Three days. Women leaders from across Michigan. Fresh perspectives, practical insights and connections that extend well beyond the conference.
The 2026 MI ATHENA Leadership Conference brought it all together Oct. 7-9 at Crystal Mountain Resort in northern Michigan.
Centered on the theme Empowered Leadership: Innovate, Inspire, Impact, the conference encouraged attendees to think differently, embrace new opportunities and strengthen their leadership – personally and professionally.
Inspiring keynotes | Practical takeaways
Two dynamic keynote speakers challenged attendees to lead with greater intention and impact.
- Monica Lloyd opened the conference’s second day with Own the Room: Build Your Leadership Brand with Intention and Impact, encouraging participants to take ownership of their personal brands and lead with confidence and influence.
- Shelley Davis Boyd closed the conference with Everyday Impact: Leadership Lessons Inspired by the ATHENA Principles, highlighting how everyday decisions and actions can shape a lasting leadership legacy.
Attendees also explored three customizable breakout tracks — Leadership Skills, Career and Personal Growth and Wellness and Sustainability – with sessions addressing emotional intelligence, career reinvention, resilience and mindful leadership.
A candid panel discussion, Burnout, Boundaries and Balance, featuring Meghann Keit-Corrion, Suzanne Greenberg and Daphne Epps offered practical strategies for navigating leadership demands while protecting personal wellbeing.
Beyond the sessions, activities ranging from golf and mindful breathing to networking opportunities, created opportunities to recharge, exchange ideas and build new relationships.
Recognizing leadership that makes a difference
A special highlight was the introduction of the MI ATHENA Leadership Awards, celebrating individuals and organizations advancing women’s leadership and strengthening their communities.
Congratulations to the inaugural honorees:
- Leadership Impact Award: Lake Trust Credit Union
- ATHENA Impact Award: Amanda Thompson, executive director of Helping Hands Food Pantry
These awards reflect the heart of MI ATHENA: celebrating leadership, strengthening communities and creating opportunities for others to thrive.
Thanks and the connections continue
Thank you to our attendees, speakers, sponsors and supporters for bringing their perspectives, energy and commitment to this year’s conference. Together, you’re helping build a stronger community of women leaders across Michigan.
Check out the highlights: Visit MI ATHENA on Instagram and Facebook for photos and memorable moments from the conference.
Looking ahead to 2027: Have ideas for next year’s conference or other programming? We’d love to hear them! Share your suggestons at miathena@michamber.com.