As the Soirée Women’s Leadership Symposium prepares for its seventh annual event on May 8, organizers have released a full list of speakers, presenters and panelists.
Last month, it was announced Candace Doby and Michelle Anne Johnson would headline SWLS 2025 with their combined expertise in leadership consulting, development strategy, executive coaching and personal C-suite experience.
The symposium, held at the Statehouse Convention Center in downtown Little Rock, will also bring its signature take on networking and professional development with breakout sessions led by industry pros in three specified tracks: executive, entrepreneur and leading ladies.
A focus for the 2025 event is the opportunity for more complex conversations and subject matter. Each track will include two sessions, as opposed to previous years’ three sessions, which will allow speakers to cover more in-depth topics. Attendees can also opt into post-symposium workshops that delve into fostering team engagement and productive conflict management.
“The messaging from our keynotes, our women’s wellness panel and the roster of local speakers and panelists this year are so strong, and topping off the day with our new workshops is just icing on the cake for attendees who want to take a deep dive into relevant workplace challenges,” says Mandy Richardson, symposium founder and publisher of Little Rock Soirée magazine.
“I really think this year’s content might be the strongest we’ve put together. We know the importance of investing in ourselves and our current talent, and this year’s SWLS event is going to offer more than ever before.”
Here’s who will take the mic this spring:
- Dr. Holly Agud, Baptist Health
- Jean Block, Little Rock Water Reclamation Authority
- Tammie Davis, Simmons Bank
- Deb Degner, The Leadership Bridge
- Dr. LaTeasha Gaither-Davis, Therapeutic Focus
- JoBeth McElhanon, Lilias & Olive
- Brandy Thomason McNair, Bella Vita Jewelry
- Julie Nix, Baptist Health
- Barbara Sugg, Southwest Power Pool
- Millie Ward, Stone Ward
- Dr. Diane Wilder, CARTI
- Dr. Heather R. Williams, UAMS
- Rebecca Yan, Three Fold Noodles + Dumpling Co.
Registration for the half-day symposium, workshops and pre-event VIP night are open now. Click here to reserve your spot.
Learn more about the Soirée Women’s Leadership Symposium at the event website, and follow along on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
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