BECOME A MEMBER

Women’s Leadership Conference

NOVEMBER 20, 2025

RISE

This is more than a theme; it’s a call to action.

Together, we RISE to meet the moment, to support one another, and to build a better future for all. This conference is dedicated to cultivating profound bonds among women of all generations. We invite you to explore avenues for workplace empowerment, expand your professional network, and unlock your full potential with over 600 other attendees.

1763647200

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We all RISE.

Agenda

RISE Exhibitor Hall

Engage with Exhibitors: Connect with top companies and organizations, including groundbreaking women-led businesses, showcasing their latest innovations and solutions.

Build Your Network: Mingle with fellow attendees, mentors, and industry veterans to forge powerful new connections and professional relationships.

Access Career-Boosting Resources: Find a wealth of tools, publications, and insights designed specifically to help women advance in their careers.

Grab Your Swag: Collect exclusive giveaways, materials, and gifts.

8:30 AM – 2:30 PM

Opening Keynote Address

OPENING KEYNOTE | MAIN STAGE

The Power of Purpose-Driven Leadership

Ready for an exclusive opening keynote fireside chat featuring two of Delaware’s most influential leaders? In this dynamic discussion, these two powerhouses will explore what it means to lead with purpose in the nonprofit world. Drawing on their unique experiences in healthcare and higher education, they will share personal insights on topics ranging from leading with love and excellence and the power of cross-sector partnerships to redefining success and cultivating resilience. This must-attend session will offer a rare glimpse into the minds of two women who are transforming their industries and communities.

Keynote Speakers:

9:15 AM – 9:45 AM

WILMINGTON HALL

Session I Workshop Offerings

WORKSHOP 1 | DRAVO AUDITORIUM

The Yes Test

Cultivating Your Workflow by Saying Yes (Strategically)

We’ll dive beyond the initial rush of “yes” to understand how intentionally saying “yes” can unlock new pathways, foster innovation, and significantly enhance your professional and personal workflow. This isn’t about overburdening yourself; it’s about learning to identify the right “yeses” that align with your goals, propel your growth, and create meaningful connections. Discover how to overcome hesitation, embrace calculated risks, and navigate the unexpected opportunities that arise when you adopt a more affirmative mindset.

Speakers:

WORKSHOP 2 | CHRISTINA BALLROOM

Women’s Leadership in Strategic Public-Private Partnerships

Forging the Future of Public-Private Impact

In an ever-evolving world, resilient communities are built through foresight and collaboration. This workshop empowers women leaders to be at the forefront of “future-proofing” our societies through strategic Public-Private Partnerships. Explore how to identify critical needs, secure resources, and implement sustainable solutions that address tomorrow’s challenges today. Gain actionable insights on how to champion long-term vision, manage risks, and create impactful, enduring collaborations that safeguard and advance community well-being for generations.

Speakers:

10:00 AM – 10:45 AM

Session II Workshop Offerings

WORKSHOP 3 | DRAVO AUDITORIUM

Build a Better Table

Building Your Personal Board of Advisors

This session will guide you in creating your own personal board of advisors—a diverse and dynamic circle of mentors, peers, sponsors, and allies who will champion your growth, challenge your perspectives, and help you navigate your unique career path. 

Speakers:

  • Panelist: Kim Eppehimer, Friendship House and Limen Recovery + Wellness, CEO
  • Panelist: Margie López Waite, ASPIRA of Delaware, CEO
  • Panelist: Dr. Cherese Winstead, College of Agriculture, Science & Technology (CAST) at Delaware State University, Dean
  • Moderator: Brenda Reynolds, Leadership & Org Consultant/Coach, Intl & TEDx Speaker, Award-Winning Author

WORKSHOP 4 | CHRISTINA BALLROOM

Women Leaders, Chambers, and Inclusive Governance

RISE at the County, State and Regional Level

We’ll discuss the changing of the guard within these influential organizations and how their leadership is crucial for encouraging government officials and building truly inclusive governance. Join us to learn how women in these pivotal roles are shaping policy, driving economic growth, and building stronger, more representative communities.

Speakers:

  • Panelist: Yvonne Deadwyler, New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, President & CEO
  • Panelist: Kelly Basile, Delaware State Chamber of Commerce, Chief Operating Officer
  • Panelist: Regina Hairston, African-American Chamber of Commerce of PA, NJ & DE, President & CEO
  • Panelist: Michelle Gramlich, Middletown Area Chamber of Commerce, CEO
  • Moderator: Carrie Gray, Gray Breakthroughs, Founder & Principal

11:00 AM – 11:45 AM

Luncheon with Awards and Closing Keynote Address

AWARDS | MAIN STAGE

Awards Ceremony

The awards at the Women’s Leadership Conference are a cornerstone of the event, designed to recognize outstanding achievements, inspire future leaders, and strengthen the professional community. They validate the hard work and dedication of women who are making a significant impact across various fields and at different stages of their careers.

