlock effective change, discover your potential and transform your career!

Speaker: Katy Milkman, Wharton Professor, Choiceology Podcast Host, best-selling Author, and one of the Thinkers50

Host: Stephanie David, Advisory Partner, Philadelphia, KPMG

How to be Engaged, Productive and Happier at Work

One of the most crucial factors influencing whether people stay or leave a job is the company’s culture. As individuals become more socially conscious, a focus on wellness, work-life balance, and meaningful connections become vital elements to consider beyond the work itself. We will explore aspects that contribute to employee productivity and success beyond job scope and tangible shifts to achieve a fulfilling work experience. After initial remarks from the thought-leader Robyn L Garrett, a panel of professionals will offer insights to help leaders create supportive and flexible environments for teams to thrive, and strategies to help individuals navigate complicated dynamics that can negatively impact performance and satisfaction. Attendees will leave empowered, inspired and armed with practical tips to be engaged, productive and happier at work.

Thought Leader: Robyn L. Garrett, Author, Leadership Expert, & CEO, Beamably

Panelists:

• Dr. R. Lorraine Bernotsky, President, West Chester University
• Dixie James, Regional President, Jefferson Health
• Nicole Levine, SVP & COO, PECO

Host: Michael Rowinski, VP & Thoracic Commercial Franchise Lead, Bristol Myers Squibb

Beyond Expectations: Break Free and Rediscover Yourself

We congratulate ourselves when we resist the office breakroom donut, celebrate our restraint when we avoid sending an angry email, and feel virtuous when we wake up at dawn to get a jump on the day. We often put others’ needs ahead of our own, believing it makes us exemplary. Like many women, journalist Elise Loehnen spent most of her life trying to be “good” by adhering to the cultural norms imposed on women. This session will explore how women have internalized and reinforced these ancient rules. By sharing her own story, Loehnen will reveal ways to break free, rediscover integrity, prioritize yourself, and achieve balance and wholeness.

Speaker: Elise Loehnen, New York Times best-selling Author & Host, Pulling the Thread

Host: Mariann Batista, Group Vice President, Target

From Paychecks to Piña Coladas: Mastering Money Throughout Your Life

When Vivian Tu left Wall Street, she started sharing her financial savvy on social media to help friends build wealth and save for retirement with easy and digestible “healthy money habits”. In this session, NYT bestseller and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree Vivian Tu shares tips and tools to help you build a successful financial strategy, from your first paycheck to Piña Coladas in retirement. Discover how to maximize your earnings, understand where to keep your money, identify tax strategies for retirement, and overcome investing fears to secure generational wealth. Attend this session to develop a Winning Money Mindset and create smart money habits that will grow your wealth for future generations to come.

Speaker: Vivian Tu, Founder & CEO, Your Rich BFF, and NYT best-selling Author

Host: Diana Khan, Attorney & Founder, DK Law Group

Accessing Capital: Breaking Barriers for Women Entrepreneurs

Accessing capital is a game-changer for women entrepreneurs ready to take their businesses to the next level! In this empowering session, we’ll break down the barriers and give you the inside scoop on how to secure the funding you need. Lenders focus on six “Cs” when assessing your business: Capacity (can you handle debt?), Capital (what have you invested?), Collateral (what assets back your loan?), Conditions (how’s the market looking?), Character (your experience and reputation), and Communication (building a strong lender relationship). Let’s get you the capital to grow and thrive!

Speaker: Jonathan Sklar, VP, Business Community Officer, Bank of America

Living to Thrive, Not Just Survive: Being Honest About Mental Health

Join Dr. Reetika Kumar as she candidly explores the journey of mental health, drawing from her rich experiences as an immigrant, mom, clinician, and executive. In this insightful session, you’ll learn to navigate the complex interplay between mind and body, confront cultural and societal stigmas, and embrace the importance of self-care. Discover practical tools to cope with life’s challenges, recognize when you’re running on empty, and find the courage to ask for help. This empowering session will inspire you to prioritize your mental well-being and truly thrive in all aspects of life.

