Morning Keynote

Location

Speakers

• Jake Akehurst - Senior Program Manager, Panasonic North America (PNA)
  Jake Akehurst is Senior Program Manager for Government and Community Affairs at Panasonic North America, where he leads initiatives that strengthen external partnerships, advance workforce development, and foster meaningful community and social impact. His work supports Panasonic Energy operations in De Soto, Kansas, and Reno, Nevada. Before joining Panasonic, Jake spent more than 20 years in higher education at Johnson County Community College and the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where he led programs focused on student leadership, community engagement, and workforce training. He holds a B.S. in Public Relations from Northwest Missouri State University and an M.S. in Counselor Education from Emporia State University. Jake is passionate about building pathways that connect education, industry, and community to create a lasting impact. He resides in Shawnee, Kansas, with his wife and two children and recently joined the ranks of K-State parents, with his son beginning his freshman year at Kansas State University.
• Natalie Zinai - Quality Systems Management Specialist, Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America (PECNA)
  Natalie Zinai is a Quality Systems Management Specialist at Panasonic Energy Corporation of North America (PECNA), where she supports the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of quality management systems aligned with IATF 16949 standards. In her role, Natalie works across cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and operational excellence at scale. Natalie is currently pursuing her goal of becoming an IATF 16949 Lead Auditor and is committed to fostering a culture of quality, continuous improvement, and knowledge sharing. She brings a collaborative and solutions-oriented mindset to her work, supporting Panasonic Energy’s mission while building sustainable and efficient systems for the future.

Breakout Session 1

Speakers

• Ashley Thomas - Owner & Founder, Dr. Ashley Thomas Coaching & Consulting, LLC
  Dr. Ashley Thomas holds a Ph.D. specializing in research on purpose in life and organizational leadership. She is a Certified Professional Coach with the International Coaching Federation (iPEC Master Practitioner in Energy Leadership Index), a Gallup Certified CliftonStrengths Coach, and one of fewer than ten Simon Sinek Certified WHY School Instructors worldwide. With 17 years of higher education advising experience and expertise in executive coaching and workforce development, Dr. Thomas brings research-backed methodology combined with practical application to her work with executive women leaders and military-connected communities.

Breakout Session 1

Speakers

• Gavin Schmidt - Moderator, Director of Procurement, BHS Construction
  Gavin Schmidt is Director of Procurement at BHS Construction, a commercial general contractor headquartered in Manhattan, Kansas. At BHS, he leads the firm's growth strategy across its core markets and is directing its expansion into the Lawrence and Kansas City markets. Prior to joining BHS, Gavin built a 15-year career in banking, including the last decade at ESB Financial in Manhattan, where he served as Market President. He is also an active real estate investor and developer. A lifelong Kansan and Kansas State University graduate, Gavin is deeply committed to his community. He serves on the board of Meadowlark Hills Retirement Community and on the Executive Committee of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce, where he is the incoming 2027 Chair.
• Gabriela Vega - Panelist, (Legal) Director of Marketing & Business Development, Addair Law
  Gabriela Vega serves as Director of Marketing and Business Development at Addair Law, where she oversees strategic growth, community engagement, and relationship development. With more than 20 years of experience in the legal profession, she has built a career centered on advocacy, leadership, and service. In her current role, Gabriela connects Addair Law's attorneys with individuals, businesses, and organizations throughout Kansas. She is passionate about building strong professional networks, fostering meaningful partnerships, and creating opportunities for growth within Addair Law and the broader community. Gabriela believes professional success is built through authentic relationships, continuous learning, and a commitment to serving others. She is proud to be part of a team dedicated to providing trusted legal guidance while investing in the communities it serves.
• Ashley Urban - Panelist (Insurance), Principal and Agent, Cura Insurance Agency
  Ashley Urban is a Kansas native who transitioned into the insurance industry in 2016. With a passion for entrepreneurship, community engagement and exceptional client service she launched her own Independent Agency, Cura Insurance, in 2020. As a Principal and Independent Agent, she builds carrier relationships, oversees agency success, and works directly with clients across Kansas and Missouri to assess their needs and match them with the right coverage. Being independent, she works with multiple carriers allowing her to shift and grow alongside her clients as their needs change. Her competitive drive and commitment to service have fueled rapid growth and deep expertise in the industry. She's looking forward to growing the agency and finding new talent to mentor.
• Chris Nobert - Panelist (Banking), Vice President of Commercial Lending, KS StateBank
  Chris graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Kinesiology in 2015. He began his career in banking in 2011 and transitioned from retail banking to commercial banking in 2016. He has served as Vice President of Commercial Lending at KS StateBank for the past four years. Throughout his career, Chris has remained actively engaged in the Manhattan community. His previous leadership roles include serving on the HYPE Steering Committee, as Treasurer for the local Habitat for Humanity board, as a Young Trustee board member and co-chair, and on the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation Executive Board of Trustees. He currently serves on the boards of Be Able and Leadership Manhattan and is involved with the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Committee and the Greater Manhattan Community Foundation Events Committee. Outside of work, Chris enjoys spending time with his wife, Caitlin, golfing, and attending as many Kansas State sporting events as possible.
• Willie Thomas II - Panelist (Financial Advisor), Financial Advisor, AMICUS Wealth Advisors
  Willie is a 10 year Army combat veteran and first generation college graduate. He earned a degree in Kinesiology from Kansas State University before building a nearly eight year career in the Financial Management department of the automotive industry. In 2023, Willie made a career change and began pursuing the path to owning his own financial advisory firm. In March 2024, he obtained all necessary licenses to practice financial advising and later became a partner at AMICUS Wealth Partners. Drawing on his military background and professional experience, Willie is passionate about helping individuals and families make informed financial decisions and build long term financial success. He brings a practical perspective on leadership, discipline, and financial planning to his work each day.

