It's been a full year since I last wrote about the NSLS Leadership Summit, and coming back for the 2024 summit felt like a personal milestone. This past year has deepened my commitment to self-improvement and leadership, and the NSLS has been at the heart of that journey. Since joining in 2022, I've found a true sense of community and purpose in this network of leaders who, like me, are dedicated to making an impact.
The 2024 NSLS Leadership Summit: Navigating New Horizons was held virtually over two inspiring days on November 9-10 and surpassed my expectations, offering fresh perspectives that further fueled my growth. This year’s event brought together a dynamic mix of keynote speakers, hands-on workshops, and connections with like-minded leaders from all backgrounds.
As I dive into the highlights and invaluable takeaways from both days, I hope this recap not only resonates with fellow NSLS members but also provides future attendees a taste of the transformative experience that awaits.
Key Takeaways
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Expert Insights: Esteemed keynote speakers, authors, and panelists shared their leadership experiences, discussing resilience, innovation, and the importance of mission-driven leadership.
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Meaningful Connections: Breakout sessions fostered engaging discussions and invaluable connections with members, chapter leaders, and professionals across fields, providing a foundation for ongoing mentorship and support.
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Celebrating Achievements: The Summit honored the accomplishments of members and offered attendees chances to win scholarships and exclusive event prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the gathering.
Day One Sessions
Day one of the Leadership Summit was packed with engaging speakers and inspiring content designed to help attendees navigate their personal and professional development. Here's a recap of the day's sessions:
Day One Opening Remarks
Tom Krieglestein, Summit Host, Founder of SwiftKick, started the Leadership Summit with an energetic introduction, sharing his remarkable journey from a high school student with a “C” GPA to a college valedictorian and successful entrepreneur. After turning his academics around, Tom founded a business that grew to $1.5 million in annual sales. He has since trained nearly one million people worldwide, including employees at Coca-Cola, Apple, and Nike, and authored two Amazon best-selling books. Tom encouraged participants to stay engaged throughout the summit and take full advantage of the opportunities for growth. He also shared exciting details about how attendees could win prizes during the event.
Keynote Speaker: Dr. Lorraine Besser, Philosopher & Author
Dr. Lorraine Besser, a renowned philosopher and professor at Middlebury College, shared insights from her new book The Art of the Interesting. Dr. Besser explored how adopting an "interesting" mindset can enhance our lives and leadership potential. Key takeaways included:
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Developing an “interesting” mindset
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Harnessing the power of novelty
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Transforming obstacles into adventures
Dr. Besser’s session was interactive, with attendees submitting their questions on how to navigate challenges and embrace a fulfilling, meaningful life. Her work on psychological richness was highlighted, showing how incorporating variety and complexity into our lives leads to deeper satisfaction.
Building a Fulfilled Life: The Five Pillars of Success - Bernie Borges
Bernie Borges, host of The Midlife Fulfilled Podcast and fulfillment architect at Thrive Media, explored the Five Pillars of Success: health, fitness, career, relationships, and legacy. He provided actionable strategies for living a purpose-driven life, focusing on holistic well-being:
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Physical and mental health strategies
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Strengthening meaningful relationships
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Aligning career with personal passions
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Prioritizing fitness as foundational to confidence
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Reflecting on the legacy one wants to create
Accelerating Beyond Productivity Barriers - Matt Gier
Matt Gier, Assistant Professor at Lewis University, tackled productivity challenges faced by high-performing individuals. He introduced tools and strategies for breaking through barriers to productivity:
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Managing energy for sustained productivity
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Leveraging digital tools to streamline workflows
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Building flexible systems that evolve with changing demands
Taking Your Leadership Around the World: Becoming a Global Ambassador - Joshua Canter
Joshua Canter, founder of True Nature Travels, discussed how to become a Global Ambassador by embodying principles of service, mindfulness, community, and global citizenship. He inspired attendees to lead with purpose and make a positive impact on a global scale.
Emotion Matters: Cultivating EQ for Enhanced Relationships - Abigail Karl
Abigail Karl, Instructor at Liberty University, emphasized the importance of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in leadership. She provided practical insights on managing stress, motivation, and interpersonal relationships to foster meaningful connections:
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Core components of Emotional Intelligence
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Techniques for managing stress and building relationships
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The role of EQ in creating lifelong friendships and career opportunities
Motivational Mondays Live Recording (Western Governors University) - Corey Andrew Powell & Janice Robinson
Corey Andrew Powell, host of NSLS's Motivational Mondays podcast, welcomed singer and songwriter Janice Robinson to share her journey from humble beginnings to international stardom. Janice’s story of resilience, creativity, and perseverance served as a powerful reminder of the importance of staying motivated in the pursuit of one's dreams.
