***Agenda is tentative and subject to change.***

Summit Overview and Introductions     
Emcee: Callie Miracle, Director of Implementation, Kentucky Chamber Foundation

Welcome 
Ben Reno-Weber, Louisville Metro Council and CEO and Co-Founder, Essential Innovation

Sponsor Introduction and Comments 
Jordan Harris, Client Relationship Executive, Deloitte

2037: The Surprise Society – Navigating Culture, Change and Technology in a Fragile World
Nat Irvin, II, DMA, Assistant Dean of Thought Leadership & Civic Engagement, University of Louisville College of Business

2037: The Surprise Society explores what it means to lead in a world shaped by instability, acceleration, and uncertainty. Audiences will be invited to think about the future not as something distant and abstract, but as something already taking shape through small signals, cultural shifts, technological change, and fragile systems under stress. Drawing on history, contemporary trends, and the discipline of foresight, he examines how surprise emerges, how risk becomes normalized, and why judgment matters most when the map is incomplete. Rather than offering simple predictions, this talk challenges listeners to develop the habits of attention, curiosity, and moral courage required to navigate a world that refuses to behave—and to lead wisely within it.

Beyond Hustle, Navigating Burnout, Growth and the Next Stage of Success
Erin Van De Voorde, Co-Founder & CEO, West of Perfection
Mary Katherine Wathen, Co-Founder & President, West of Perfection and Author, Made for More 

Many young professionals enter the workforce believing that hard work, long hours, and relentless effort are the keys to success. While those habits often drive early achievement, there comes a point when working harder is no longer enough. The very strategies that helped professionals advance can eventually become the source of overwhelm, burnout, stalled growth, and disengagement. This interactive session helps participants recognize the hidden barriers that prevent high achievers from reaching their next level of personal and professional growth. Through guided reflection, practical exercises, and group discussion, attendees will explore the mindset shifts and personal development skills required to navigate increasing responsibility, uncertainty, and pressure in today's workplace.

Participants will leave with a deeper understanding of the patterns that contribute to stress, burnout, and stagnation, along with practical tools they can immediately apply to improve resilience, strengthen self-awareness, and sustain long-term success. Rather than simply offering motivation, this session equips young professionals with actionable strategies to help them thrive both personally and professionally as they build their careers.

The Power of Purpose: How Volunteerism Strengthens Employee Engagement and Communities
Adria Johnson, CEO, Metro United Way 
Katina Whitlock, Senior Director for People, Culture and Community Engagement, GE Appliances/Haier 
TJ Williams, Design Engineer, GE Appliances

Employees who are encouraged to give back are more engaged, connected, and invested in their organizations. This panel will explore how companies are leveraging volunteerism and community service to build stronger workplace cultures, develop future leaders, and create meaningful community impact. Hear from business and nonprofit leaders as they share successful strategies, lessons learned, and practical ideas for creating volunteer programs that benefit employees, organizations, and the communities they serve.

Chaos, Curveballs, and Comebacks: The Leadership Playbook for Unpredictable Times
Colene Elridge (Coach Colene), CEO, Be More Consulting 

Leadership today feels like playing Whack-A-Mole... just when you think you’ve got it figured out, something new pops up. In this fun, practical session, we’ll explore how to adapt, make confident decisions with imperfect information, and lead with clarity even when everything feels uncertain.

Presentation of the Kentucky Young Professional of the Year Award 
Young Professional of the Year Award recipient TBA

Announcement of Next Generation Leadership Council

Luncheon Keynote TBD

From Kitchen Idea to National Brand: The Dan-O’s Story
Dan Oliver, Founder, Dan-O's Seasoning

What does it take to turn a simple idea into a nationally recognized brand? In this inspiring session, Dan Oliver, founder of Dan-O's Seasoning, shares the entrepreneurial journey behind one of the fastest-growing names in the seasoning industry. Dan will reflect on the courage it takes to pursue a dream, the lessons learned while building a business from the ground up, and the power of authenticity in leadership. He’ll also discuss how he leveraged digital platforms—particularly YouTube—to build a loyal community, share cooking tips and recipes, and introduce millions to the flavor and personality behind Dan-O’s.

The Lucky Ones: From Foster Care to the Crown – A Story of Resilience and Advocacy
Ariana Rodriguez, Miss Kentucky 2025

Ariana's Service Initiative, The Lucky Ones, brings hope, dignity, and empowerment to youth in foster care. The Lucky Ones is a deeply personal mission rooted in her own experience as a foster child and the belief that every young person—regardless of their circumstance—deserves dignity, joy, and opportunity. Inspired by her journey and driven by a commitment to advocacy, Ariana has created a multi-faceted program that supports children in foster care and empowers youth through practical education and personal connection.