Breakout Session 1

Speakers

• Brenden Wirth - Director of Political Affairs, Engaged Kansas/Kansas Farm Bureau
  Brenden currently serves as Director of Political Affairs for Kansas Farm Bureau, where he works with the VOTEFBF Board of Directors and the Engaged Kansas Coalition to recruit and elect Kansans to local, state, and federal political offices. A graduate of Kansas State University with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Government, Brenden has spent more than 25 years with Kansas Farm Bureau. Prior to his current role, he served as District Administrator, advising 11 County Farm Bureaus in organizational management, public policy issues, leadership development, and community outreach. Brenden lives in Mankato, Kansas, where he is actively involved in his community. He has served as a USD 107 School Board Member since 2012, continuing his commitment to education and local leadership.

Breakout Session 1

Speakers

• Katie Ervin - ounder and CEO , Catalyst Development
  Dr. Katie Ervin is a leadership and workplace culture expert, bestselling author of You Might Be an Asshole… But It Might Not Be Your Fault!, and CEO of Catalyst Development. With over 20 years in human resources and organizational development, she has built a proven model for helping businesses thrive. Her doctoral research on workplace motivation led to the Catalyst Workplace Model, equipping leaders to build high-performing teams, reduce burnout, and drive success.

Breakout Session 2

Speakers

• Stephanie Pierce - Executive Director, Innovate24
  Stephanie Pierce is the Executive Director of Innovate24 and a passionate advocate for economic development and entrepreneurship. Since moving to Manhattan in 2004 to attend Kansas State University, she has been deeply involved in the local business community. Stephanie launched two small businesses before transitioning into economic development, where she supported entrepreneurs and helped grow the region’s startup ecosystem through her work at K-State Innovation Partners. Known for her collaborative spirit and strong leadership, Stephanie is dedicated to creating opportunities that help businesses start, grow, and succeed across the region.

Breakout Session 2

Speakers

• Kerry Priest - Stylist, House of Color
  Kerry Priest is a trained House of Colour stylist who helps individuals understand how color and personal style can build confidence and influence how they show up in everyday life. Through an educational and personalized approach, Kerry helps clients discover their best colors, simplify their choices, and create a style that feels authentic to who they are. As a teacher and researcher, Kerry brings an evidence-based approach to her work, helping people understand the “why” behind their results. She believes House of Colour is about more than finding your season, it is about building confidence, creating connection, and celebrating what makes each person unique. Kerry also serves as a professor and director of leadership studies at Kansas State University, where she teaches and researches leadership development. Across both roles, she is passionate about helping others gain self-awareness and confidence.

