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This year, INROADS is uniting high school and college students from across the country for a dynamic leadership development conference. For the first time, the College Links National Career Academy for high school students and the National Conference for college students will merge into one virtual, interactive two-day experience. Participants will engage in immersive workshops, gain wisdom from inspiring keynote speakers, connect with INROADS alumni and industry leaders, and receive invaluable career insights to help them excel as future leaders.
July 17, 2025 11:00 amWelcome INROADS Interns, Staff, Speakers, Sponsors, Alumni, and Friends!
We’re excited to welcome you to two impactful days at the INROADS National Conference and National Career Academy 2025!
This year’s theme, We’re Up Next! No Limits, Just Possibilities!, reflects the spirit of bold leadership, innovation, and purpose that defines our INROADS community.
We’re honored to kick off the event with keynote speaker Eric Rodriguez, a proud INROADS alumnus whose journey embodies the very essence of our theme. With a career that bridges engineering, human resources, and strategic leadership, Eric began his professional path at Intel and has since devoted his work to closing the gap between technology and human potential.
Eric’s story is a powerful example of what it means to be the “Architect of Your Future.” He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Houston and an MBA from Loyola University. Among his many achievements, he was named one of Arizona’s 40 Under 40, a testament to his impact and influence.
Get ready to learn, connect, and be inspired. The possibilities ahead are limitless!
Eric Rodriguez"Meet Eric J. Rodriguez, an INROADS alumnus, keynote speaker, and founder of a human-centered innovation firm. His journey from a curious young boy in Ecuador to global leadership roles at Intel reflects the transformative power of education and technology. A first-generation college graduate with a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Houston and an MBA from Loyola University New Orleans, Eric has led innovation initiatives across multiple continents. Today, he empowers organizations and students to embrace the future of work through his ACT Framework™ (Adapt, Connect, Translate), with a mission rooted in using technology to uplift humanity across engineering, HR, and strategy.
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July 17, 2025 12:30 pmTechnology is not an option. In this workshop, learn to develop essential digital skills, practical tools, and a forward-thinking mindset needed to thrive as a young professional in today's technology-driven workforce. Guided by industry professionals, Naysha and Heather will share strategies around digital transformation and workforce development.
Heather FleischmanMeet Heather Fleischmann, a forward-thinking IT leader and Senior Manager at Constellation, leads the company’s Digital Transformation Office. With 16 years of experience in both public and private sectors, Heather drives innovation and AI strategy—including the launch of internal GenAI initiatives and responsible AI policy. She holds advanced degrees in Business & Technology Management and Computer Information Systems, and enjoys life on the Chesapeake Bay with her husband and Labradoodle.
July 17, 2025 03:00 pmReal Talk. Real Connections.
Pull up a seat and join the conversation! These peer-led roundtables are your chance to vibe, vent, and voice your thoughts on the things that matter—music, fashion, culture, money, and more. Whether you're swapping stories, sharing advice, or just keeping it real, this is your space to connect with fellow interns and alumni in a relaxed, come-as-you-are setting. No filters, just fresh perspectives.
July 17, 2025 01:45 pmThis session explores how youth are already philanthropist while offering tools to activate leadership through collective giving. Students will learn about the Community Investment Network giving model and discover how they can lead with purpose, equity, and community in mind.
Joy WebbMeet Joy B. Webb, a philanthropic advisor and community catalyst with over 15 years of experience at the intersection of corporate giving and grassroots impact. Joy helps emerging leaders and giving circles center equity, amplify community voice, and build collective power—making philanthropy more inclusive and transformative.
July 17, 2025 01:45 pmThis workshop invites students to explore what it truly means to lead with intention and communicate with clarity. Our interactive experience is designed to help leaders build stronger, more self-aware teams by fostering real connections beyond job titles and roles. Students will participate in guided dialogue and engaging activities to discover practical ways to cultivate workspaces that are both human-centered and high-performing. They will learn how genuine connection enhances collaboration and how authenticity supports meaningful impact.
