Description

Don’t miss the Inaugural Professional Women’s Leadership Forum & ATHENA Kick-Off on May 8th, 2025, presented by the Greater Phoenix Chamber. A dynamic half-day professional development summit, the Forum is designed to empower and inspire women in the workplace. This event will feature impactful keynote speakers and interactive workshops tailored to enhance skills, build connections, and drive career advancement.
 
The Professional Women’s Leadership Forum will also launch the 2025 ATHENA Awards program. Be among the first to learn how to nominate the ATHENA in your life for the Valley’s most coveted award, what to expect from the ATHENA Awards process, and how to make your ATHENA nominee’s application shine.
 
Whether you are an experienced leader or an up-and-coming professional, the Forum will help you form meaningful new connections and leave you inspired!

Keynote Presenters: 
Ellen Poole, Author, "NETWORK" is Not a Verb 
Doris Savron, Vice Provost, Colleges, Assessment and Curriculum, University of Phoenix

Breakout Sessions

Track 1:
Session A: Generations at Work: Strategies for a More Connected Workplace
Presented by Holly Bowers, Director of Learning & Development, Willmeng
In today’s workplace, five generations are working side by side—each with unique experiences, values, and expectations. Understanding these differences can help foster stronger collaboration, communication, and leadership.
 
Session B: Financial Planning Workshop for Women
Presented by: Carolyn Briestensky, VP Mortgage Banker
Sponsored by: BOK Financial

Track 2:
Session A: Checking Your Ego at the Door: the Power of Shared Leadership
Presented by: Christina Spicer, Co-CEO Girl Scouts Arizona Cactus-Pine & Mary Mitchell, Co-CEO, Girl Scouts Arizona Cactus-Pine
 
Great leadership isn’t about holding power—it’s about sharing it. In this engaging and insightful session, we’ll explore how leaders at all levels can embrace a more collaborative approach, distribute responsibility effectively, and foster dynamic, high-performing teams.

Drawing from real-world examples, including the innovative Co-CEO model, this discussion will highlight key strategies for building trust, empowering others, and breaking down traditional hierarchies to create more inclusive and resilient organizations. Whether you’re a seasoned executive, a mid-level manager, or an emerging leader, you’ll walk away with practical tools to enhance collaboration, drive innovation, and lead with impact—no matter your title or industry.
 
Session B: Balancing Act: Navigating Childcare Solutions for Women in the Workplace
Facilitator: Jacki Grainger, First Things First
Women are an integral part of the workforce, but early child care challenges can prevent a return to work. Understanding how to navigate child care and family-friendly conversations in the workplace is crucial to begin implementing solutions across businesses of all size.

More to be announced!

Increase your company exposure at the Professional Women’s Forum by participating as a sponsor. Sponsors will be invited to attend the event, host an exhibitor booth, and receive various recognition benefits prior to and at the event.
 
Interested in sponsorship? View our sponsorship opportunities or contact sponsorship@phoenixchamber.com!