2026 SPEAKERS

Wai‑Fung Thompson leadership is shaped by a life that began far from conventional.

Growing up in Hong Kong and later the UK, she navigated unlikely beginnings – from significant early obstacles at home to an undiagnosed learning disability – while striving within an environment where achievement was expected and comparison was constant. With the support of those who invested in her, and through relentless determination, she earned a place at Cambridge University and transformed those early hardships into the foundation of how she leads and designs work for others.

Today, Wai‑Fung is Senior Vice President, People & Culture, Americas at ITG Brands, the U.S. subsidiary of Imperial Brands, a global CPG organization. In this role, she partners closely with the U.S. Leadership Team to support 5,000 employees across the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic. She leads a forward‑looking people strategy focused on organizational clarity, leadership strength, and enabling sustained commercial growth.

Wai‑Fung began her career in sales, holding commercial leadership roles across major global organizations. Her pivot to People & Culture emerged from a defining all‑hands moment. After sharing her story, colleagues sought her guidance not on sales but on building stronger teams, listening deeply, and creating environments where people could contribute their best. That insight reframed her trajectory: the real power is the blend of driving commercial delivery by empowering people.

A late‑diagnosed dyslexic, she champions neurodiversity and inclusive work design. She is an accredited coach, with executive studies at Cambridge University, Harvard, Hult Business School, and the Human Capital Institute.

Outside of work, she enjoys family time, gymnastics coaching, skiing, and is currently training for her first 10K run!

Molly Alexander is an Operations Manager at the CES experience lab at Walmart. She is also Vice Chair of the Disability Action Network within Walmart and advocates for customers and associates with disabilities. Molly’s first role with the company in 2014 was teaching dance. She still hosts camps for students with special needs and helped teach the very first wheelchair dance class in the state of Arkansas. Molly has invented several sensory tools, and often speaks about this work. Molly has written a book, has been a surrogate, and has travelled to 8 countries and 49 states. She has a wonderful husband and five beautiful children. She enjoys anything outdoors, such as camping, kayaking, and spelunking.

Kacie Alverson is the Director of B2B Assortment at Walmart, where she leads strategy and acceleration efforts to drive growth and impact. A proud Northwest Arkansas native, Kacie was born and raised in the area and now lives in Rogers with her daughter, Bella, and their three dogs.

Outside of work, Kacie loves to travel, shop, craft, and bake, and she brings that same creativity and curiosity into her leadership style. She is deeply passionate about family and connection, having been adopted at birth and more recently reconnecting with her biological family — a journey that has shaped her perspective on identity, resilience, and belonging.

Kacie is also a dedicated advocate for adoption, serving on the board of an Adoption Agency and supporting adoption causes across the state. She is also a huge advocate for marginalized communities including women, people of color, and formerly incarcerated individuals. She is excited to share her story and insights, and to connect with other women around leadership, growth, and purpose.

Tiffany Benitez is a seasoned technology leader with 23 years of experience across multiple industries, including finance, retail, and food manufacturing. She began her 12-year career at Bank of America, transitioning from the business side to technology after six years. Tiffany then moved to Walmart’s Global Data Technology organization, where she led portfolio strategy, Data Governance and the transformation to Agile and Product. She continued her career at Lowe’s, overseeing cyber-security strategy, data governance, GRC and communications, while also championing women in technology through BRG and Women in Tech leadership roles. As Senior Director at Tyson Foods, Tiffany led IT applications, business engagement, and S4 & Product transformation teams, co-chairing the Women’s Business Resource Group and leading Tyson’s Women in Technology group. Currently, Tiffany is the Head of Data Governance at Compass Digital, where she drives the transformation of enterprise data governance. A passionate advocate for women, she is also the founder and president of Women in Technology of Northwest Arkansas, a National non-profit, with chapters expanded all over the US, dedicated to empowering women in tech. Tiffany is an author, speaker, and advocate for change, using her strong people skills to inspire growth and leadership.

Angela Blake has photographed a lot of women without pants, which turns out to be an excellent way to learn how women think and feel about themselves. After more than a decade working with women on self-image and identity, Angela has learned one thing for certain: confidence isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you practice. 

Through her boudoir sessions and her SIR work, Angela helps women rewrite internal narratives through real action to expand their comfort thresholds, and consciously choose identities that support the lives they actually want to live. Her approach is practical, slightly rebellious, and refreshingly honest.

Allisson Butler-Kublanov has been practicing and falling in love with yoga for over 25 years.  She is the owner of Bee Well Yoga (www.beewellyoga.com) studio in Rogers, AR – where she teaches yoga and meditation, organizes the programming for the yoga school and offers nervous system resets for her clients with meditation and reiki practices. Her particular fondness for Vinyasa and Restorative Yoga led her to seek training at Saraswati’s Yoga Joint in Norwalk, CT with Mitchel Bleier and Kaia Yoga Studio in Westport, CT with Jillian Pransky.  She has also had the privilege of studying with Shiva Rea, Judith Lasater, Rodney Yee, Tias Little and Kathryn Budig. When she is not teachign yoga, you can find her spendign time with her family, running, soaking up the energy of the sun and devouring a good book.

Ashley Calderon is the founder of Infinite HERizon, a nonprofit platform focused on empowering women and the Latino community through mentorship, career access, and community partnerships. Her work centers on helping people see what’s possible and giving them the tools and networks to move forward.

She is also a Director at Walmart, where she leads work across Walmart International, bringing a global lens to conversations about growth, opportunity, and leadership. Locally, Ashley serves on the City of Bentonville Active Transportation Advisory Board and the Bentonville Fashion Week Advisory Board, contributing to community initiatives focused on inclusion, access, and opportunity across Northwest Arkansas.

As a first-generation Latina leader, Ashley brings a practical, lived perspective and is committed to building pathways rooted in access, support, and community.

At 58, Mollie Campbell made the life-changing decision to leave an eight-year marriage marked by abuse. Two years after leaving her abuser, she faced another major challenge—losing her job. In the face of these life events and trauma, Mollie knows firsthand what it means to experience resiliency, rebuilding her life and redefining her purpose. In other words, living her full, authentic self.