Day One Closing Session
Tom Krieglestein closed the day with a high-energy session, reflecting on his personal journey from a "C" student to a successful entrepreneur and speaker. His unique story and humor rounded out the day's sessions, reinforcing the power of perseverance and strategic action.
Day One was packed with practical insights and motivation, setting the stage for a transformative experience at the Leadership Summit.
Day Two SESSIONS
Day Two of the Leadership Summit continued the momentum with even more engaging speakers and valuable insights to help attendees elevate their leadership capabilities. Building on the foundation laid on Day One, Day Two was packed with transformative sessions, hands-on workshops, and inspiring stories from leaders across various fields. Participants had the opportunity to dive deeper into topics such as emotional intelligence, global leadership, and productivity breakthroughs. Here's a recap of the day's sessions:
Day Two Opening Remarks
Tom Krieglestein took to the stage again to kick off Day Two with his trademark energy, encouraging attendees to dive fully into the day’s experiences and continue building connections.
Guest Introduction: Tierney Wade, NSLS President and Chief Operating Officer
Tierney Wade, with her extensive background in operational strategy and educational support, shared an inspiring message about the NSLS’s mission to develop leaders committed to making a positive impact. In her role at NSLS, Tierney plays a pivotal part in bridging strategic vision with operational efficiency, ensuring the organization’s leadership programs reach students at over 700 universities nationwide. Her insights emphasized the importance of creating supportive educational frameworks that empower students to become leaders, prepared to face challenges and drive change. Tierney’s address set the stage for the day’s theme of enhancing leadership and communication.
Day Two Opening Session with Michael Chad Hoeppner
Guest Speaker: Michael Chad Hoeppner, Founder & CEO of GK Training, Communications Consultant
Michael led an impactful session on mastering the art of communication, focusing on how to speak confidently and clearly in any environment. Drawing on his expertise in training professionals across diverse industries, he offered practical strategies to help attendees become more effective speakers.
Key Takeaways:
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Techniques to minimize filler words (like “um”) and enhance confidence during presentations.
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The critical role of clear communication in career success and leadership.
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Actionable strategies for creating memorable, impactful speeches and presentations.
Michael’s advice, grounded in his nearly 20 years of experience with top global firms, empowered attendees to refine their speaking skills and project a stronger, more confident presence.
Navigating AI in the Classroom and Beyond: Ethics and Responsibility - Dr. Sheila Boysen-Rotelli, Executive Leadership Coach and Tenured Professor
Dr. Boysen-Rotelli shared her expertise on the ethical implications of AI in both education and business settings.
Key Takeaways:
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The ways in which AI is transforming various industries, including the education and business sectors.
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The importance of ethical considerations when integrating AI into professional practices.
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How AI impacts leadership and personal development.
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Dr. Boysen-Rotelli also explored how AI tools can help leaders become more effective while remaining mindful of potential biases and misuses.
Charting New Routes to Better Habits - Sydney Petree, Project Management Professional (PMP) & Disciplined Agile Senior Scrum Master (DASSM™)
Sydney introduced strategies for building positive habits and overcoming negative ones, providing tools for long-term success.
Key Takeaways:
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How habit formation can shape success and productivity.
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The importance of self-awareness in identifying and breaking negative habits.
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Techniques such as habit stacking and linking new habits to existing routines.
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Strategies for creating sustainable habits that support both personal and professional growth.
Increasing Productivity: How to Remove Digital Distractions and Get More Done - Dr. Rodger Adair, Professor, Graduate School of Business, Western Governors University
Dr. Adair shared effective ways to combat digital distractions and boost productivity in both academic and professional environments.
Key Takeaways:
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How digital distractions undermine productivity and how to avoid them.
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The concept of Deep Work: dedicating time to uninterrupted, high-focus tasks to increase efficiency.
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Tips for managing digital tools and creating focused time blocks to improve work output.
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Practical strategies for building systems that help maintain focus and productivity.
The Virtual World: 5 Tools for Success (Western Governors University) - Debbie Fowler, Senior Vice President of Academic Delivery, Western Governors University
Debbie explored essential tools for thriving in virtual environments and shared tips on maintaining professionalism in remote workspaces.