Breakout Session 2

Speakers

• Kaley Klaus - Director, Professional & Continuing Education, Fort Hays State University
  Dr. Kaley Klaus is the Director of Professional & Continuing Education at Fort Hays State University, where she leads workforce focused training, consulting, and non-credit education initiatives designed to meet industry and community needs. Her expertise includes leadership development, organizational behavior, systems thinking, organizational learning, assessment, and creating leadership development programs for organizations and professionals. Dr. Klaus has taught undergraduate and graduate leadership courses, developed professional development programs, and contributed to innovative initiatives in digital badging and alternative credentialing. She is an active member of the Association of Leadership Educators, where she has served in multiple national leadership roles, including President. She earned her EdD in Higher Education Leadership from Maryville University of Saint Louis and is a Gallup Certified CliftonStrengths Coach.

Breakout Session 2

Speakers

• Emily Dixon - Vice President, Trust Officer & Wealth Advisor, The Trust Company
  Emily Dixon, CFP®, joined The Trust Company’s Manhattan office in March 2021 and loves building meaningful, long-term relationships with the clients she serves. She graduated from Kansas State University with a degree in Personal Financial Planning and earned her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification in 2022 to provide thoughtful, comprehensive advice. Emily began her career as a financial planner, spending eight years helping individuals and families navigate important financial decisions. She later joined the KSU Foundation as a Senior Gift Planning Officer, where she worked with K-State alumni and friends to explore charitable and deferred giving opportunities aligned with their values and goals. She shares, “I love sitting down with a client, learning more about them as a person, and figuring out how I can help them accomplish their goals and dreams.” Outside of work, Emily and her husband, Adam, who serves in the Kansas Air National Guard and works as a Cybersecurity Engineer for Intrust Bank, enjoy traveling and are always looking forward to their next adventure.
• Makenzie Blakeslee - Vice President, & Director of Financial Planning, The Trust Company
  Mackenzie Blakeslee, CFP®, was the first in her family to earn a bachelor’s degree. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Family Studies and Human Services and a Master of Science in Family Financial Planning, both from Kansas State University. Mackenzie joined The Trust Company in 2019, earned her CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ designation in 2021, assumed leadership of the Financial Planning team in 2022, and became director of the team in 2023. Her prior professional experience includes handling diverse aspects of operations in the Academic Success Center within the College of Engineering at Kansas State University and overseeing hundreds of residential units as a property manager. She is passionate about helping clients feel heard and understood, sharing, “My goal is to take care of clients like I would my own family.” Mackenzie and her husband, Eric, an agronomist for an agriculture company, have two daughters and enjoy living in his hometown in central Kansas.

Lunch Keynote

Location

Speakers

• Morgan Huelsman - Content Creator, Podcast Host, & Former Radio Personality Former Digital Director, Bobby Bones Show/ iHeart Radio
  Morgan Huelsman is a digital media personality, storyteller, and content creator known for her work as the former digital director for The Bobby Bones Show, where she led the show’s digital platforms and delivered exclusive content from major events including the CMA Awards, CMA Fest, and iHeartCountry Festival. Her unique perspective and ability to connect with audiences have been showcased on Circle’s Country Countdown for two seasons on the Circle All Access Network, as well as through her role as co-host of the televised Red Bull Jukebox. Morgan’s podcast, Best Bits of The Bobby Bones Show, earned more than 60 million downloads, and she later launched her own podcast, Take This Personally, creating a space to help others feel less alone during their hardest battles. Through storytelling, advocacy, and authentic connection, Morgan continues to engage audiences and share meaningful conversations. Outside of her work, she is a passionate rescue animal advocate, enjoys exploring new places, and loves trying new foods.