Honorees:

CLOSING KEYNOTE | MAIN STAGE

Voices that RISE

Rosie Allen-Herring is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in corporate finance, strategic leadership, and business strategy. She is known for her ability to convene diverse groups to create collective impact. In a dynamic fireside chat moderated by Delaware’s own Dr. Michelle Taylor, Rosie will explore her journey from a young professional to a nationally recognized leader. She’ll discuss key lessons learned, including how to navigate systemic challenges, build resilient organizations, and champion equity and inclusion at every level.

Keynote Speaker:

Moderator:

12:00 PM – 1:45 PM

WILMINGTON HALL

Cheers to a Fabulous Conference

As the conference sessions conclude, join us to say cheers. This is your chance to continue conversations, build new relationships, and celebrate the day’s insights. Enjoy a hosted open bar while networking with fellow leaders and speakers.

1:45 PM – 2:30 PM

Keynote Speakers

Uniting Women. Leading Change.

Dr. Janice Nevin

President & CEO

ChristianaCare

Read Bio

Dr. Laura Carlson

Interim President

University of Delaware

Read Bio

Rosie Allen-Herring

President & CEO

United Way of the National Capital Area

Read Bio

Award Honorees

In times of challenge and change, we RISE as women in business, as community impact leaders, and as public officials by coming together with purpose.

Female Leader of the Year Award

Yvette Santiago

Regional Director of Community Engagement and Impact, Nemours Children’s Health

Impact Award

Katie Kutler

Owner, kaffé KARMA

Founder, The SPREAD GOOD KARMA Foundation

Founder, The Brandywine Park Farmers Market

Owner, KARMA’s korner

Young Woman Professional Award

Jacqueline Flowers

Project Estimator, EDiS Company

State Service Award

Lisa A. Schmidt

Director and Immediate Past President, Richards, Layton & Finger, P.A.

Student Leadership Award

Billi Roman

Freshman Forward, University of Delaware & University of Delaware Ice Hockey Team

“The event and speakers were amazing, such a wonderful space to be in…”

Alexis Harris, First State Destinations

ATTEND

Registration is Closed

Rates

All Day Ticket

$175 Member
$300 Non-Member

Lunch Only Ticket

$125 Member
$200 Non-Member

ExhibiT

Included

All exhibitor tables include two tickets to the luncheon. Tables that require electricity incur an additional $100 fee.

Registration is Closed

Rates

Standard Location

$375 Member
$550 Non-Member

ADVERTISE

Digital Program Book

Event program is shared with over 500 attendees and include all important and relevant conference information.

Registration is Closed

Rates

Full Page Ad

$750

Half Page Ad

$500

Become a Sponsor

Opportunities for sponsors of all sizes.

Presenting

$10,000

Standard:

Tickets: 24 All-Day WLC Tickets *Includes three (3) reserved tables of eight (8) during the Awards and Keynote Luncheon.

Recognition: Featured as the sole Presenting Sponsor.

Advertisement: Full Page Program Ad in digital program book shared with 500+ attendees.

Exhibitor Table: 8′ Vendor Table in a prominent location.

Exclusive Presenting Sponsor Benefits:

Presenting Status: “Presented by” Credit on all pre-event promotions and on-site promotions.

Promotional Video: Opportunity to provide a 3-minute promotional video to be played during the Awards and Keynote Luncheon.

Name Badges: Logo placement on all attendee name badges.

Pre-Event Promotion:

Email Marketing Campaigns: Logo featured in pre-event email newsletters and communications.

Social Media: Logo featured in pre-event social media posts.

Registration Website: Logo prominently displayed on registration website.

Day-Of Promotion (On-Site):

Event Signage: Logo prominently displayed on event signage.

Digital Signage: Logo prominently displayed on event digital signage.

Table Toppers: Logo featured on all table toppers in networking spaces and all tables during the Awards and Keynote Luncheon.

Event Flyer: Logo prominently featured on event flyer distributed to all attendees.

Main-Stage Screens: High-visibility logo placement during sponsor acknowledgement.

Gold

$7,500

Standard:

Tickets: 16 All-Day WLC Tickets *Includes two (2) reserved tables of eight (8) during the Awards and Keynote Luncheon.

Recognition: Promoted as a Gold Sponsor.

Advertisement: Full Page Program Ad in digital program book shared with 500+ attendees.

Exhibitor Table: 8′ Vendor Table in a prominent location.

Pre-Event Promotion:

Email Marketing Campaigns: Logo featured in pre-event email newsletters and communications.

Registration Website: Logo prominently displayed on registration website.

Day-Of Promotion (On-Site):

Event Signage: Logo prominently displayed on event signage.

Digital Signage: Logo prominently displayed on event digital signage.

Table Toppers: Logo on all table toppers in networking spaces and all tables during the Awards and Keynote Luncheon.