Key Takeaways:
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Best practices for virtual communication using platforms like Zoom, Slack, and others.
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Building an online professional presence and maintaining digital etiquette.
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How to stay engaged and productive in virtual teams.
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The importance of digital leadership in maintaining strong relationships and collaboration in virtual environments.
Go Lead Yourself! A Leadership Panel with Kevin Daum and Van M. Van
Both speakers emphasized the importance of leading oneself first before leading others.
Key Takeaways:
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Key leadership traits such as resilience, adaptability, and vision.
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How to develop leadership habits that are foundational for long-term success.
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Insights on overcoming personal and professional challenges to grow as a leader.
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Real-life examples of how self-leadership can translate to effective leadership of others.
Day Two was packed with insightful sessions that empowered attendees to enhance their communication, leadership skills, and personal productivity. The wealth of knowledge shared by speakers, combined with actionable takeaways, provided participants with the tools and mindset to continue their leadership journey both at work and in their communities.
The Benefits of Attending Global Conferences
Attending global conferences, particularly those hosted by prestigious organizations like the NSLS, offers a wealth of benefits that can significantly enhance personal, professional, and academic growth. From networking opportunities to hands-on learning, here's why participating in such events is invaluable:
Networking Opportunities
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Connecting with a Diverse Group of Professionals: At global conferences, you have the opportunity to connect with people from different industries, backgrounds, and regions. For example, during my time at the NSLS Summit, I was able to network with over 100 NSLS members from across the nation, representing a wide variety of institutions. This allowed me to broaden my professional circle and create meaningful, long-lasting connections with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and values.
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Building Relationships with Industry Leaders: Global conferences attract prominent figures in leadership, business, and education. You can engage with these leaders, learn from their experiences, and gain insights into the latest trends and best practices in your field.
Personal and Professional Development
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Learning from Expert Speakers: One of the most significant advantages of attending global conferences is the chance to hear from industry experts and thought leaders. These speakers provide valuable insights and share their expertise on topics ranging from leadership strategies to personal growth. By attending the NSLS Leadership Summit, I gained fresh perspectives on leadership and career advancement that I can apply to my personal and professional journey.
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Expanding Knowledge and Skills: Whether through keynote presentations, workshops, or panel discussions, global conferences offer a wealth of learning opportunities that help you stay ahead of the curve in your career. Topics often include leadership, innovation, communication, and more.
Scholarship and Funding Opportunities
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Access to Scholarships and Grants: Many global conferences, including those hosted by the NSLS, offer scholarship opportunities to attend or fund specific initiatives. During the NSLS Summit, I was honored to be a scholarship recipient on Day One of the event. This experience not only alleviated financial burdens but also motivated me to continue pursuing leadership excellence with the support of the NSLS community.
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Investing in Your Future: Scholarships are a valuable resource that can help you invest in your future by providing financial support for further education, certifications, or personal development programs.
Collaboration and Idea Sharing
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Collaborating with Like-Minded Individuals: Global conferences foster an environment where you can collaborate with others who share similar passions and goals. This exchange of ideas and perspectives can lead to new projects, partnerships, and creative collaborations that wouldn’t have been possible without face-to-face interaction at such events.
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Creating Impactful Connections: Throughout my NSLS membership, I've had the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with members from various institutions. These connections often evolve into valuable partnerships, mentorships, or collaborations that can influence the trajectory of both my personal and professional growth.
Expanding Your Leadership Abilities
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Engaging in Leadership Discussions and Activities: Global conferences often feature workshops, panels, and discussions focused on enhancing leadership skills. By participating in such events, attendees are encouraged to engage in self-reflection, explore new leadership techniques, and challenge their thinking about what it takes to be an effective leader.
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Enhancing Your Leadership Journey: By attending the NSLS Leadership Summit, I was able to not only hear from inspiring leaders but also apply key takeaways to my own leadership journey. The connections, insights, and skills I gained through the event have shaped me into a more confident and impactful leader.
Gaining New Perspectives
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Exposure to Global Trends and Innovations: Global conferences provide exposure to the latest industry trends, research, and technological advancements. This helps you stay informed about changes in your field and adapt to new challenges effectively.
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Personal Growth and Reflection: These conferences often encourage self-discovery and provide a space for introspection. By participating in various sessions, I gained a deeper understanding of my leadership philosophy and learned ways to refine my approach to both my career and personal life.