Breakout Session 3

Speakers

• Emily Wehling - Owner/Designer, Stacks Jewelry
  Emily Wehling is the founder and creative force behind Stacks Jewelry, a handcrafted accessories brand based in Manhattan, Kansas. Inspired by early experience working alongside a local custom jeweler, she creates colorful, thoughtfully designed pieces that bring confidence, joy, and everyday style to her customers. Through Stacks Jewelry, Emily combines her love of creativity and design with a passion for creating pieces that feel personal, fun, and easy to wear. By day, Emily serves as a Regional Enterprise Account Director at CivicPlus, where she has spent more than a decade helping communities succeed through technology and building strong, lasting client relationships. Whether she's designing jewelry or building client relationships, Emily is passionate about creativity, quality, and creating meaningful connections. Her work reflects her belief that the best ideas come from combining creativity, purpose, and a genuine connection with others.

Breakout Session 3

Speakers

• Chance Lee - Assistant Professor, Staley School of Leadership, Kansas State University
  Chance Lee, Ph.D., CNP is an assistant professor in the Staley School of Leadership at Kansas State University, where he teaches courses on leadership, culture, and community change. As director of the Nonprofit Leadership Program, he works with students and community partners to develop leaders who can navigate complexity and make a meaningful difference in their organizations and communities. Beyond the classroom, Chance facilitates leadership development and strategic planning workshops for organizations across Kansas. He enjoys creating interactive learning experiences that encourage people to see familiar challenges from a new perspective and leave with ideas they are excited to put into practice.

Breakout Session 3

Speakers

• Joe Bellinger - Executive Vice President, Kinetic Fundraising
  Joe Bellinger brings more than 20 years of nonprofit fundraising and leadership experience, helping organizations strengthen donor relationships, grow revenue, and advance their missions. His background includes executive development leadership with arts, healthcare, human services, and community based organizations, giving him a broad perspective on the challenges nonprofits face. Joe partners with organizations to build practical, sustainable fundraising strategies and uses a strengths based approach as a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach to help nonprofit leaders and teams maximize their effectiveness. He holds a Master of Public Administration focused on nonprofit leadership, a Certificate in Fundraising from the Midwest Center for Nonprofit Leadership at the University of Missouri Kansas City, and additional training in fundraising best practices.

Breakout Session 3

Speakers

• Jake Shirk - Engagement Specialist, J29 Creative Group
  Jake Shirk holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Kansas State University and serves as a videographer and creative operations professional at J29. Operating at the intersection of creative production, project management, and team collaboration, his recent focus centers on building practical systems that reduce unnecessary meetings, streamlining communication, and helping his team stay productive without operating in a constant state of urgency.

Breakout Session 4

Speakers

• Lindsay Lowe - Owner, Platinum & Co Beauty Bar
  Lindsay Lowe is an entrepreneur, speaker, author, and business educator passionate about helping people grow in confidence, leadership, and personal transformation. She is the founder of Platinum & Company Beauty Bar and co-founder of Salon Business School, where she has helped thousands of salon owners and beauty professionals build stronger businesses and teams. Known for her empowering storytelling and transformational teaching style, Lindsay speaks on leadership, confidence, communication, visibility, and personal branding. She is the author of The Beauty Code and is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and helping people build the confidence to create opportunities and lead with purpose.

Breakout Session 4

Speakers

• Nathan Redeker - Workforce Development Coordinator, BHS Construction
  Nathan Redeker grew up on a farm near Olpe, Kansas, and learned early the value of hard work and responsibility. After graduating from Emporia State University in 2005, he moved to Manhattan and began his career with Target Corporation before joining BHS Construction in 2009. Today, Nathan serves as BHS Construction’s Workforce Development Coordinator, focusing on developing the next generation of the construction workforce and strengthening connections between education, industry, and skilled trades. Nathan has been actively involved in the community, serving with Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Boys & Girls Club, and Leadership Manhattan. He currently serves on several education and career advisory committees, helping create meaningful pathways for students to enter the workforce. Nathan enjoys spending time with his wife and their two daughters, ages 7 and 9. When he is not attending one of their activities, he can often be found around a grill, enjoying one of his favorite hobbies—BBQ.