Elexxus WelchMeet Elexxus Welch, a cutting-edge marketing strategist, immersive event producer, and co-founder of SPILL IT Card Game. Originally from Milwaukee and now earning her Master’s in Marketing Technology at Goldsmiths, University of London, Elexxus fuses creativity with operational rigor. Her background includes management consulting and product innovation for Fortune 500 companies, and she brings her passion for authentic connection into every campaign, activation, and experience she creates.
Brandy PittsMeet Brandy Pitts, the creative force behind Built by Brandy and co-founder of SPILL IT. A business and accounting consultant with deep roots in South Georgia and a home base in Atlanta, Brandy blends backend structure with bold brand vision. Her experience in finance and operations at a Top 10 global accounting firm informs her work with entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and growing brands—creating unforgettable experiences that balance business acumen with creative impact.
July 17, 2025 01:45 pmLearn how to bring your authentic self to work in conservative, high-performance industries without compromising professionalism. This session offers practical strategies to align your identity with company culture, build genuine relationships, and use your unique strengths to advance your career. Leave empowered and confident to succeed as your true self.
Nadia BatchelorMeet Nadia Batchelor, Managing Director and Chief Operating Officer of Jefferies Wealth Management, and founder of Inspired by Nadia, LLC. A Harvard MBA and Wharton graduate, Nadia has built a career at the intersection of finance, leadership, and inclusion. She coaches high-achievers to reach their full potential and serves as Chairwoman of the Board of Trustees at CentraState Healthcare System.
July 17, 2025 01:45 pmUnlock your potential in this workshop designed for First-Generation Professionals to challenge limiting beliefs, build confidence, and redefine success. Through reflection, practical tools, and shared experiences, you'll explore your identity, shift your mindset, and connect with fellow First-Gen professionals on similar journeys.
Lindsay BenitezMeet Lindsay Benitez, a credentialed coach, trainer, and founder of Lindsay B Coaching, LLC. With 15 years of HR leadership experience across marketing, advertising, and entertainment, Lindsay specializes in empowering leaders to show up with authenticity, confidence, and purpose. She delivers impactful coaching and inclusive leadership programs that equip professionals to thrive in today’s diverse and evolving workplace.
July 17, 2025 12:30 pmDiscover the 'Key MindShifts' needed to elevate your discussions to dialogues, explore the 'Anatomy of a Conversation' to understand the underlying dynamics of interactions, and gain practical tools to enhance your communication skills.
July 17, 2025 12:30 pmThis session introduces participants to the core components of emotional intelligence (EI) and how to apply them in professional environments. Attendees will enhance their ability to collaborate, lead, and build meaningful relationships through self-awareness, empathy, and social skills.
Jevon WoodenMeet Jevon Wooden, a certified coach, motivational speaker, and founder of BrightMind Consulting Group. As an Army veteran and Bronze Star recipient, Jevon brings a unique blend of resilience, emotional intelligence, and leadership insight to his work. Through personalized coaching and engaging keynotes, he inspires individuals and teams to unlock their potential and lead with confidence.
Erica SmithJuly 17, 2025 12:30 pmJoin this interactive presentation to explore the fundamentals of launching a business, discuss real-world entrepreneurial case studies, understand mindset shifts for success, and hear actionable strategies designed to empower you to begin building your entrepreneurial path with vision and purpose.
Montez JonesMeet Montez Jones, the dynamic owner of Tez Jones Training Solutions, a firm dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations through innovative leadership development and training programs. With a deep passion for cultivating talent, Montez has spent 26 years in the US Air Force and 2 years in the US Army Corps of Engineers honing his expertise in leadership strategies, coaching, and organizational development. His engaging speaking style and commitment to fostering meaningful discussions have made him a sought-after speaker and facilitator at conferences and workshops nationwide.
July 17, 2025 12:30 pmThe INROADS Senior Bootcamp is a high-energy, interactive workshop crafted specifically for recent high school graduates preparing to begin their college journey. This dynamic experience guides students through essential conversations on identity, purpose, professionalism, and change. Through thought-provoking discussions such as “Start With Your Why,” “Modeling Professionalism,” and “Now That You’ve Graduated,” students explore the mindset and habits needed to thrive in a college environment. The day includes engaging breakout rooms, a competitive Kahoot game with prizes, and valuable insights on building your brand and network. Whether students are excited, anxious, or unsure about what’s next, Senior Bootcamp helps them process the transition and feel more confident and equipped for what lies ahead.