Creating Lasting Memories
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A Unique and Engaging Experience: Attending a global conference like NSLS is not only about learning and networking but also about creating memories that last a lifetime. The interactions, friendships, and experiences you share with others make these events truly unforgettable.
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Participating with Others: What made my NSLS experience even more special was attending and participating with fellow members. Being part of this vibrant community enhanced the entire event, and I walked away with a sense of accomplishment and camaraderie.
Overall, attending global conferences like the NSLS Leadership Summit provides a holistic growth experience that encompasses professional development, networking, and personal growth. It is an invaluable opportunity to connect with a diverse group of individuals, enhance your leadership capabilities, and gain a deeper understanding of the world around you. I’m incredibly glad I participated and look forward to continuing to build on the connections and knowledge I gained through my involvement.
NSLS Leadership Summit Attendees Quotes
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"So, if somebody is planning to attend the NSLS Summit, I definitely say do not hesitate in coming in. Your life, your experience, your perspective is going to change completely in a positive way..." - Desteny E., Chapter Advisor.
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"The Summit experience was truly incredible. It left me in awe. I can only describe it as inspirational and highly informative. There was a wealth of information, tips, and recommendations on leadership. The positive vibe was palpable – from the energy in the room to the setting and the fantastic individuals who joined the Summit. It was simply awesome, truly phenomenal." - Sonya S., Chapter Advisor.
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"The Leadership Summit was amazing. I made so many new friends and so many new connections. I won a scholarship, so I'm extremely excited about that." - John K., Chapter President.
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"I’m happy I was able to attend virtually, while attending classes full-time.” - William K.
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“I really enjoyed this event and the motivation from all the speakers were overflowing with energy. I loved it!” - Hannah K.
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“This was a great and inspiring way to learn how to network, be inspired, be creative, and believe in yourself.” - Erica Y.
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“I absolutely loved this summit. All the speakers and all the sessions left me inspired and refreshed. It gives me hope that I have a chance to be something and be someone as long as I just keep putting one foot forward.” - Adaeze E.
In Conclusion
The 2024 NSLS Leadership Summit, Navigating New Horizons, was a transformative two-day event that provided attendees with unparalleled opportunities for growth, connection, and inspiration. The summit featured an impressive lineup of keynote speakers, engaging workshops, and thought-provoking discussions that empowered participants to expand their leadership potential and embrace new challenges.
Day One: Foundations for Growth
Day One set a strong foundation for the summit, kicking off with high-energy opening remarks that ignited excitement and set the tone for the days ahead. Keynote speakers like Dr. Lorraine Besser and Bernie Borges shared invaluable insights on developing a mindset for success, balancing personal fulfillment, and enhancing productivity. Attendees were not only inspired by the stories and strategies presented but also equipped with actionable tools to implement in their personal and professional lives. The highlight of Day One was the opportunity to connect with over 100 NSLS members from across the nation, building a network of passionate, like-minded individuals ready to make an impact in their communities and careers.
Day Two: Empowering Leadership and Global Impact 🌐
Day Two continued the momentum, diving deeper into leadership topics with engaging sessions from influential leaders like Joshua Canter, Abigail Karl, and Matt Gier. The day’s focus on Emotional Intelligence, productivity breakthroughs, and global leadership opportunities provided attendees with the skills and insights needed to navigate the complexities of today’s dynamic world. The conference culminated in a powerful closing session that left attendees with a renewed sense of purpose, energy, and commitment to their leadership journeys.
The summit’s interactive nature, combined with opportunities for collaboration and learning, allowed participants to reflect on their leadership paths and how they can continue to grow and contribute meaningfully in their respective fields. For many, including myself, the experience was not only about gaining knowledge but also about being part of a supportive community dedicated to helping each other succeed.
Final Thoughts
As the Navigating New Horizons summit concluded, it was clear that this event had a lasting impact on all who attended. The connections made, the knowledge shared, and the inspiration sparked will continue to resonate far beyond the event itself. The NSLS community, with its commitment to excellence and leadership development, has once again demonstrated its ability to bring together individuals from all walks of life to learn, grow, and inspire one another.
Attending the 2024 NSLS Leadership Summit was a pivotal experience that I am grateful for. The connections I made, the lessons I learned, and the scholarship I received will serve as a foundation for my continued leadership development and efforts to make a positive impact in the world. I look forward to applying the insights gained and staying engaged with the incredible NSLS community as we all navigate the new horizons of leadership and success.
(The views expressed by individual speakers do not necessarily reflect the beliefs or positions of the NSLS.)