One of the most overlooked problems in the workplace is a lack of engagement and high turnover, which can often be a hidden result of domestic abuse and trauma that employees are silently coping with every day. Recognizing this critical issue, Mollie launched her professional speaking business to shed light on how domestic abuse impacts individuals and organizations and to help break the stigma surrounding these conversations.

Mollie is the Founder and CEO of Employers Against Domestic Abuse Alliance where she combines more than 30 years of experience as a human resources professional with her lived experience as a survivor to educate, advocate, and empower employers to remove the barriers for their employees who need help escaping domestic abuse. Through her work, Mollie brings the topic of domestic abuse out of the shadows, breaking down stereotypes and stigma while fostering safe, informed, and compassionate workplace cultures.

Meloni Carter is the Business & Community Development Manager at Shawmut Design and Construction/Starlite Building Services, where she strengthens relationships between project teams and the communities they serve. She brings extensive experience in executive operations from her work supporting senior leaders at Fortune 500 companies, including Walmart and Amazon, and is deeply committed to people-focused and community-driven initiatives.

Meloni serves on the boards of Havenwood, Dress for Success, the Jones Center Development Council, and is Chair-Elect of the Bentonville Satellite Rotary. She is also an active member of CREW and Women of Mercy.

A proud mother of three adult children, Meloni approaches leadership with a focus on balance, authenticity, and meaningful connection. A Bentonville native and University of Arkansas alum, she is dedicated to strengthening communities through collaboration, service, and purposeful engagement.

With more than 15 years of client leadership and sales experience, Lisa Chambers is a proven growth strategist, advisor, and executive coach. Over the course of her career, she has consistently delivered exceptional results—achieving more than $30M in personal sales revenues, $200M in account revenues and driving up to 400% account growth for global organizations.

Lisa’s career began with six years in the copier industry, where she learned the fundamentals of sales, persistence, and client service. She later expanded her expertise at Walmart in corporate recruiting before moving into strategic consulting sales. Her trajectory includes five years at Gartner as a Client Director and Sales Executive, followed by more than five years at Deloitte as a Client Relationship Executive. At Deloitte, she led one of the firm’s largest retail accounts, partnering with CEOs and senior executives to deliver solutions in organizational design, innovation, culture transformation, and building high-performing teams.

Lisa then joined Korn Ferry, where she served as a Global Account Leader within the consulting practice. In this role, she specialized in leadership development, assessment, training, and executive coaching. Known for embedding herself deeply in her clients’ businesses, Lisa is recognized for her ability to understand executive priorities, craft tailored solutions, and deliver measurable impact.

Across her career, Lisa has partnered with CEOs, senior executives, and sales leaders, serving as a trusted advisor and catalyst for growth. She is adept at selling both tangible products and strategic consulting offerings, bridging practical business needs with transformative leadership solutions.

As CEO and Coach of Catalyst Group, Lisa brings her experience full circle—helping leaders, teams, and organizations achieve breakthrough results. She leverages her background in sales excellence, client leadership, and executive coaching to inspire transformation and create lasting impact.

Rachel Cox, MS, LAC, CRC, is the Executive Director and CEO of Dress for Success Northwest Arkansas and a leader at the intersection of workforce development, counseling, and community impact. With more than 20 years of experience as a nonprofit executive, she has led organizations through startup growth, expansion, and capital campaigns, raised more than $5 million in support, and helped expand programs that have impacted thousands across the region.

A native of Northwest Arkansas, Rachel holds a bachelor’s degree in Communication and a master’s degree in Counseling from the University of Arkansas. She is a Licensed Associate Counselor and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor specializing in neurodiversity, trauma-informed care, and solution-focused approaches that empower individuals toward meaningful employment and long-term stability. She is currently launching her own private counseling practice to further this work.

Rachel previously ran for the Arkansas House of Representatives and has served on numerous nonprofit boards, including the Northwest Arkansas Center for Sexual Assault. Her leadership has been recognized with honors such as 40 Under 40, Remarkable Woman of Northwest Arkansas, and Celebrate Magazine’s Most Beautiful Woman of the Year.

An author, photographer, and content creator with more than 150,000 followers on TikTok, Rachel uses storytelling to amplify conversations around women’s empowerment and resilience. She is also a mother of seven and an adoptive mom to four teens now grown, experiences that continue to shape her commitment to building stronger futures for families and communities.

Nidhi Dahiya (Nids) is a 7-figure portrait photographer and business coach for photographers.

Through her business, Nids creations photography, she helps ambitious women and industry leaders elevate their presence with powerful, strategic portraits designed to position them as experts in their field. With a background in psychology and behavioral business research, Nidhi blends subconscious selling, identity branding, and visual storytelling to create images that command authority.

From building her photography business out of her living room to scaling it to multiple 7 figures while working full-time, Nidhi now mentors photographers to raise their prices, master sales psychology, and build magnetic brands.

When she’s not behind the camera, or coaching Nidhi is busy redefining what it means to be a woman: powerful, visible, and unapologetically successful.

Heidi Dennis has been a Licensed Counselor since 2011. She is also the author of the book Hello, Anxiety which helps readers learn how to work with their anxiety instead of fighting against it.  She loves to volunteer in her community (as a CASA advocate for foster children, board member for the Teen Action Support Center, at her local church, and as the owner of Thrive Collective Therapy).  

Heidi lives in Bentonville with her husband Mike and son Eli. She loves to travel, spend time with friends, and anything to do with being near or in the water (beach, lake, scuba diving, surfing, etc.)

Erika Finnestead, is a communications strategist, executive advisor, and public speaking coach with more than 15 years of experience helping leaders, nonprofits, and public-sector organizations expand their influence and impact. She previously served as Marketing Director for Ozark Regional Transit and Chief Marketing Officer for Preferred Office Technologies, and now consults nationally on strategy, messaging, and executive communications.

An award-winning communications leader recognized by the Southwest Transit Association for innovative public engagement and Gen Z campaigns, Erika has spoken at the Southwest Transit Association, Junior League leadership events, Idaho Public Transportation Summit, NextUp professional development workshops, Hustle in Heels (Rogers Chamber), Arkansas Transit Association, Bentonville Women’s Conference, and additional women’s leadership conferences across the region. She also works one-on-one as a media prep and presentation consultant, preparing executives and emerging leaders for interviews, board meetings, investor pitches, and high-stakes presentations.

