Leadership Symposium
Join us for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration at the 2026 Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase! Explore the transformative programs WFGM supports at the Grants Showcase, featuring our 36 Grantee and Community Partners advancing the economic and social mobility of women and families in Memphis.
Then, connect and grow at the Leadership Symposium, a dynamic half-day conference designed to educate, empower, and amplify the impact of women in the workplace and beyond.
Registration, Continental Breakfast and Grants Showcase | 8:30 – 10 a.m.
SESSION ONE | 10:00 – 10:45 a.m.
Vision: Shaping Memphis' Next Chapter
Explore how bold leaders are shaping the future of Memphis through strategy, foresight, and purpose-driven leadership. This discussion highlights how vision strengthens communities, sparks investment, and expands pathways to greater opportunity..
Panelists (pictured left to right)
Roshun Austin, President/CEO, The Works, Inc.
Carissa Hussong, Executive Director, The Metal Museum
Lisa Lisson, President of Air Operations, FedEx
Moderator | Rachel Knox, Senior Program Officer for Arts and Culture, Hyde Family Foundation
Grants Showcase | 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.
SESSION TWO | 11:15 a.m. – Noon
Collaboration: The Power of Partnership
Discover how partnerships move communities forward. This conversation highlights how women leaders collaborate across sectors to align resources, strengthen neighborhoods, and ensure investments reach the people who need them most.
Panelists (pictured left to right)
Sondra Howell, SVP of Workforce Development, Greater Memphis Chamber
Sarah Lockridge-Steckel, Co-Founder and CEO, The Collective Blueprint
Tate Wilson, CEO, Kemmons Wilson Family Foundation
Moderator | Anna McQuiston, Executive Director, MidSouth Development District
Grants Showcase | Noon – 12:30 p.m.
SESSION THREE | 12:30 – 1:15 p.m.
Impact: Turning Vision into Results
Measure what matters. This conversation explores how leaders measure progress, steward investments, and ensure resources create meaningful outcomes for communities across Memphis.
Panelists (pictured left to right)
Cynthia Bradford, System Community Involvement Manager, Baptist Memorial Health Care
Penelope Huston, Chief Communications Officer, The City of Memphis
Sylvia Martinez, CEO, Girls Inc. of Memphis
Moderator | Kandace Stewart, Vice President, Business Operations & Head of External Affairs, Memphis Grizzlies, WFGM Board of Directors