July 17, 2025 12:30 pmThis workshop offers practical strategies to turn obstacles into opportunities for growth by building resilience and a strong mindset. Participants will learn how to bounce back from failure, overcome self-doubt, and develop the confidence needed to face life’s toughest moments with strength and purpose. Perfect for anyone ready to level up and take control of their journey.
Lan Phan
Lan PhanJuly 17, 2025 12:30 pmThis engaging session equips high school students with practical financial literacy skills through real-life scenarios, interactive activities, and tools to help them make confident money decisions now and in the future.
MJ PittmanJuly 17, 2025 12:30 pmAI isn’t just for coders and Silicon Valley — it’s for creatives, leaders, and anyone ready to own the future. In this interactive session, you’ll learn how to speak the language of AI: what it is, why it matters, and how to actually use it. From prompt engineering to digital tools that boost your schoolwork, goals, and side hustles — this is how you get fluent in the future.
Lawrence EllisJuly 17, 2025 01:45 pmConflict is an inevitable part of any professional environment. Rather than avoiding it, this workshop empowers young professionals to view conflict as an opportunity for growth and stronger relationships. Moving beyond basic disagreements, the session explores the underlying dynamics of conflict and offers a structured approach to resolution that builds trust and fosters collaboration. Participants will develop essential soft skills critical for career advancement and effective teamwork.
Cassandra WhitlowJuly 17, 2025 01:45 pmThis session challenges students to think beyond just earning a paycheck and start intentionally building their careers. Through reflection and guided discussion, participants will explore how to create, follow, and adjust a personalized career plan using practical strategies and goal-setting techniques.
Stephanie Tran
Michele Posehn
Myky TruongJuly 17, 2025 03:00 pmWere you listening? We will soon find out as your compete against your peers in this fun and engaging Kahoot game covering questions from this year's programming. Leadership, College Prep, Communication and more! You gotta Play to Win!
Gabby AveryJuly 17, 2025 01:45 pmThis interactive session focuses on four high-impact domains: strategic major selection, maximizing campus resources, summer break success strategies, and developing an academic mindset for long-term success. Through hands-on activities and real-world examples, students will learn how intentional planning can prevent costly missteps and create lasting academic and career advantages.
Pam RichardsonMeet Pam Richardson, a Fortune 500 executive turned educational innovator committed to driving measurable impact in student and talent development. As the architect of the acclaimed “College-Ready” program, Pam blends corporate leadership experience with evidence-based strategies to prepare students for academic and professional success. Her award-winning research and analytical frameworks are used across industries and institutions to guide student achievement and influence global education reform. Passionate about bridging the gap between high school preparation and college success, Pam is on a mission to help the next generation thrive.
July 18, 2025 12:30 pmYou crushed your internship! Remember how you excelled in your internship? Now, let's harness those invaluable experiences and propel you towards the thrilling world of your chosen career. An internship is more than just a phase - it's a bridge that connects your academic knowledge with the realities of professional life. But how do you translate that experience into your next role? Let's guide you in transforming your internship experience into a powerful framework that will pave the way for your dream job.
Robert JosephMeet Robert Joseph, a data scientist, educator, and co-founder of Team MindShift, a workforce transformation company helping people thrive in the digital economy. With over 20 years as a university professor, LinkedIn Learning instructor, and tech leader at Stanley Black & Decker, Robert has influenced over 6,000 students. He holds degrees from MIT and Carnegie Mellon and views his greatest accomplishment as being the proud father of two sons.
Craig PrestonMeet Craig Preston, a seasoned technology leader and educator with more than 30 years of experience delivering over 150 digital projects—from e-learning platforms to e-commerce solutions. With academic training from MIT, UC Berkeley, and La Sorbonne, Craig bridges the technical and business worlds, providing professional training programs that help people and organizations adapt, grow, and innovate.
