On March 20, 2025, the Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership will host its annual Leadership Conference. An inspiring array of speakers will animate this year’s theme, “Leading Change.” Members of the Simmons community are entitled to complimentary virtual attendance.
The 2025 Simmons Leadership Conference (SLC2025), hosted by the Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership, has announced its powerhouse lineup of speakers that will inspire, challenge, and empower attendees. This year, the hybrid conference will take place on March 20 at Boston’s Hynes Convention Center and virtually. The program runs from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm EST.
With the theme “Leading Change,” the 2025 gathering aims to curate a transformative experience where dynamic leaders will share personal stories, cutting-edge insights, and actionable strategies for driving positive shifts in the workplace and beyond. Designed for women professionals at all career levels, SLC2025’s expansive topical range will address tackling fear and uncertainty in leadership, embracing innovation, and championing diversity.
SLC2025 speakers represent a diverse range of industries, backgrounds, and experiences — all united by a passion for creating lasting impact. Insights from these thoughtful individuals will help participants enhance their leadership skills, navigate personal growth, cultivate confidence, and embrace change within their organizations and communities in today’s ever-evolving world.
Keynote Speaker Luminaries
Iconic actress, model, author, and entrepreneur Brooke Shields is the featured guest for this year’s Fireside Chat, “Leading Change at Every Age.” During this discussion, Shields will reflect on her incredible journey from child star to powerful advocate for women’s empowerment. Now 59, she challenges age-related biases, redefines midlife, and calls on others to take control of their narratives at any stage of life.
The first Black female CEO in NBA history, Cynthia “Cynt” Marshall, will deliver the keynote, “You’ve Been Chosen: Thriving Through the Unexpected.” Here she will share her personal journey of resilience, overcoming cancer, and transforming the culture of the Dallas Mavericks. Marshall’s story of thriving through adversity will empower attendees to embrace challenges and turn them into opportunities for growth.
The Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership CEO Susan MacKenty Brady will present a keynote address entitled “Lead from Your Best: Unlock Trust, Talent, and Transformational Results.” She will introduce the “Best Self Approach” to leadership — a proven system that enhances influence, inclusivity, and impact. Through this approach, leading with intentional respect generates positive results and cultivates a culture of accountability and trust.
Additional SLC2025 Speakers
- Jessica O. Matthews, CEO of Uncharted, Innovator, and Social Entrepreneur, will deliver a signature session entitled “The AI Revolution at Work: Leading Change and Overcoming Fears in a Rapidly Evolving World.”
- Dr. Nadya Zhexembayeva, Founder of The Reinvention Academy, will share insights in her signature session, “How to Lead in Turbulence Without Losing Your Mind.”
- Sophia Kianni, Founder of Climate Cardinals and UN Advisor, will deliver a signature session entitled, “Women in Leadership: Breaking Barriers & Building Legacies.”
Free Virtual Attendance for Simmons Affiliates
The Institute offers the Simmons community — current staff, faculty, and students — complimentary virtual attendance to SLC2025. To benefit from this learning opportunity, register online. When redeeming your ticket, select “online” for ticket type. Use your Simmons email address at checkout to redeem your free ticket.
Review the SLC2025 website for more information about this year’s conference.