About Our Speakers

2026 keynote speaker

We are pleased to welcome this year’s keynote speaker, Karen Hughes, communication strategist and former counselor to President George W. Bush.

Ali Nichols

Deputy Director of the Texas Film Commission

As Deputy Director of the Texas Film Commission, Ali promotes Texas as a premier destination for film and media production.

Hope Osborn

Executive Director, LBJ Women’s Campaign School

Hope brings extensive experience navigating the Texas Capitol and a career dedicated to empowering women in politics and public service.

LaShon Ross

Plano Deputy City Manager

LaShon is a public servant with 37+ years of leadership, dedicated to developing people, strengthening organizations, & serving communities.

Lee Woodward

City Secretary/PIO, City of La Porte

Lee is also a Texas Registered Municipal Clerk, & an instructor of Texas municipal election law, open government, & parliamentary procedure.

Melissa Chapman-Ait Belaid

Director, Member Engagement, LEE

Collaborative, solutions-oriented leader with 18 years experience building infrastructure to drive learning and engagement across sectors.

Jill Jester

Council Member, At Large Place 6, City of Denton

A Denton native and attorney, Jester brings decades of community leadership and civic service to the Place 6 City Council seat.

Cassey Ogden

Interim City Manager, City of Denton

Appointed Interim City Manager in 2026, Ogden is a Texas Woman’s alumna with over 15 years of dedicated service to the Denton community.

Matilda Weeden

Economic Development Specialist, City of Denton

As Economic Development Specialist, Weeden manages film and music certifications while supporting small businesses and special projects.

Calie Willis

Chief of Strategic Relationships, City of Coppell

A Texas Woman’s alumna, Willis leads initiatives in employee culture, community partnerships, & legislative advocacy in the City of Coppell.

Denise Davis

Partner, Davis Kaufman PLLC

Davis is a consistently top-ranked Texas lobbyist with deep roots in public service, having held senior roles in the Texas House and Senate.

Page last updated 9:09 AM, July 31, 2026