July 18, 2025 12:30 pmThis session introduces the HEART framework (Holistic, Encouraging, Actionable, Relevant, and Trackable) for setting meaningful goals and managing priorities. Participants will learn to align their efforts with their personal values and organizational objectives, ensuring a more intentional approach to success.
Jevon WoodenMeet Jevon Wooden, a certified coach, motivational speaker, and founder of BrightMind Consulting Group. As an Army veteran and Bronze Star recipient, Jevon brings a unique blend of resilience, emotional intelligence, and leadership insight to his work. Through personalized coaching and engaging keynotes, he inspires individuals and teams to unlock their potential and lead with confidence.
July 18, 2025 12:30 pmThis workshop breaks down the behind-the-scenes skills of your favorite creators and shows how you can use those same skills to stand out in your own life, school, and future career. You don’t have to go viral to build something valuable. Behind the filters, trending sounds, and flawless transitions are real habits and traits that lead to success—online and off. Through interactive activities and honest conversation, you’ll leave with tools to navigate your path with confidence and clarity.
Krystal Johnson"Meet Krystal C. Johnson, an entertainment executive and JD/MBA who specializes in aligning business strategy with creative vision. With over 15 years of experience at companies like Discovery, Sony Pictures Television, and Warner Bros. Discovery, Krystal has negotiated high-profile deals for projects including The Night Agent and And Just Like That. A proud HBCU graduate, she brings deep expertise in media law, brand growth, and intellectual property to every conversation—championing underrepresented voices and unlocking opportunities across the entertainment landscape.
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July 18, 2025 12:30 pmThis session highlights the growing demand for professionals who can thrive in 21st-century workplaces by demonstrating both strong leadership and effective followership. Participants will explore essential followership behaviors, their role in supporting organizational goals, and strategies for working with a range of leadership styles—including toxic ones.
Israel OyedareMeet Israel Oyedare, a leadership strategist, learning designer, and youth development expert driving impact across Africa. As the longtime leader of the TYIL team, Israel has developed leadership programs in Nigeria, Tanzania, and The Gambia. He successfully defended his dissertation and earned a Ph.D. in Leadership Studies, with award-winning research on youth, social change, and followership recognized by the International Leadership Association and Virginia Tech.
July 18, 2025 01:45 pmThis interactive workshop introduces the B.O.L.D. framework to help students move from waiting for opportunities to creating their own. Drawing from lived experience as an immigrant, engineer, and leader, the session blends storytelling, reflection, and practical tools to explore how mindset and identity shape success. Students will learn how to take action with confidence, embrace their unique voice, and lead with purpose—even when the path forward feels uncertain.
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Kokui AdesokanMeet Kokui Adesokan, a keynote speaker, tech leader, and entrepreneur empowering first-gen professionals, women, and underrepresented communities to thrive in technical spaces. From not speaking English as an immigrant to leading multimillion-dollar programs in FinTech, Aerospace, and Renewable Energy, Kokui brings real-world insight to every talk. Through her platform, Lead With Kokui, she speaks on leadership, career reinvention, and imposter syndrome—while also running a mission-driven business supporting African artisans.
July 18, 2025 01:45 pmFinancial Jeopardy turns essential financial literacy topics into an interactive, team-based game that makes learning about money both fun and memorable. Participants will compete to test their knowledge in areas like budgeting, saving, debt management, investing, and money mindset. Through real-world scenarios and friendly competition, this session helps students build practical skills and the confidence to take control of their financial future.
Autumn GreenMeet Autumn Green, founder of My Stewardship Journey and a passionate financial coach helping young adults break free from the paycheck-to-paycheck cycle. Drawing on her lived experience and career in education leadership, Autumn helps clients shift their mindset, build healthy money habits, and pursue financial independence through budgeting, debt reduction, and wealth-building strategies.
July 18, 2025 01:45 pmThis empowering workshop provides practical strategies to overcome self-doubt, build confidence, and show up strong in interviews and at work. Participants will learn how to push past limiting beliefs, communicate with assurance, and understand what hiring managers truly seek. Ideal for students preparing for internships, first jobs, or career transitions.