At EmpowHER:CON, she will lead an interactive session on Public Speaking; redefining it beyond the stage. Because sometimes public speaking isn’t addressing hundreds. It’s speaking up in a boardroom or presenting an idea to four people. Those four people may run the company or the country. You never know which room will require your voice next.

Erika invites attendees to bring their real questions and concerns. Her goal is simple: to help women use their voice with clarity and confidence…and to see someone from this audience speaking on this stage next year.

Jennifer Flanary is a 42 year old professional with a wide range  of talents who was officially diagnosed ADHD at 39. 

Since her diagnosis she has found a new level of compassion and understanding for  herself and others who navigate this existence as a neurodivergent person in a Nero typical world. 

Her diagnosis presented a unique opportunity for personal growth and self acceptance. Her goal is to share her knowledge with others on the same path.

Jordan Franklin is the Founder of Gumption a hiring platform and the CEO of Stratice, LLC, a woman owned IT staffing firm. Jordan has over a decade of being a disruptor in IT Recruitment space, providing consulting, strategic growth, workforce development, business development, and many other staffing services with a new age flare.

Jordan has extensive knowledge of working with State, Local and Educational (SLED) entities and Federal Clients throughout the United States, as well as many other industries such as: not-for-profit, for-profit, and health and human services, many of which can be found on the Fortune 5000 list.  Under Jordan’s dynamic leadership, Stratice, LLC has been ranked 271 on Inc. 5000’s list of Fastest Growing Private Companies in the United States and ranked 8th on Inc. 5000’s list for Fastest Growing IT Management Companies in the country.

Jordan has been named in the 15 most influential people in staffing by World Staffing Association, been on the countries 40 under 40, and has been nominated for CEO of the year by Arkansas Business two times. She loves volunteering and finds Networking her favorite hobby!

Jules Gianneschi serves as the CHRO at America’s CAR-MART, Inc., where she has served since 2022. She has over 15 years of extensive experience in senior people leadership roles, honed during her +25 tenure at a Fortune One retailer. Her journey in the business world has equipped her to navigate a variety of business challenges from start-ups to turnarounds. She has done this by focusing her energy and time on executive coaching, developing high performance cultures, and driving organizational success through empowering associates to achieve their full potential.

 At America’s CAR-MART, she heads the people function of a public automotive retail and finance organization, overseeing the associate experience of corporate and dealerships with operations in 12 states with a network of over 135 dealerships. Her role involves shaping forward-looking talent strategies, fostering collaborative partnerships, and creating business value that positions the company for sustained growth and excellence.

 She draws on her experience of prior senior leadership roles where she led teams that supported diverse global functions and business units. From human resources to aviation, security, innovation, marketing, real estate, finance, legal, compliance, and ethics, she navigated the complexities of a large-scale enterprise. As a passionate advocate for helping others reach their aspirations, she leverages P&L and general management experience to not only develop talent benches but also empower executives and businesses to excel. Her reach extends beyond conventional HR roles; actively engaged in collaborative initiatives, driving change, and championing business initiatives that enhance the associate and customer experience.

Tina E. Gilbert is a distinguished Founder, Chief People Strategist, and Author, renowned for her expertise as an interactive workshop leader, facilitator, and leadership coach. With over twenty-five years of experience in the Human Resource industry, Tina hails from Little Rock, Arkansas. 

She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration with a focus on Marketing from the University of Central Arkansas. Continuing her educational journey, Tina pursued a Master of Arts in Management Leadership at Webster University. 

A perpetual learner, Tina is driven by a passion to help individuals discover and achieve their highest potential in life. In 2011, she realized her long-held dream with the establishment of Next Level Training Solutions Group LLC. This venture has evolved into a world-class business renowned for its innovative and high-quality training, workshops, and Human Resources services. 

Tina is committed to delivering excellence and has successfully deployed her mission of providing top-notch services and programs that yield tangible results. She is the author of the groundbreaking book and journal, ‘Next Level Thinking – 90 Days to Inspire Your Best Life,’ showcasing her prowess in coaching and training. This accomplishment positions her as a formidable leader qualified to teach her course, ‘How to Inspire Your Best Life.’ 

Tina’s professional certifications include being a Certified Facilitator with Development Dimensions International, a Certified Facilitator Trainer with Achieve Global, and a Certified Trainer and Coach with The John Maxwell Team. Furthermore, she holds certifications as a Minority Business Enterprise with the State of Arkansas and a Women’s Business Enterprise with the National Council. Additionally, Tina is certified in leadership coaching, specializing in Personal Leadership Effectiveness under the guidance of Dr. Ron Jenson.

Anna Beth Gorman is the Chief Executive Officer of the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas, an organization that is one of the leading equity partners in building women’s economic security across the state of Arkansas. During her tenure, the Women’s Foundation has seen tremendous growth while focusing on two signature initiatives, Girls of Promise and Women Empowered. Prior to leading the Women’s Foundation of Arkansas, she served as an executive with the Girl Scout organization for several years. In 2022, she was the Democratic Nominee for Arkansas Secretary of State. And for the last three years she has been recognized as one of the 250 most influential leaders in Arkansas by Arkansas Business. 

She is a past chairman of the North Little Rock Chamber of Commerce, active in Club 99 Rotary, board member of Arvest Bank Little Rock, and a very proud Girl Scout Troop Leader.  She began her career in Public Service working for the Texas Senate Committee on State Affairs. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Hollins University in Roanoke, Virginia, as well as a Master of Public Administration and a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

Robin Hampton is the Co-CEO of Stratice, LLC, a diverse-owned professional services and staffing firm based in Northwest Arkansas. Her career is a vibrant tapestry of growth, defined by an unwavering commitment to human connection. Robin’s journey began in the fast-paced worlds of food service and retail, where she first mastered the art of multitasking and the importance of the customer experience.