Speaker: Reetika Kumar, VP, Market Clinical Solutions & Pharmacy Services, Independence Blue Cross

From One Chapter to the Next: Confidently Shifting Careers

Ready to embrace change and take control of your career path? Leena P. Shah, Pharm.D., exemplifies the power of adaptability and proactive change as she shares her journey from pharmacy school to leading global drug development programs in the pharmaceutical industry. Learn how she strategically navigated career shifts across drug development, medical affairs, and business development. This session will empower you to plan intentional career moves, build confidence, and embrace new opportunities. Gain practical insights on setting career goals, leveraging your skills, and building a supportive network as you confidently transition from one chapter to the next.

Speaker: Leena P. Shah, Global Program Leader, Global Drug Development, Bristol Myers Squibb

Striving for Health Equity: Advocating for Yourself and Family

Health equity is a vital issue, especially for women who often face disparities in both health outcomes and access to care. In this session, Josette Gbemudu will shed light on the common health inequities women experience and explore how social determinants of health can impact up to 80% of one’s health status. Learn how to navigate the healthcare system effectively and advocate for yourself and your family to ensure timely and responsive care. Josette will provide practical strategies for women to take charge of their health and empower their loved ones, equipping you with the tools to strive for better health equity.

Speaker: Josette Gbemudu, Executive Director, Health Equity, Merck and Company

Put Your Oxygen Mask on First: Tips to Prioritizing Your Physical and Mental Well Being

Women often put everyone else first, allowing their own well-being to take a back seat. In this session, Dr. Delana Wardlaw will share practical strategies for women to prioritize their health—without guilt. Learn how to boost productivity in all areas of life by focusing on key wellness pillars: improving sleep, diet, and exercise, managing stress, and embracing preventative health measures. This session will provide actionable tips to help you reclaim your time, energy, and peace of mind so you can show up fully for yourself and others. It’s time to put your oxygen mask on first and start living a healthier, more balanced life.

Speaker: Dr. Delana Wardlaw, board-certified Family Medicine Physician

Negotiate What You Need For Career Success

Advocating for yourself, whether you’re seeking a promotion, a raise, or new opportunities, is difficult. In this session, Ashleigh Shelby Rosette, PhD, will provide the essential strategies for negotiating career success. She will share insights to help you understand your value, prepare for negotiations, and leverage techniques to achieve your goals. Discover how to overcome common barriers, build confidence, and communicate persuasively to ensure your career growth. With real-world examples and actionable advice, this session will equip you with the tools to successfully navigate professional negotiations.

Speaker: Ashleigh Shelby Rosette, PhD, James L. Vincent Distinguished Professor of Leadership, Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business

Host: Colleen Lubic, VP, Investor Relations, Axalta Coating Systems

Beyond Comfort Zones: Evolving Leadership for Tomorrow’s Work

Change holds an undeniable presence in our lives, often arriving unannounced, shaking up our routines, and pushing us beyond our comfort zones. This session will explore our dynamic relationship with change across individual, community, and systemic levels. Drawing from real-life stories and observations, Sheela Subramanian, a trailblazer in the Future of Work movement, will illustrate how embracing change can catalyze both individual and organizational growth and foster innovation for yourself and others. This session promises to inspire and empower you to embrace change not merely as a challenge, but as a pathway to new possibilities for how we work, collaborate and lead.

Speaker: Sheela Subramanian, Co-Founder, Future Forum, and best-selling Author

Host: Alison Young, Managing Partner, Red, White and Blue Strategies, Board Director, Pennsylvania Conference for Women

Unlocking the Power of AI: Practical Insights for Everyday Use

AI often feels like an overwhelming and intimidating force, perceived as a threat to jobs and irrelevant to your role in the workplace. However, these are common misconceptions and when utilized correctly, AI can actually help take your career to the next level and free up valuable time at work and in life. Thought-leader Traci Gusher will give initial remarks to help demystify AI and will then be joined by a panel of professionals to share real-world examples and practical tips to explore how AI can be a valuable tool that boosts your productivity and efficiency, enhances brainstorming and elevates innovation. Attendees will leave empowered and with actionable insights to immediately implement in your day-to-day, transforming AI from a daunting concept into a practical ally.

Thought Leader: Traci Gusher, Americas AI & Data Leader, EY

Panelists:

• Jennifer Manry, Principal, Corporate Systems & Technology, Vanguard
• Jennifer Nagle, Vice President of Special Projects, Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB)
• Laura Plunkett, Executive Director, Startup Engagement & Head, LIFT Labs, Comcast NBCUniversal

Becoming Unstuck: How to Get Where You Want to Be

Many of us can feel stuck in our professional journeys as unplanned obstacles get in our way. In this session, behavioral scientist and professor Katy Milkman will provide research-based insights to help you transform challenges into enjoyable activities. Learn how to jumpstart progress, overcome barriers like impulsivity, turn temptation into an asset, and discover why offering advice can actually boost your own success. No matter your career stage, this science-based blueprint will help you unlock effective change, discover your potential and transform your career!