Lan PhanMeet Lan Phan, a Stanford and Harvard-trained expert in global peak performance and personal growth. As the author of Do This Daily: Secrets for Finding Success, Happiness, and Purpose in Work and Life, Lan shares her proven strategies for achieving excellence in work and life. Her insights have been featured in Entrepreneur, Harvard Business Review, Forbes, and Money Magazine. Lan is on a mission to help people unlock their full potential and lead fulfilling, purpose-driven lives.
July 18, 2025 01:45 pmIn this engaging workshop, branding expert Glenn Rudin will empower students to take control of how they’re perceived—before others define it for them. Through practical tools and real-world insights, students will explore the power of personal branding, learn how to avoid common mistakes, and develop a simple framework to stand out in interviews, online, and beyond. Whether you're pursuing a career, building a business, or exploring your path, this session will challenge you to step into your brand with purpose.
Glenn RudinMeet Glenn Rudin, “The Message Master,” a seasoned Sales and Marketing Coach with over 35 years of experience helping individuals and businesses sharpen their messaging and branding. A sought-after speaker, Glenn delivers high-energy keynotes on personal branding, pitching, and communication success at universities, conferences, and corporate events across the country.
July 18, 2025 11:00 amAlumni Panel: Life After INROADS – No Limits, Just Possibilities
What comes next after college? After INROADS? In this powerful and inspiring session, six accomplished INROADS alumni return to share their journeys of growth, resilience, and reinvention. From launching careers to leading change, they’ll reflect on how their INROADS experiences shaped their path—and how they continue to rise, give back, and break barriers. This conversation is rooted in the spirit of We’re Up Next! No Limits, Just Possibilities!—reminding us all that the end of one chapter is just the beginning of boundless opportunities.
Xavier ScottXavier Scott is an Information Systems Major at Kennesaw State University and an IT Intern at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Chicago.
He enjoys: Weightlifting, watching/playing sports
His Mission: Is to serve others by leveraging my leadership skills and passion for business and technology. He aspires to make a positive impact on people's lives by providing innovative solutions and creating opportunities for growth. Through his endeavors, he aims to inspire others to lead, to give back, and to build a better future for our communities and beyond.
Ammar IftikharMeet Ammar Iftikhar, a finance professional with a strong background in equity analysis and corporate finance. He has interned at JPMorgan Chase & Co. and UPS Capital, where he gained hands-on experience in FP&A and banking. Currently, Ammar serves as a Manager on the Culture and People Strategy team at Peachtree Restaurant Partners, a restaurant-focused private equity group.
Lenford RoweMeet Lenford “Lenny” Rowe, a strategic marketer and brand builder with a track record of success across sales, supply chain, and marketing at Fortune 500 companies like PepsiCo and Nestlé. He’s passionate about leveraging storytelling, data, and cultural insight to grow meaningful brands, and brings a collaborative, community-driven mindset to every team he joins.
Manveen Kohli
Darien WrightMeet Darien Wright, Chief Financial and Operating Officer at the National Geographic Society, where he leads finance, technology, and operations while serving as a key liaison to The Walt Disney Company. With over 25 years of experience across Fortune 500 companies, private equity, and Big 4 accounting, Darien is also a member of the NAMI National Board’s Finance & Audit Committee and a proud INROADS alum from the Class of 1992.
Krystal Johnson"Meet Krystal C. Johnson, an entertainment executive and JD/MBA who specializes in aligning business strategy with creative vision. With over 15 years of experience at companies like Discovery, Sony Pictures Television, and Warner Bros. Discovery, Krystal has negotiated high-profile deals for projects including The Night Agent and And Just Like That. A proud HBCU graduate, she brings deep expertise in media law, brand growth, and intellectual property to every conversation—championing underrepresented voices and unlocking opportunities across the entertainment landscape.
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July 18, 2025 03:00 pmReflect, Recharge & Reconnect!
As we close out an incredible two days of learning and leadership, let’s take a moment to reflect on the insights, inspiration, and connections we've made. But don’t head out just yet— after this wrap-up session, the energy continues! College Links Scholars will head over to Chill and Chat. College Interns will head over to Game Night followed by Speed Networking, a fun way to interact with your peers in conversation over "This or That!"
