The Midwest Summit on Leadership
May 15, 2025
The Dixon: Historic Theatre
2025 Keynote Speakers
Tamara Ghandour
Moving at the Speed of Innovation: Amplify Human Capital for Business Breakthroughs
At the forefront of human-centered innovation, the impact of Tamara Ghandour’s groundbreaking work can be seen in individuals and teams across the globe. She blends neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and business strategy to make innovation, culture and leadership tangible and accessible. As the creator of the Everyday Innovators personality assessment and author of Innovation is Everybody’s Business, she helps leaders and teams unlock their innovative potential, drive meaningful breakthroughs, and build high-performing teams.
Nick Kittle
Achieving Transformation
Acknowledging, Assessing, and Surviving Change
Transformations can be both personal and professional. In order to truly achieve transformation, however, we must assess, acknowledge, and survive the change. Nick will explore the no-holds-barred truth about personal and professional transformation. Attendees will learn why change is important, the psychology behind it, and how we can energize ourselves and our organizations by harnessing our passion for delivering exceptional results.
Jean Marie DiGiovanna
How to Think Like a Renaissance Leader in the Age of AI
We are navigating one of the most transformative periods in history. In this age of AI and high-speed innovation, companies risk overlooking their most valuable asset: the human element. We are moving through what Jean Marie DiGiovanna aptly terms the “Next” Renaissance where leading with compassion, curiosity and courage has never been more critical. These times require Renaissance Leaders—individuals whose expertise runs both deep and wide, who cultivate curiosity, honour diversity, and innovate by leveraging collective brilliance.
2025 Lunch Workshop
Lori Cortez
Session Title: Who Me? Identifying and Taming Impostor Syndrome
In 2014, Lori was welcomed to Sauk Valley Community College as the Director of TRIO Student Support Services. Lori now serves as the Vice President for Advancement for the Foundation, Marketing, Impact Program, Business Training and Community Education, Recruiting, and the Small Business Development Center teams. Lori has led SVCC teams in securing two TRIO SSS grants ($2.9 million), a Title III grant ($1.9 million), and the Foundation’s first $1 million donation.
Guided Networking Lunch Session Also Available
This will include lunch and a facilitator will assist with a guided networking session. Collaborate within your group or expand your network and meet other professionals!
Express Lunch Options
Each year, organizers work with local eateries to provide express lunch options for attendees. Express lunch options for 2025 will be announced the week before the event.
After-Party Details
We kept the energy levels high in 2024 with an After-Party at Mad Water Saloon. Information on the 2025 after-party to be announced soon.