After a creative chapter in interior design, Robin spent 14 years at Home Depot, ascending through various leadership roles in corporate operations, human resources, and services management. These foundational years deepened her understanding of the customer journey and the power of building lasting professional relationships. Today, as an entrepreneur, she has grown Stratice from a single seed into a flourishing global enterprise, including a high-performing team in India. A lifelong learner and dedicated advocate for women’s financial independence, Robin finds her greatest fulfillment in serving as a “connector”—bridging the gap between talented professionals and life-changing opportunities to create a lasting, positive impact on her community.

Courtney Harms & her husband are in love with the NWA community, beauty, and all it has to offer. She has worked for several local nonprofits in NWA focusing primarily on child abuse and trauma. Through her own personal journey of compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma, the dream for Be Restored was born. She realized that while NWA offers amazing support and resources for the community, it was lacking in necessary support for Helping Professionals. She is passionate about serving alongside the heroes in our community and supporting them to thrive and grow both professionally and personally.

Tracy Henry is a Senior Manager at Sam’s Club with over 20 years of experience across the Walmart and Sam’s Club ecosystem, spanning financial services, merchandising, marketing, and account management. Known for her collaborative and customer-focused leadership style, Tracy is a trusted relationship builder and advocate for equity and inclusion. She proudly leads an Empowerment Circle within Walmart, bridging whole health practices and Walmart values to foster growth and connection. Tracy is honored to serve as a moderator for Dress for Success NWA’s 2nd Annual EmpowHER: Con, supporting the mission to uplift and empower everyone on the journey to economic independence and success.

Marcela Hernandez is a resilient and purpose-driven leader whose journey began in El Salvador before moving to the United States at just 10 years old. Transitioning to a new country meant learning an entirely new language, adapting to a different culture, and finding her voice in unfamiliar spaces. English became her second language, but determination became her strength.

Navigating those early challenges shaped Marcela into the leader she is today—adaptable, empathetic, and deeply committed to empowering others who are building confidence in new environments.

Over the past three years with Sam’s Club, Marcela has grown into a strong and people-focused leader. She has taken on increasing responsibility, supporting daily operations, developing associates, driving results, and creating a culture centered around teamwork and member service. Her leadership style reflects her story: inclusive, hardworking, and rooted in lifting others up.

Laura James is the Assistant Vice Chancellor for Student Support, providing leadership, organizational administration, and other purposeful oversight of key functional areas that champion student success. She has worked in higher education since 2009, with the majority of her time in disability support services. For 11 years prior to working in higher education, Laura managed non-profit core programs and services for individuals and families experiencing domestic and sexual violence, as well as food/financial insecurity. She received a master’s degree in counseling with a concentration in both Rehabilitation and School Counseling at the University of Arkansas.

Jessica C. Kitchens is a therapist, author, researcher, advocate, consultant, and speaker based in Northwest Arkansas. She owns two private mental health clinics dedicated to offering neurodiversity-affirming therapy to neurodivergent populations. One of her practices is a small-group practice specializing in consulting, training, and counseling, with a focus on topics such as autism and Neurodiversity-affirming practices. With over 18 years of experience in therapy, Jessica holds various certifications and licenses in Play Therapy, Substance Use, Addictions, and Cognitive Disorders.

Jessica earned her undergraduate degree in Human Services Counseling from East Central University in Oklahoma, followed by a dual Master’s degree in Marriage and Family Therapy and Community Counseling from John Brown University in Arkansas. Additionally, she holds an MBA from Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Currently, Jessica is also a Ph.D. Candidate in Change Leadership for Equity and Inclusion at the University of Central Arkansas, focusing on Community Leadership and Change.

Jessica has personal experience as a late-diagnosed autistic individual and is a mother of five neurodivergent children ranging in age from 12 to 25. Several of whom are diagnosed with both Autism and ADHD. Additionally, she is a citizen of the Citizen Potawatomi Nation. This lived experience informs and emphasizes her specialization, advocacy, writing, and research focus in various critical areas. These include Neurodiversity-affirming and Strength-Based practices; Inclusive and Decolonial Leadership; Pathological Demand Avoidance; autistic autonomy; autistic mental health; Participatory Action Research; deconstructing religion; and Indigenous and Decolonizing perspectives on Autism.

Kelly Krout is a licensed social worker, children’s book author, and former foster parent. She has been a local and statewide advocate for policy that supports families, education, and overall well-being.

She works as a therapist at an emergency children’s shelter and has provided professional development and education on mental health topics. Kelly and her husband have seven sons, including a few they adopted from foster care. She spends her free time reading, running, and watching all those boys play basketball.

Amy Langston is a mindful leadership speaker, executive, and 500-HR RYT Yoga Instructor who helps organizations reduce burnout, strengthen trust, and build resilient teams. She serves as the Founder & CEO of RGB Wellness, Chief Revenue Officer at Greene IS, and teaches weekly yoga classes at Blue Yoga Nyla.

Amy works at the intersection of strategy, communication, and well being. She blends corporate experience and leadership frameworks with nervous system education, accessible movement, and practical tools for presence. Her approach is grounded, evidence-informed, and human. It is equally at home in boardrooms and classrooms — structured enough for executives, and welcoming enough for those drawn to deeper inner work.

Her perspective is informed by more than 20 years leading teams through growth, change, and pressure, combined with lived experience that shaped her belief that strength and empathy are partners, not opposites. Like many professionals, Amy faced a pivotal moment when severe burnout forced her to pause and reevaluate her path. That experience became a catalyst, allowing her to draw deeply from her education, expertise, and the values she held in head and heart. Through the journey, she strengthened her passion for creating meaningful change, embarking on a second career chapter dedicated to fostering healthier, more resilient workplaces for others seeking similar transformation.

Stephanie Magnuson serves as Vice President of Human Resources for Tyson Foods’ Poultry segment, leading the people strategy for one of the company’s largest and most operationally complex business units. In this role, she drives talent strategy, organizational design, and leadership development initiatives that strengthen performance and culture across a global footprint.

Previously, Stephanie served as Vice President and Strategic People Partner for Tyson’s Enterprise Functions, Global McDonald’s business, and International Business Unit, where she played a pivotal role in building a unified global HR model. She partnered closely with business and HR leaders across more than 30 countries to align people, processes, and technology to business outcomes, positioning Tyson for scalable growth in international markets.