Yvonne McKinnonYvonne McKinnon is a servant leader who thrives on training and developing people as well as enhancing the user experience through process improvements and collaboration. With 20+ years of training experience, Yvonne prides herself on active listening to understand the perspectives of those she communicates with which allows her to provide exceptional customer service. Yvonne holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a graduate degree in Leadership from Duquesne University. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, she started her career working for the criminal courts and transitioned into higher education after relocating. For the past year, she has worked as the National Director of Learning and Development for INROADS.
July 18, 2025 03:30 pmGame Night: It's Giving... Vibes, Laughs, and Friendly Smoke
Yvonne McKinnonYvonne McKinnon is a servant leader who thrives on training and developing people as well as enhancing the user experience through process improvements and collaboration. With 20+ years of training experience, Yvonne prides herself on active listening to understand the perspectives of those she communicates with which allows her to provide exceptional customer service. Yvonne holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a graduate degree in Leadership from Duquesne University. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, she started her career working for the criminal courts and transitioned into higher education after relocating. For the past year, she has worked as the National Director of Learning and Development for INROADS.
July 18, 2025 04:00 pmNetworking: With a Twist
Not your average icebreaker. In this fast-paced, high-energy session, you’ll be strategically mismatched with your peers based on opposing takes—from flats vs. drums to East Coast vs. West Coast. Your mission? Make your case, flip perspectives, and maybe even spark some unexpected friendships along the way. This is not speed dating—it's connection through conversation, with a side of playful debate. Get ready to think fast, speak up, and link with folks who don’t always see things your way... yet.
Yvonne McKinnonYvonne McKinnon is a servant leader who thrives on training and developing people as well as enhancing the user experience through process improvements and collaboration. With 20+ years of training experience, Yvonne prides herself on active listening to understand the perspectives of those she communicates with which allows her to provide exceptional customer service. Yvonne holds an undergraduate degree from the University of Pittsburgh and a graduate degree in Leadership from Duquesne University. Born and raised in Pittsburgh, she started her career working for the criminal courts and transitioned into higher education after relocating. For the past year, she has worked as the National Director of Learning and Development for INROADS.
July 18, 2025 11:00 amStraight Talk from College Students: Your Next Chapter Starts Here - Whether you just graduated high school or you're a rising high school sophomore, this student-led panel keeps it real about the transition to college. Hear directly from your peers about what they wish they knew, what helped them succeed, and what you can do now — and in the months ahead — to thrive in your college journey.
Sydney Hill
Kristen Vaughn
Andrew Quinonez
Uzoma UnuigboJuly 18, 2025 12:30 pmThink Shark Tank, student edition! Watch select participants pitch their original business ideas to a panel of judges for feedback, bragging rights, and a shot at prizes. Innovation, creativity, and bold ideas take center stage!
For Pre-Assigned Students Only
Rashidah Jones (ULGA)Meet Rashidah Jones, a barrier-breaking leader, BIPOC coach, and Senior Program Manager at the Urban League of Greater Atlanta, where she leads the Young CEOs program to empower youth in entrepreneurship. With a background in social work, media, marketing, and nonprofit leadership, she blends empathy, cultural competence, and strategy to create inclusive, data-informed programs that support marginalized communities. Rashidah’s work centers on breaking systemic barriers, promoting equity, and guiding individuals—especially those from BIPOC backgrounds—toward lasting success.
Phyllis CarterMeet Phyllis Carter, a seasoned Chief Financial Officer and Board Director with over 25 years of experience leading transformational growth across corporate, nonprofit, and higher education sectors. An INROADS alum and financial expert, Phyllis has partnered with major organizations like AT&T, Oracle PeopleSoft, and Sony Music, as well as universities and research institutions. She is passionate about equity, mentorship, and social impact, actively advising female founders and supporting entrepreneurship through programs like How Women Lead and the BIG IdeaBounce® competition.
