About Our Speakers

2025 keynote speaker

We are pleased to welcome this year’s keynote speaker, Deborah Roberts, an award-winning journalist, co-anchor for ABC’s 20/20, and author.

2025 featured speakers

Maureen Zappala

Award-Winning Speaker, Author, and High Altitude Strategies Founder

Maureen Zappala is a former NASA propulsion engineer, founder of High Altitude Strategies, an award winning speaker, author, & skills coach.

Jen Hatmaker

Author, Podcaster, and Speaker

Bestselling author, podcaster, speaker, and mom of five, Jen Hatmaker is equal parts powerhouse and heart-on-her-sleeve.

Caryn Riggs

City of Bedford Assistant Manager/CFO

TWU alumna Caryn Riggs is Assistant Manager for the City of Bedford, and brings expertise in finance and public service across North Texas.

Jennifer M. Treviño

Executive Director of Leadership Fort Worth

Jennifer Treviño, Executive Director of Leadership Fort Worth, brings experience in leadership, nonprofit growth, and community engagement.

Cristal Retana Lule

Vice President of Community Relations, Children’s Health

As VP of Community Relations at Children’s Health, Cristal leverages her experience & leadership to advance health initiatives across Dallas

Merrill Davis

Vice President of Communications, Texas 2036

Merrill Davis uses data-driven storytelling to shape policy, inspire action, and unite Texans around future-focused issues.

Myra Crownover

Former Texas State Representative

Myra Crownover is a seasoned leader in public health policy & state budgeting with business expertise in banking, real estate, and energy.

Angelia Pelham

Frisco City Council Member

A former HR executive, Angelia brings decades of leadership and executive coaching expertise, and a deep commitment to community engagement.

Barbara Burns

Denton ISD Trustee

A veteran educator, Barbara Burns brings nearly 30 years of classroom experience and a strong record of service in public education.

Sara Madsen Miller

COO & Co-owner, 1820 Productions

Sara blends strategic leadership with creative vision to produce award-winning content for top brands, agencies, and global audiences.

Amanda Adamez

Appointments Manager, Office of the Governor

Within the Governor's Office, Amanda identifies top Texas leaders for state service and actively mentors students and serves her community.

Taylor Brakefield

Founder and CEO, Pros PM

Taylor Brakefield leads Texas property management with a focus on community and advocates for women’s leadership and civic impact in Denton.

Kimberly Hunt

Senior Strategist

Kimberly Hunt excels in crisis communications and political strategy, delivering bold counsel and empowering leaders across diverse sectors.

Jane Nelson

Texas Secretary of State

Jane Nelson was appointed the 115th Texas Secretary of State by Governor Greg Abbott on January 5, 2023.

Carine M. Feyten

Chancellor and President, Texas Woman’s University

Carine M. Feyten serves as chancellor & president of Texas Woman’s University, the nation’s largest public university with a focus on women.

Shannon Mantaro

Executive Director/Chief Officer, Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership

Mantaro leads the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership, advancing women’s leadership statewide through numerous initiatives.

Valerie G. Segovia, EdD

VP of Investor Relations of the Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC)

Dr. Valerie G. Segovia currently serves as the Vice President of Investor Relations of the Texas Economic Development Corporation (TxEDC).

Angela Hunt

Shareholder at Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr

Angela Hunt is a shareholder at Munsch Hardt in Dallas, leading the Zoning & Land Use practice and advising clients across North Texas.

Mercedes Bolen

Former Vice President of External Affairs, AllianceTexas (Hillwood, Perot)

Mercedes Bolen unites leaders across sectors to drive progress in workforce, infrastructure, and community growth.

Gerard Hudspeth

Denton Mayor

Gerard Hudspeth, formerly Mayor Pro Tem and City Council Member, has served as Denton Mayor since 2020.

Ari Kinney

Director, EC-12 Policy, The Commit Partnership

An education advocate and former teacher, Ari drives education reform in Texas focusing on policy, curriculum, and student opportunities.

Cheryl Moore

Mayor, City of Flower Mound

Elected Mayor of Flower Mound in 2024, Cheryl Moore is a longtime resident and former Planning & Zoning and Transportation Commissioner.

LaShon Ross

Plano Deputy City Manager

LaShon, Plano Deputy City Manager, has 35 years in HR & municipal leadership, fostering growth & serving her community through mentorship.

Sheila Taylor, EdD, CPA

Lewisville ISD Trustee Place 7

Lewisville ISD Trustee Dr. Sheila Taylor, Ed.D., CPA, is a U.S. Army veteran, educator, and licensed CPA.

Page last updated 11:34 AM, September 8, 2025