With leadership experience at Walmart, Murphy USA, and Tyson Foods, Stephanie is known for advancing HR strategy through innovation, collaboration, and a focus on talent development. She led Tyson’s global HR transformation, redesigning processes, launching a People Operations function, and implementing Workday globally—delivering both efficiency and impact across the enterprise.

Recognized by Arkansas Business as one of the 40 Under 40 professionals in 2022, Stephanie is a native to Northwest Arkansas and holds a bachelor’s degree in education from the University of Arkansas and serves on the Board of Directors for Dress for Success Northwest Arkansas, helping women achieve economic independence through career support.

Outside of work, Stephanie and her husband Cody stay active raising their two children, Beckett and Isabella, and supporting their many school, sports, and community activities.

Miguel Marin serves as a Manager in Marketplace Finance at Walmart, where he supports strategy and forecasting to help advance the company’s U.S. business. He began his career through Walmart’s Accounting & Finance Development Program, gaining broad experience across international finance, corporate partnerships, and forecasting. As a first-generation professional, Miguel is passionate about mentorship and draws on his own journey to guide others as they navigate their careers. He is also actively involved in AFDP recruiting, where he mentors interns and recent graduates as they launch their professional paths.

 Beyond Walmart, Miguel has extended his commitment to growth and opportunity by supporting small businesses through Conexion de Negocios Latinos, a business accelerator and consulting nonprofit. There, he provided guidance to emerging entrepreneurs to help them propel their businesses and leadership impact. Originally from Michoacán, Mexico, Miguel is a proud University of Arkansas alum who now calls Northwest Arkansas home. Outside of work, he enjoys playing trumpet with his mariachi group, traveling, and spending quality time with family.

As a key member of the Sam’s Club Talent Acquisition Team at Walmart, Kimberly McGee champions the pursuit of excellence – strategically attracting, engaging, and hiring exceptional talent to power member-obsessed innovation, accelerate digital transformation and support long-term, sustainable growth at Sam’s Club.  She has over twenty years of corporate retail experience with leadership roles across the enterprise. Kimberly is a culture champion and people-focused leader. 

Kimberly is passionate about community service and committed to empowering women to succeed on a personal and professional level. She is a dedicated member of several organizations including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, NextUp Northwest Arkansas, Junior League of Northwest Arkansas, and The Links, Incorporated. She was recently named “Ones to Watch” by Celebrate Arkansas Magazine, “Leading Ladies” by 3W and honored with the “Monica Turner Game Changer Award” by NextUp.

Kimberly has a Bachelor of Science degree in Management Information Systems with a concentration in Computer Software Systems from The University of Alabama and a Master of Business Administration from Webster University. Kimberly holds the Society for Human Resource Management – Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) and Professional in Human Resources (PHR) designations.

Kimberly currently resides in Bentonville, Arkansas. She enjoys traveling, crafting, and cheering on her alma mater, The University of Alabama. 

Zoe McGee, MCD, CCC-SLP is a Speech-Language Pathologist with over a decade of clinical expertise spanning the education and healthcare sectors. Her career is defined by a steadfast commitment to providing high-quality, patient-centered care for individuals across the lifespan. Beyond her professional contributions, Zoe is deeply committed to community stewardship, dedicating her time to advocating for underserved populations and supporting the local organizations that make Northwest Arkansas thrive. As a Rogers native, Zoe currently invests in various local community organizations, which includes serving as a New Member Ambassador for the Junior League of NWA and is an active member in Women+ in Tech of NWA. As a proud alumna from Auburn University, she embodies the esteemed virtues of the Auburn Creed, which prioritizes education, hard work, and integrity in both her professional and personal life. Outside of her professional work, Zoe cherishes her role as a wife and mother, and finds joy in traveling, reading and discovering the vibrant culture and hidden gems of Northwest Arkansas.

Jeannie McIntire spent nearly two decades in the wholesale club industry, rising from buyer to Vice President at Sam’s Club, leading billion-dollar categories in one of retail’s most competitive and male-dominated environments. She knows firsthand what it takes to break through, earn respect, and lead boldly when the room wasn’t built for you. Today, she channels that experience into nonprofit strategy, coaching, and her podcast, helping women claim their power professionally, financially, and personally. A nonprofit board member and appointed civic leader in Bentonville, Arkansas, Jeannie is passionate about helping women understand their worth, own their voice, and lead boldly in every room they walk into.

Outside of work, Stephanie and her husband Cody stay active raising their two children, Beckett and Isabella, and supporting their many school, sports, and community activities.

Juli McWhorter, RN, BSN, MSN, serves as Chief Executive Officer of Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville.With more than three decades of service within Northwest Health, her leadership journey reflects a deep commitment to building world-class healthcare for the communities of Northwest Arkansas.

Beginning her career at the bedside, Juli’s clinical foundation spans surgical intensive care, cardiac rehabilitation, cardiac stepdown, patient education and flight nursing. That frontline experience continues to shape her leadership philosophy—one grounded in quality, compassion, accountability and excellence. Her progression through Chief Nursing Officer, Chief Operating Officer, Chief Administrative Officer and Chief Quality Officer roles prepared her to lead with both operational rigor and heart.

Under Juli’s leadership, Willow Creek Women’s Hospital achieved national distinction, including becoming the first hospital in the nation named a Center of Excellence for VBAC, the first in Arkansas to achieve Baby-Friendly designation and Perinatal Care Certification by The Joint Commission, and earning the Press Ganey Human Experience Guardian of Excellence Award®. These milestones reflect her unwavering focus on elevating standards, improving outcomes and delivering exceptional patient experiences.

Today, as CEO of Northwest Medical Center – Bentonville, Juli is focused on building centers of excellence, recruiting top physician talent, strengthening service lines and positioning Bentonville as the healthcare destination of choice in the region. Her vision extends beyond hospital walls—she believes healthcare institutions should serve as anchors for community vitality and long-term regional growth.

Juli’s commitment to stewardship is evident in her community leadership. She serves on the Board of Directors for Dress for Success NWA and Inspiration Point Center for the Arts, supporting initiatives that empower women and enrich cultural life. She is also an active at-large member of the Rogers Lowell Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Bentonville Area Chamber of Commerce, advancing collaboration that strengthens Northwest Arkansas for generations to come.