Ymorah Blakeney
Paige MalcolmMeet Paige Malcolm, a Software Engineer at MetLife, Inc., where she builds scalable internal tools that support development teams across the organization. She is a Fall 2024 graduate of Georgia State University with a degree in Computer Science. While in college, Paige co-founded Skincentric, a personalized skin analysis and routine tracking app that earned her a spot in the university’s prestigious Mainstreet Entrepreneurship Seed Fund Cohort 4. Passionate about giving back, she now mentors young women pursuing careers in tech and entrepreneurship.
Cathy Saint LouisJuly 18, 2025 12:30 pmAre you the BOSS of it? A dynamic workshop designed to empower high school students to take confident control of their educational journey. Through goal-setting, strategic planning, and self-reflection, participants will learn how to blaze their own trail and take ownership of their learning process while building lasting success.
Rita GreenMeet Dr. Rita Green, a proud INROADS alumna and the founder of GRADES LLC (GReen ADult Education Services), a consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations educate, inspire, and empower communities in financial capability, homeownership, entrepreneurship, and community development. With over 20 years of experience as a college educator, Dr. Green is also a certified personal and family finance educator and an accredited financial counselor. Her leadership extends nationally, having served on the IRS Taxpayer Advocacy Panel and the Community Development Advisory Council of the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis.
July 18, 2025 12:30 pmYour personal brand is your superpower. This interactive workshop guides participants through authentic storytelling and strategic personal branding to help them stand out in competitive environments. Attendees will craft a clear personal brand statement, identify their unique value, and learn how to confidently position themselves in professional and networking settings.
Sonia ObliteyMeet Sonia Oblitey, a visionary brand strategist known as the “Brand Day Dreamer” for her ability to reimagine futures and unlock the potential of brands and teams alike. With over 20 years of experience in global brand marketing, Sonia blends innovation, strategic foresight, and her signature “Lift as You Climb” leadership philosophy to deliver bold, measurable impact. Her reputation as a creative powerhouse and compassionate leader makes her a sought-after expert in building brands that resonate and endure.
July 18, 2025 12:30 pmThis session equips students with the mindset and practical tools to approach difficult decisions with confidence, clarity, and critical thinking. Through collaborative and reflective activities, students will develop decision-making skills that align with their values and goals.
Elexxus WelchMeet Elexxus Welch, a cutting-edge marketing strategist, immersive event producer, and co-founder of SPILL IT Card Game. Originally from Milwaukee and now earning her Master’s in Marketing Technology at Goldsmiths, University of London, Elexxus fuses creativity with operational rigor. Her background includes management consulting and product innovation for Fortune 500 companies, and she brings her passion for authentic connection into every campaign, activation, and experience she creates.
Brandy PittsMeet Brandy Pitts, the creative force behind Built by Brandy and co-founder of SPILL IT. A business and accounting consultant with deep roots in South Georgia and a home base in Atlanta, Brandy blends backend structure with bold brand vision. Her experience in finance and operations at a Top 10 global accounting firm informs her work with entrepreneurs, nonprofits, and growing brands—creating unforgettable experiences that balance business acumen with creative impact.
July 18, 2025 01:45 pmLet this session inspire you to live like a champion by applying the 5 Pillars of the Championship Life Methodology: Commitment, Honesty, Accountability, Mindset, and Persistence. Through reflection and practical strategies, participants will explore how these core values can drive personal growth, resilience, and long-term success.
Sly WilliamsMeet Sylvester “Sly” Williams, Super Bowl champion, motivational speaker, and entrepreneur who brings high energy and lived experience to every stage. From overcoming adversity to reaching the NFL’s biggest stage, Sly now empowers others to embrace their inner champion. Through his 5 Pillars of Championship Life, he helps individuals and organizations transform mindsets, tackle challenges, and achieve lasting success.
July 18, 2025 01:45 pmJuly 18, 2025 03:30 pmThis conference gave us a lot to think about — now let’s unpack it, student-style. Join your peers and a few program managers for a relaxed, scholar-focused space to reflect, share your favorite moments, and talk about what really stuck with you. No slides, no pressure — just real talk and good vibes.
B.J. Joyce
Jarius Wallace
Krystal Burrows