Breakout Session 4

Speakers

• Kevin Kwok - Founder, J29 Creative Group
  Kevin Kwok is the Founder and CEO of J29 Creative Group, a marketing agency based in Leawood, Kansas. With a background in software engineering and entrepreneurship, Kevin has spent more than 25 years navigating technology, business, and leadership. He is a Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses graduate and Alumni Ambassador. Through his experiences building companies, overcoming setbacks, and adapting through major technology shifts, Kevin enjoys sharing lessons on leadership, resilience, and what it takes to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

Breakout Session 4

Speakers

• Doran Herbel - Moderator, Multi-Property Sales Specialist, WTC Fiber
  Doran Herbel is a proud Kansan with deep roots in rural communities. Growing up on a farm in southeast Kansas, she learned the importance of hard work, neighbors helping neighbors, and investing in the place you call home. She believes rural communities are the heartbeat of Kansas, built by people who choose to lead, serve, and create opportunities for the next generation. Today, Doran serves as the Multi Property Sales Specialist for WTC Fiber, supporting housing growth through connectivity in the Manhattan and Wamego region. Outside of work, she serves on community boards and committees focused on strengthening communities and developing future leaders. Through service and community involvement, Doran believes everyone has a role in creating a stronger future for Kansas.
• Tanner Faust - Panelist, City Administrator, City of Lindsborg
  Tanner Faust serves as the City Administrator for the City of Lindsborg, Kansas, where he oversees municipal operations and works collaboratively with elected officials, staff, and community stakeholders to advance local priorities and enhance quality of life for residents. Prior to joining Lindsborg, Tanner worked for the City of Lyons, Kansas, where he gained valuable experience in local government administration and community development. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Real Estate and Community Development from Kansas State University, with a minor in Regional and Community Development. As a passionate advocate for rural Kansas, Tanner is committed to helping communities create opportunities for residents, businesses, and future generations to thrive. Through his work in local government and community development, he continues to support the growth and vitality of the communities he serves.
• Jay Troxell - Panelist, Owner, Kanvas, LLC
  Jay Troxell is a United States Air Force veteran and small-business owner serving the Kansas communities of Council Grove and Wamego. Through his military service, entrepreneurship, and commitment to community involvement, Jay has developed a strong passion for supporting the people and places that make rural Kansas unique. His community leadership has included service on the USD 417 Board of Education, the Morris County Chamber of Commerce, and as a founding member and former board member of Together With Veterans and Morris County. Through his experiences in military service, business ownership, and civic leadership, Jay brings a practical perspective on building businesses, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for rural Kansas
• Julie Roller Weeks - Panelist, Director, Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau
  Julie Roller Weeks serves as Director of the Abilene Convention & Visitors Bureau, where she has spent nearly a decade helping a community of 6,500 people think bigger. By transforming local stories, historic assets, and creative ideas into visitor experiences, she has helped position Abilene as one of the most recognized historic small-town destinations in America, earning national recognition from USA TODAY, Newsweek, TravelAwaits, True West Magazine, and the Midwest Travel Network. Julie has long been inspired by the quote, “I always wondered why somebody didn’t do something about that. Then I realized I am somebody.” That philosophy has guided her career in tourism, community and economic development, nonprofit leadership, and public service. She serves as President of the Kansas I-70 Association, Past President of the Eisenhower Series of Excellence in Public Service, and Vice Chair of the Kansas Republican Party’s Big First Congressional District. Julie is passionate about helping others recognize their ability to make a difference. Her message encourages emerging leaders to get involved, build relationships, and understand that meaningful change often begins when ordinary people decide to step forward and take action.

Ending Keynote

Location

Speakers

• Chris Hupe - Owner, Spirits of '76, LLC.
  Chris has spent his career building businesses, strengthening organizations, and investing in the communities around him. His professional experience spans telecommunications, manufacturing, entrepreneurship, and business ownership. He has also served in corporate and nonprofit leadership roles, specifically focused on strategic planning, organizational development, and mentoring emerging leaders. Through each of these roles, Chris has focused on helping people and organizations grow, lead well, and make a lasting impact. He believes strong businesses, organizations, and communities are built on the same foundation: good people, clear expectations, responsible stewardship, and a commitment to something bigger than oneself.