She holds both her Bachelor and Master of Science in Nursing degrees from Western Governors University.

Juli’s legacy is defined not simply by titles or awards, but by transformation—of teams, of systems, and of communities. Her work is driven by a singular purpose: to build healthcare organizations that deliver world-class care today while creating a foundation of excellence.

Megan Mecham discovered yoga over 20 years ago as a teen, initially drawn to its physical benefits. As her practice deepened, she realized yoga nurtures not just the body, but the mind and spirit. Inspired by Sri K. Pattabhi Jois’s quote, “Everywhere looking only God seeing,” Megan believes yoga helps us recognize the Divine in all things. A certified RYT200 & E-RYT500 instructor, she is passionate about sharing yoga and meditation’s transformative power. Above all, she is a devoted wife, mother of three, and lifelong student and teacher, honored to share the gift of yoga with others.

Frank Niles, Ph.D., is a Strategic Advisor and Fractional CHRO who works with senior leaders and organizations around the world to strengthen leadership, culture, and performance. He helps growth-focused companies and established enterprises align their people strategy with real business results. Frank serves as President of the Board of Directors for Dress for Success Northwest Arkansas, where he supports efforts that help women achieve economic independence and build meaningful careers. His insights have been featured in Inc., Fast Company, CNN, NBC, NPR, and other national media outlets. He speaks internationally on leadership and what it takes for people and organizations to thrive. Contact: frank@frankniles.com

Native to Northwest Arkansas, proud mother of three incredible humans, and wife of 26+ years, Jamye Perry has dedicated over 25 years to nursing and caring for others. Her career has spanned cardiology, ICU, and emergency medicine — serving patients in some of their most critical moments.

During COVID, Jamye traveled with FEMA to national hotspots, witnessing both devastation and resilience firsthand. It was during that season she felt a deep calling to pivot — to create something of her own that blended medicine, artistry, and purpose.

The transition into aesthetics wasn’t easy, but she knew it was exactly where God was leading her. Five years later, that leap of faith became Ziva Aesthetics & Wellness — a space rooted in confidence, transformation, and wholehearted care.

You’ll notice the butterfly woven into Ziva’s identity. It holds profound meaning for the Perry family. After losing her youngest son, Bryce, in a tragic accident in 2024 — a mother’s worst nightmare — Jamye made a choice: to lean in, to push forward, and to honor his life by living boldly.

Kachia Phillips is a survivor, advocate, and community leader dedicated to helping others find safety, healing, and opportunity. After overcoming human trafficking, domestic violence, and addiction, she now uses her voice and lived experience to empower others on their own paths forward.

Kachia was named Dress for Success Northwest Arkansas Success Ambassador of the Year and serves as the Program Coach and Survivor Leader for Hub of Hope NWA. In this role, she educates the community on human trafficking, supports fellow survivors in their healing journeys, and works to create pathways for stability, growth, and long-term success.

Beth Pittman is a distinguished Human Resources professional with over two decades of expertise in  talent acquisition across consumer goods, retail, and healthcare industries. Beth’s  career journey demonstrates her exceptional ability to identify talent and develop  leadership potential.  

Beth began her professional path at Walmart Inc., where she honed her recruiting skills  across multiple departments. In 2009, she joined an Executive Search firm as an  Executive Recruiter, leveraging her expertise to serve clients in consumer goods. She  was promoted to Senior Partner, where she joined the leadership team and drove  strategic growth initiatives.  

In 2020, Beth co-founded Skills Lab Training, a venture dedicated to empowering both  individuals and organizations. The company offers comprehensive coaching for  professionals and students on career planning, job search strategies, interview  preparation, networking techniques, and negotiation skills. 

Additionally, Skills Lab Training provides recruiting services and specialized leadership  development programs for corporations, nonprofit organizations, and boards. 

As a Northwest Arkansas resident for over 20 years, Beth has cultivated extensive  connections with regional leaders.  

She serves on the Advisory Board for UAMS Northwest. Her industry insights make her  a sought-after speaker at HR conferences, where she shares valuable perspectives on  recruiting trends.

Sapna Ramachandran is VP-People at Engine. She is a transformational leader and seasoned talent acquisition  professional with over 15 years of experience driving end-to-end recruitment strategies. She has  built and led high-performing teams across technology, logistics, consulting, CPG, medical, and  other industries, leveraging AI and innovative technologies to elevate hiring operations. 

Throughout her career, Sapna has earned a reputation for operational excellence turning technical  recruiting functions into measurable success stories. 

Beyond her professional work, Sapna is also deeply involved in the community. She serves on the  boards at the Bentonville Chamber of Commerce, Signature Bank of Arkansas, Women in Tech NWA, Tech Fest and NWA Kannada Sangha. In 2022, she was honored with the Best Employee of  the Year Award in NWA for Small Business. 

Based in Northwest Arkansas for more than 12 years, she has witnessed the growth, diversity and economic development of the region. She has a keen interest in engaging and attracting top talent to move to NWA from across the country.  

A firm believer that community growth begins at the grassroots level, Sapna is all about passion  for cause and is excited about all the possible progress our community is going to see in the near  future!

Angelita Rodriguez Dobbs is a proud Latina educator, entrepreneur, and first-generation college graduate—first-generation in higher education, business ownership, and real estate investment. As a self-described “first-gen everything,” she is committed to breaking generational constraints and redefining what is possible at every stage of life.

After 22 years as a paraprofessional at 47 years old, Angelita returned to college as a nontraditional student and is now completing her Master of Arts in Teaching at the University of Arkansas. She is also a multi-property owner and co-owner of KandA Properties, LLC, intentionally building generational stability through education and investment.

Her work centers on women who are starting over—single women, women navigating transition, and women from marginalized communities who believe that their time has passed. She is intentional about occupying rooms where women of color are often underrepresented, knowing her presence creates permission for students and young people—especially first-generation girls and boys—to imagine themselves there too.

Angelita is passionate about serving as a resource and guide for first-generation students who need clarity, strategy, and someone who understands the weight and responsibility of being “the first.”

“My legacy is not inherited; it is constructed and I am building mine boldy, openly and unapologetically.” 