Event Flyer: Logo prominently featured on event flyer distributed to all attendees.

Main-Stage Screens: High-visibility logo placement during sponsor acknowledgement.

Silver

$5,000

Standard:

Tickets: 8 All-Day WLC Tickets *Includes one (1) reserved table of eight (8) during the Awards and Keynote Luncheon.

Recognition: Promoted as a Silver Sponsor.

Advertisement: Half Page Program Ad in digital program book shared with 500+ attendees.

Exhibitor Table: 8′ Vendor Table.

Pre-Event Promotion:

Email Marketing Campaigns: Logo featured in pre-event email newsletters and communications.

Registration Website: Logo displayed on registration website.

Day-Of Promotion (On-Site):

Event Signage: Logo displayed on event signage.

Digital Signage: Logo displayed on event digital signage.

Table Toppers: Logo featured on all table toppers.

Event Flyer: Logo featured on event flyer.

Main-Stage Screens: Logo placement in sponsor video.

Bronze

$3,000

Standard:

Tickets: 4 All-Day WLC Tickets.

Recognition: Promoted as a Bronze Sponsor.

Advertisement: Half Page Program Ad in digital program book shared with 500+ attendees.

Exhibitor Table: 8′ Vendor Table.

Pre-Event Promotion:

Email Marketing Campaigns: Logo placed in pre-event email newsletters and communications.

Registration Website: Logo displayed on registration website.

Day-Of Promotion (On-Site):

Event Signage: Logo displayed on event signage.

Digital Signage: Logo displayed on digital signage.

Table Toppers: Logo featured on all table toppers.

Event Flyer: Logo featured on event flyer.

Main-Stage Screens: Logo placement in sponsor video.

Workshop

$1,500

Standard:

Tickets: 1 All-Day WLC Ticket.

Recognition: Promoted as a Workshop Sponsor.

Pre-Event Promotion:

Email Marketing Campaigns: Logo placed in pre-event email newsletters and communications.

Registration Website: Logo displayed on registration website.

Day-Of Promotion (On-Site):

Event Signage: Logo displayed on event signage.

Digital Signage: Logo displayed on digital signage.

Table Toppers: Logo featured on all table toppers.

Event Flyer: Logo featured on event flyer.

Main-Stage Screens: Logo placement in sponsor video.

Sponsorship Opportunities are Closed

2024 Women’s Leadership Conference Photos

View Full 2025 Gallery Here

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the event?

The 2025 Women’s Leadership Conference is held at the Chase Center on the Riverfront.

Address: 815 Justison St., Wilmington, DE 19801

What is the parking situation?

Event parking is free in the Chase Center lots, with more than 2,400 spaces.

How do I register?

Registration for the 2025 Women’s Leadership Conference is open on our website. We offer all day tickets that include workshops, the award ceremony, and keynote address. Or we offer lunch only tickets for attendees that only want to see the lunchtime programming.

Can I sponsor this event?

The deadline to sponsor this event is November 3, 2025. Please email Danielle Murabito at murabitod@ncccc.com for details or register as a sponsor directly on our website.

What should I wear?

Dress code is business casual. You can get a feel for the dress code by viewing our event photo album linked on this page.

Who can attend?

This conference, while aimed at an audience of women, delivers a wealth of knowledge and practical strategies that are equally relevant to men. Its insights are applicable to professionals at all career levels, from recent graduates seeking to establish themselves to seasoned experts looking to advance their careers.

How can I become an exhibitor?

The deadline to exhibit at this event is November 3, 2025. Please email Danielle Murabito at murabitod@ncccc.com for details or register as an exhibitor directly on our website.

What comes with my exhibitor booth?

Exhibitors receive an 8′ vendor table with two chairs and a black tablecloth and two tickets to the luncheon.

If you need electricity you must arrange this no later than November 13, 2025 by contacting murabitod@ncccc.com. Tables that require electricity incur an additional $100 fee.

What are the exhibitor arrival and parking instructions for the Chase Center?

Exhibitors can arrive at the Chase Center at 7:30 a.m. on November 20, 2025 and unload in the back of the building. After setting up your table, remember to go to the registration desk in the lobby and pick up your name tags. 

All exhibitors are to load in and load out of the side of building by Security Door #5 and are to park in the main parking lot across the street for the rest of the event. Exhibitors cannot park in the small side parking lot by security or they will be towed.

Once you register as an exhibitor you will be sent further details as well as the Chase Center floorplan and exhibitor guidelines.

What do I need to know about my program advertisement?

The deadline for ad submissions is November 7, 2025. Please send high-resolution PNG or JPEG to murabitod@ncccc.com.

Ad Specs:

Full Page (5” w x 8” h)*

Half Page (5” w x 4” h)*

*Do not include crop marks or bleeds.

Who do I contact with questions?

Please contact Danielle Murabito, Director of Events and Marketing, at murabitod@ncccc.com with questions about the event.