Join us for a day of learning, connection, and inspiration at the 2025 Leadership Symposium and Grants Showcase! Explore the transformative programs WFGM supports at the Grants Showcase, featuring our 38 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.

The Power of Philanthropy
Discover the transformative impact of giving and how women’s philanthropy is shaping stronger communities. This session featuring WFGM Board of Trustee members will explore the power of generosity, the ripple effect of collective giving, and how you can align your passions with purpose to make a difference.

Panelists 
Rosie Phillips Davis, Professor of Counseling Psychology, University of Memphis
Becky Jones West, President and CEO, WestRogers Communications
Anita Vaughn, Retired CEO, Baptist Women and Children’s Hospital

Moderator | Cassandra Webster, Executive Director, Memphis Challenge

Grants Showcase | 10:45 – 11:15 a.m.

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SESSION TWO | 11:15 a.m. – Noon

The Power of Leadership
Leadership isn’t just about titles—it’s about influence, vision, and action. This conversation will explore how emerging and established leaders are shaping the future of Memphis through innovation, inclusivity, and bold decision-making.

Panelists (pictured left to right)
Kayla Rodriguez Graff, Co-founder and CEO, Sweetbio
Ruby Hancock, Managing Partner, KPMG
Bridget Sisney, Director of Leadership Programs, New Memphis

Moderator | Allison Bosse, CEO, Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women

Grants Showcase | Noon – 12:30 p.m.

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SESSION THREE | 12:30 – 1:15 p.m.

The Power of Collaboration
Collaboration is the key to building stronger communities. Hear from WFGM’s Grantee Partners about how partnerships between nonprofits, businesses, and community leaders are creating opportunities and strengthening Memphis from the ground up.

Panelists
Stephanie Ivey, Ph.D., Director, Southeast Transportation Workforce Center Professor, Department of Civil Engineering, University of Memphis
Ephie Ballard Johnson, President and CEO, Neighborhood Christian Center
Katie Smythe, Chief Strategy Officer, New Ballet Ensemble & School

Moderator | Beverly Cross, Ph.D., Lillian Moss Chair of Excellence in Urban Education in the College of Education at the University of Memphis

  Learn more on the event flyer, here.