Gabriela Rodriguez is a first-generation American raised in a hard working immigrant family who instilled in her the values of resilience, faith, and relentless ambition. From a happy, active childhood in North Carolina to rising into healthcare leadership, her journey reflects courage, discipline, and vision.

Today, Gabriela serves as a Director of Practice Operations, overseeing multi-specialty clinics and hospital-aligned services. She is deeply committed to developing strong teams, elevating women into leadership, and building systems where excellence becomes the standard—not the exception.

Her mission is clear: empower women to lead boldly, negotiate confidently, and build legacies without shrinking their ambition.

Sarah Saragusa (reallifeSarah918)  is a Northwest Arkansas content creator, Arkansas native, and community connector whose TikTok platform highlights the best local businesses in the region. From hidden gem restaurants and trendy boutiques to trusted salons and even dentist, Sarah brings local spots to life through authentic storytelling and engaging digital content.

Passionate about supporting small businesses and empowering women in entrepreneurship, Sarah uses social media as a tool to build visibility, strengthen community, and help women confidently grow their brands. At this conference, she will share how leveraging TikTok can turn everyday influence into meaningful local impact.

Anne Shelley currently serves as Assistant Director of Talent and Leadership Development for Human Resources at the University of Arkansas where she facilitates learning opportunities that support people in becoming more effective leaders. Prior to her current role, she served the community through the university’s IDEALS Institute.  IDEALS was a training, consultancy, and research institute dedicated to creating more inclusive workplaces and communities.  Through the Institute, she and her colleagues worked with numerous nonprofit community leaders representing organizations of all sizes, sectors, and industries to affect organizational change. Prior to joining IDEALS, she was a longtime nonprofit executive, most recently serving as the Executive Director of the NWA Center for Sexual Assault.

Carol Silva Moralez is the Executive Director of Upskill NWA, a mission-driven nonprofit that provides lower-income workers with access to education and pathways into high-demand, high-paying healthcare careers. Under her leadership, Upskill NWA has admitted hundreds of participants, achieved strong persistence and placement rates, and documented substantial income gains for graduates—establishing the program as a replicable model for regional workforce transformation.

Moralez’s leadership and impact have been recognized across Arkansas and nationally. She was named one of Arkansas Money & Politics’ Top 10 C-Suite Executives (2023), one of the Northwest Arkansas Business Journal’s Top 10 Women in Business (2020), and highlighted by Axios as a 2022 Power Player to Watch. In 2023, Upskill NWA and the Excellerate Foundation received the national HUD Secretary’s Award for Public-Philanthropic Partnerships.

A seasoned executive and leadership coach, Moralez brings more than two decades of operations and leadership experience, including senior roles at Walmart and work in leadership development and diversity initiatives. Her professional expertise informs Upskill NWA’s sector-based workforce development model, with its emphasis on career navigation and wraparound supports.

She is also a published contributor to The Palgrave Encyclopedia of Leadership and Organizational Change, where her chapter explores Upskill NWA’s societal impact and the role of servant leadership in advancing equitable career pathways.

Moralez extends her leadership through civic and policy service, including appointments to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis Community Development Advisory Council, the Arkansas Community Health Institute Policy Board, the Rogers-Lowell Chamber Board, and as Vice President of the Community Clinic NWA Board of Directors.

Devayani Supekar is a Senior Operations Manager at Walmart, leading strategic initiatives to strengthen execution, culture, and cross-functional performance across the enterprise. She has a decade of experience driving critical programs with long-term impact. Devayani is deeply passionate about uplifting and empowering women across her organization and community. As a dedicated community leader, she serves on the NWA Women’s Shelter Board, supports the NWA Children’s Shelter (EverHope Arkansas), NextUp Northwest Arkansas, Women in Technology of NWA and Children’s and Family Advocacy Center of NWA advising, leading and volunteering for philanthropic programs to advance engagement and equity across the region.

Giuliana Tartarini is an HR Manager and People Partner based in Bentonville, Arkansas, with over a decade of experience supporting large, complex organizations. In December, she was promoted into the Facility Services team, where she partners closely with a Senior Director overseeing the Southeast territory, providing strategic HR support across a multi-site, regional footprint.

In her current role, Giuliana supports leaders responsible for geographically dispersed teams, aligning people strategy with operational and business priorities across the Southeast. She brings deep expertise in business partnering, leadership coaching, training and development, and workforce strategy, with a strong focus on enabling leaders to effectively lead through complexity and change.

Giuliana is known for her relationship-driven approach, prioritizing trust, connection, and a strong understanding of the business to deliver thoughtful, people-centered solutions at scale. In addition to her corporate role, she remains actively engaged in the Northwest Arkansas community through mentoring and nonprofit board leadership, reflecting her commitment to service, development, and inclusive growth.

Ali Taylor is a strategic human resources professional with diverse professional experience spanning the public, private and non-profit sectors.  Since joining Tyson Foods in 2023, she has supported enterprise-wide HR initiatives and currently works with HR teams across the Poultry segment and corporate functions to drive best-in-class HR partnership.  A Conway native and proud University of Central Arkansas alumna, Ali has lived in NWA since 2020 and volunteered with Dress for Success for 3 years.

Yasmin Tooley is a Senior Merchant at Walmart with more than nine years of experience across merchandising, omni-channel strategy, and merchandise planning. She currently leads the Nursery category, partnering cross-functionally to deliver customer-focused assortments, build strong supplier relationships, and drive sustainable business growth.

Throughout her career, Yasmin has progressed through roles of increasing responsibility, gaining broad experience across eCommerce, seasonal, footwear, and children’s businesses. She is recognized for her thoughtful leadership style and her ability to translate data into clear, actionable strategies that balance customer needs with business outcomes.

A University of Arkansas alum, Yasmin remains actively engaged with her alma mater by guest lecturing in sales courses and participating in ride-along programs that provide students with real-world exposure to retail and merchandising.

Outside of her professional work, Yasmin is cherishing life with her two young children and husband. This season of life continues to shape her perspective, grounding her leadership in empathy, balance, and purpose.

