THEME: The Emotionally Intelligent Manager — Thriving Under Pressure
Join us for a transformative, full-day experience focused on developing EI skills that elevate personal effectiveness, leadership capacity, and workplace culture.
(*Registration begins at 8 AM, conference starts at 9 AM)
Agenda
| 8:00 – 9:00 | Registration and Networking |
| 9:00 – 9:30 |
Welcome and Opening Remarks Guest Speaker: Jay Bailey |
| 9:30 – 10:30 | Session 1: Self-Awareness | Understanding Your Emotional Blueprint |
| 10:30 – 10:45 | Break and Networking |
| 10:45 – 12:00 | Session 2: Self-Management | Responding with Intention |
| 12:00 – 12:45 | Lunch and Fireside Chat with Dr. Turner Guest Speaker: Rodney Bullard |
| 12:45 – 2:00 | Session 3: Social Awareness | Seeing Through Others’ Eyes |
| 2:00 – 2:15 | Break and Networking |
| 2:15 – 3:30 | Session 4: Relationship Management | Building Trust and Influence |
| 3:30 – 4:00 |
Closing Reflection and Action Plan Guest Speaker: Nancy Lewis |
Why This Symposium Matters
Emotional Intelligence is a critical skill for modem employees. In an
increasingly digitized and distributed world, the ability to understand oneself, connect with others, foster relationships, and collaborate will be what sets one person apart from another. The great news is that emotional intelligence isn’t something that you are either “born with or not.” It is something that can be developed, or cultivated, over time and with intention.
This symposium is an opportunity to dive deep into the mindsets and behaviors related to emotional intelligence. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn more about the four key areas of emotional intelligence, identify opportunities for person and professional growth, explore practical strategies to increase their emotional intelligence skills, and engage in conversations with others committed to their own development.
Session Descriptions:
Session 1: Self | Understanding Your Emotional Blueprint
Self-awareness is the foundation of emotional Intelligence. Understanding your emotions, your hot buttons, and your patterns is the first step to being able to respond to situations, rather than react. By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Describe the four key areas of emotional intelligence
- Explain how self-awareness influences behavior and performance
- Identify strategies to increase your self-awareness
Session 2: Self-Management | Responding with Intention
Regulating behavior and responding thoughtfully under pressure is needed in many situations, both professional and personally. By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Summarize the connections between understanding emotions and how they drive behavior
- Practice techniques for managing stress and emotional reactions
Session 3: Social Awareness |Seeing Through Others’ Eyes
Social Awareness allows you to read the room, understand others’
perspectives, and apply empathy to different situations. By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Read social cues
- Better understand perspectives
- Adapt communication with empathy
Session 4: Relationship Management | Building Trust and Influence
Relationship Management pulls together the other three emotional
intelligence skills. It requires us to filter through our emotions and reactions. By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Strengthen communication
- Reduce conflict
- Create positive, influential relationships
2026 Symposium Presenters & Speakers
Dr. Wendi Jenkins
Traci Stromie
Jay Bailey
Rodney Bullard
Dr. Nancy J. Lewis
Attendees can expect to engage with thought leaders on a variety of impactful themes, including:
What You'll Gain:
Expert Insights
Engage with thought leaders and industry experts on the latest trends and strategies in emotional intelligence.
Networking Opportunities
Connect with professionals across various sectors, including business, education, healthcare, and public service.
Practical Skills
Participate in hands-on sessions designed to equip you with actionable tools to improve workplace dynamics and community interactions.
Continued Learning
Enjoy access to diverse sessions that cater to various interests, all aimed at enhancing your understanding and application of emotional intelligence.
Digital Badge & Certificate of Completion
Earn a digital badge, a symbol of learning, self-improvement, and your commitment to growth. Include this in your social profiles and resume!