Speaker: Katy Milkman, Wharton Professor, Choiceology Podcast Host, best-selling Author, and one of the Thinkers50

Host: Yolanda Lindsay, Sr VP, Global Human Resources Global Women’s Portfolio & Strategy, Bank of America

Beyond Expectations: Break Free and Rediscover Yourself

We congratulate ourselves when we resist the office breakroom donut, celebrate our restraint when we avoid sending an angry email, and feel virtuous when we wake up at dawn to get a jump on the day. We often put others’ needs ahead of our own, believing it makes us exemplary. Like many women, journalist Elise Loehnen spent most of her life trying to be “good” by adhering to the cultural norms imposed on women. This session will explore how women have internalized and reinforced these ancient rules. By sharing her own story, Loehnen will reveal ways to break free, rediscover integrity, prioritize yourself, and achieve balance and wholeness.

Speaker: Elise Loehnen, New York Times best-selling Author & Host, Pulling the Thread

Host: Suzanne Quigley, Corporate Responsibility Director, Qurate Retail Group

From Paychecks to Piña Coladas: Mastering Money Throughout Your Life

When Vivian Tu left Wall Street, she started sharing her financial savvy on social media to help friends build wealth and save for retirement with easy and digestible “healthy money habits”. In this session, NYT bestseller and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree Vivian Tu shares tips and tools to help you build a successful financial strategy, from your first paycheck to Piña Coladas in retirement. Discover how to maximize your earnings, understand where to keep your money, identify tax strategies for retirement, and overcome investing fears to secure generational wealth. Attend this session to develop a Winning Money Mindset and create smart money habits that will grow your wealth for future generations to come.

Speaker: Vivian Tu, Founder & CEO, Your Rich BFF, and NYT best-selling Author

Host: Kristin Kanders, Head, Marketing & Engagement, Plynk

Soaring with Purpose: Servant Leadership and Ownership Culture

In 2024, Wawa, a family and associate-owned PA-based company, celebrates its 60^th anniversary of opening its first store in Folsom, PA to spreading its wings to over 1,060 locations and growing. Hear from Chief People Officer Maria Kalogredis and Store Operations Director Becky Altemus on how servant leadership drives the retailer’s higher purpose of Fulfilling Lives for its associates, customers and community and how you can soar to new heights at Wawa or create a culture where everyone feels included and valued at your workplace.

Speakers: Becky Altemus, Store Operations Director, Wawa
Maria Kalogredis, Chief People Officer, Wawa

Leading with Purpose: Wellness Strategies for Driven Women with Demanding Roles

In today’s fast-paced digital world, leading with purpose requires building and maintaining meaningful connections, which are essential for both professional success and personal wellness. Join Dr. Patricia Henwood, a senior executive, physician, athlete, mother as she delves into the transformative power of connection for enhancing overall wellness. Drawing from her extensive experience in leadership, humanitarian response, medicine, and juggling a demanding career with family life, Dr. Henwood shares macro wellness strategies to foster connections with your inner circle, colleagues, and in the broader community. Learn how these strategies can lead to a healthier life, underscoring the importance of social wellness in overall health.

Speaker: Dr. Patricia Henwood, MD, FACEP, Chief Clinical Officer, EVP, Jefferson Health

Overcoming Impossible: Learn to Lead & Build a Team

Join celebrity chef and entrepreneur Robert Irvine as he sits down with ABC6’s Christie Ileto for an insightful conversation on leadership and team-building. Robert will share how he’s overcome seemingly impossible challenges in his career and personal ventures, offering practical strategies to lead through adversity and build teams that excel under pressure. Whether you’re managing a business, a project, or a personal goal, this session will leave you with actionable tools to inspire resilience, collaboration, and success.

Speaker: Robert Irvine, Celebrity Chef, Entrepreneur & Philanthropist, Irvine’s Spirits/ Robert Irvine Foundation

Moderator: Christie Ileto, 6abc Action News Anchor/Reporter

 
Details to be announced!