Schedule of Events

Welcome

• Shannon Mantaro, JNIWL Executive Director/Chief Officer
• Gerard Hudspeth, Denton Mayor
• Carine Feyten, PhD, TWU System President & Chancellor
• Jane Nelson, Secretary of State

Opening Session

Confidence is Not Rocket Science! Breaking the Grip of Imposter Syndrome

• Maureen Zappala, Speaker and Author

Concurrent Breakout Session I

Demystifying Successful Strategic Partnerships

• Moderated by Caryn Riggs, Assistant City Manager/CFO, City of Bedford, Texas 
• Mercedes Bolen, former Vice President of External Affairs, AllianceTexas (Hillwood, Perot)  
• Jennifer Treviño, Executive Director, Leadership Fort Worth 
• Dr. Valerie G. Segovia, Vice President of Investor Relations, Texas Economic Development Corporation

Creating strategic partnerships allow governments to guide and support public policy. Experts in the field will share their knowledge on the tools and skills that you can grow to become an integral part of these exciting endeavors.

Pioneer 1/2

How to Achieve Excellence in Advocacy

• Moderated by Cristal Retana Lule, Vice President Government & Community Relations, Children’s Health
• Merrill Davis, Vice President of Communications, Texas 2036
• Angela Hunt, Shareholder, Munsch Hardt Kopf & Harr
• Ari Kinney, Director of Early Childhood-12th Grade Policy, The Commit Partnership

Having a great idea is only the start. The idea must get heard to be enacted, and that's where advocacy steps in. Learn the key steps to advocacy that will work in any situation: - Get informed - get support - refine your message - take action - continue the conversation.

Concurrent Breakout Session II

The New Rules of Executive Presence

• LaShon Ross, Deputy City Manager, City of Plano

Executive presence in public service isn't about playing a part—it's about leading with authenticity, clarity, and purpose. In this dynamic session unpack what executive presence looks like today for women in government and civic leadership. From navigating high-stakes conversations to commanding a room while staying grounded in your values, you'll learn how to lead with impact, inspire trust, and expand your influence in ways that reflect your true self. Ideal for women ready to elevate their leadership in public life.

Pioneer 1/2

All Politics are Local

• Moderated by The Honorable Myra Crownover
• Angelia Pelham, Frisco City Councilwoman
• Cheryl Moore, Mayor, Town of Flower Mound
• Dr. Sheila Taylor, Secretary, Lewisville ISD Board of Trustees
• Barbara Burns, President, Denton ISD Board of Trustees

Dive into the heart of local governance with a powerful panel featuring a city councilwoman, an ISD trustee, and a town mayor. This session explores how local politics shape our daily lives—and the vital role women play in leading that change. Hear each leader’s path to public service, their challenges and wins, and how they make a difference close to home. Whether you're considering a run for local office, aiming to serve on a board or commission, or simply passionate about community advocacy, this session will equip you with the knowledge and inspiration to make a tangible difference in your community.

Lunch and Keynote

Lessons in Leadership with Deborah Roberts

• Facilitated by Sara Madsen Miller, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Producer, 1820 Productions

Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership Distinguished Public Service Award Presentation

• The Honorable Myra Crownover

Structured Facilitated Networking Sessions

• Next Up - Women Ready to Lead for women interested in running for office or serving on boards/commissions. Facilitated by Amanda Adamez, Appointments Manager, Office of the Governor
• Power in Action: Women Moving the Needle for advocates and changemakers. Facilitated by Taylor Brakefield, Chief Executive Officer, Pros PM
• Legacy Builders: Leading Beyond the Role for women established in their roles but ready to do more. Facilitated by Kimberly Hunt, Senior Strategist

Pioneer 1/2

Pioneer 3/4

Appaloosa

Closing Session

Leadership Evolution: How Personal Growth Transforms Public Impact

• Jen Hatmaker, Author, Podcaster, Educator & Activist

Closing