Taylor Toreno’s journey is a powerful narrative of resilience, empowerment, and an unwavering commitment to giving back to the community. Losing her mother at the age of 15, Taylor encountered profound challenges early in life but transformed her grief into a driving force for personal growth and determination. This pivotal experience fortified her resilience and ignited a lifelong passion for empowering others through education, mentorship, and service.

Taylor’s accomplishments have been widely recognized by prestigious organizations. She was named one of Celebrate Arkansas magazine’s “Ones to Watch,” honored in Arkansas Business‘s “20 in their 20s,” and included in Talk Business & Politics‘ “Fast 15 Class” — showcasing her impressive achievements and leadership at a young age.

Professionally, Taylor excels as a Senior Manager for Walmart Business in marketing retention for their membership program. In this role, she supports small businesses and nonprofits, embodying her dedication to community-building. Beyond her professional successes,

Taylor actively serves her community as a leader and advocate. She is involved in numerous nonprofits, including the Smitten Kitten Cat Café, Dress for Success NWA, Women in Technology NWA, and NextUp Northwest Arkansas, where she contributes her energy and  vision to fostering positive change.

Renowned for her tenacity, passion, and exceptional networking abilities, Taylor’s leadership also extends to mentoring Walmart associates across the United States. Her ability to balance a thriving career, meaningful community involvement, and impactful mentorship  demonstrates her deep commitment to creating a cycle of empowerment and growth, leaving an indelible mark on everyone she touches.

Felicia Walker is a seasoned supply chain executive and community advocate. As  Senior Manager at Sam’s Club, she leads new supplier onboarding and owns packaging quality for national brands — driving compliance, scalability, and cross-functional collaboration across retail operations. Over a 21-year career in supply chain, Felicia has developed deep expertise in supplier relationship management, packaging strategy, and stakeholder engagement, pairing operational rigor with a creative, brand-forward approach.

She is deeply committed to service and mentorship: a member of Gamma Phi Delta Sorority, Incorporated, an active volunteer with the Northwest Arkansas Junior League (which focuses on domestic-violence awareness), a committee member for new sponsor onboarding with NEXTUP, and a dedicated volunteer for Dress for Success. Recently selected to serve on a board of directors, Felicia draws inspiration from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s call to serve others and applies that servant-leadership philosophy to both business and community initiatives. 

A proud mother and passionate supporter of the Arkansas Razorbacks, Felicia also channels a lifelong interest in fashion — a childhood dream of exploring Parisian trends — into her approach to packaging and brand presentation. She speaks and advises on the intersection of supply chain excellence, packaging quality, sustainability, and inclusive leadership.

Melodieann Whiteley is the founder of Rebel Way Media Network and a Visibility & Personal Brand Strategist who helps women build authentic authority and become impossible to overlook. A former U.S. Navy Cryptologist and Russian Linguist, she is known for transforming powerful personal stories into magnetic leadership platforms. She is the author of four books, an international speaker, and host of The Rebel Tribe Podcast. Through her Rebel Way™ approach, she teaches women that visibility isn’t vanity—it’s influence. Her message is clear: your voice is your power, and your presence is your advantage.

Ericka Young-Melber is an entrepreneur, community leader, and CEO of Young’s Moving Service, an award-winning company she built from the ground up after beginning her business journey at just 17 years old. Today, Young’s is recognized as Arkansas’s only 100% woman-owned moving company, proudly operating debt-free and delivering trusted residential, commercial, local, and long-distance moving services with excellence and integrity .

Under her leadership, the company has earned numerous honors, including Best of the Best for eight consecutive years, Top 30 Leaders Under 30, and Top Family Business in Northwest Arkansas.

In addition to Young’s Moving Service, Ericka owns and co-founded three additional companies, expanding her impact across business development, community empowerment, and service-based industries throughout Northwest Arkansas.

A devoted wife and mother of six, Ericka is passionate about serving the senior community and building strong networks of women who uplift, empower, and lead together. As moderator for The Future of Work: AI & Women’s Careers, she brings energy, clarity, and a deep belief that women are not just adapting to the future — they are shaping it.

Ericka’s guiding principle: “To truly MOVE forward in business and life: Motivate with purpose, Observe with intention, Visualize with empathy, and Empathize with heart.”

Leslie Zanoff is a former magazine publisher and co-founder of 3W Magazine turned meditation teacher and mindful leadership speaker. She works with high-achieving men and women to help them move from stress and overwhelm to calm, confident and purposeful action.

A two-time founder with more than 20 years of experience working with Fortune 500 companies, Leslie brings a deep understanding of leadership into the personal growth space. She believes true leadership begins with mindset, not just strategy and execution.

After navigating her own health journey, Leslie became a Certified Meditation instructor and now teaches how mindfulness is essential to whole health and intentional living. She also hosts the podcast A Lifetime to Learn.

 She and her husband Ramon are raising their two children in Northwest Arkansas, where she serves on nonprofit committees for the NWA Women’s Brain Health Initiative, Arkansas Children’s Northwest Hospital Auxiliary, Hope Cancer Resources and Mercy Hospital Foundation’s Women With A Mission giving society.

Ashley Zebley is Sr. Director of Realty Business Strategy for Walmart, where she leads enterprise-scale initiatives that shape the future of the business while cultivating high-performing, people-centered teams. With more than a decade of experience leading complex programs at a Fortune One company, Ashley brings a rare blend of strategic rigor and human-centered leadership to her work. 

Throughout her career, Ashley has built and led teams in environments defined by scale, change, and ambiguity. She is known for fostering cultures grounded in trust, accountability, and empowerment—where people feel valued, challenged, and inspired to do their best work. Her leadership philosophy centers on the belief that strong team culture is not accidental; it is intentionally designed through clarity, connection, and courageous conversations. 

In addition to her corporate leadership role, Ashley is an executive coach and leadership mentor who helps individuals rise above challenge and lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose. She is deeply committed to equipping leaders with the mindset and tools needed to create environments where both performance and people thrive.

 Beyond her professional work, Ashley is a national advocate for women in the bleeding disorders community, contributing to policy-shaping efforts, peer support, and awareness initiatives that inspire resilience and hope. 

At the core of Ashley’s leadership is a passion for partnering with those who have faced adversity yet remain driven to grow. She believes that when leaders intentionally build strong cultures, they unlock not only performance—but potential that endures.