We welcome speakers from a wide range of backgrounds who can inspire growth, confidence, and action. Ideal candidates include:

• Leaders and Advocates who have driven meaningful change
• Educators and Researchers focused on motivation, confidence, or equity
• Healthcare and Wellness Professionals supporting resilience and well-being
• Authors, Influencers, and Entrepreneurs who have transformed setbacks into success
• Everyday Changemakers whose stories inspire others to persevere
• Professionals in Leadership Development, Coaching, DEI, or Personal Growth

Who Can Nominate: We invite nominations from faculty, staff, community members, organizations, healthcare professionals, advocates, and anyone who knows someone with an impactful message to share. Self-nominations are welcome.

We are particularly looking for speakers and panelists to contribute to:

• Breakout Sessions: 45-minute presentations with 15-minute Q&A
• Workshops: Interactive, hands-on sessions that guide participants through practical tools or reflections
• Panel Discussions: Moderated conversations offering multiple perspectives on growth and resilience

This year's call for speakers will close December 31st, 2025. To nominate a speaker/panelist or apply please click HERE.

Conference Registration is CURRENTLY CLOSED! Please see below for the pricing options available, as well as the link to register online. It is important to note that participation for this event is fully in-person and no virtual options will be available.

Ticket Options:

• $49: All-day access, includes continental breakfast and lunch
• $29: Limited access, drop-in anytime (no food included) - Ideal for those with limited time to attend part of the day.
• Free: Limited student tickets available

Please see below for the 2025 conference schedule outline. The 2026 schedule will be released in early spring.

• 9:00 - 9:30am: Conference Check-in, Networking & Light Breakfast (Available to All Day Registrants ONLY) 
• 9:30 - 9:55am: Welcome & Opening Remarks
  • Featured opening remarks from Mrs. Farah Houshmand
• 10:00 - 10:15am: "Wake up & Laugh" featuring speaker, comedian, Rowan alumna, and creator of One Funny Mother, Dena Blizzard
• 10:20 - 11:15am: Educational Sessions Block One
• 11:20am - 12:15pm: Educational Sessions Block Two
• 12:15 - 1:15pm: Lunch with opportunities for informal networking & vendor table visits
  
  • Lunch will also feature a presentation 12:30-12:45pm from Dr. Manuela Jimenez
• 1:15pm - 2:15pm: Educational Sessions Block Three
• 2:15 - 2:30pm: Afternoon Break
• 2:30 - 3:30pm: Closing Keynote Address
• 3:30 - 4:00pm: Conference Closing

On behalf of the Advisory Board, we would like to extend our deepest gratitude to the speakers of this year's conference! The time, dedication, and knowledge they will be sharing is both immensely appreciated, as well as invaluable to our program's success. This conference would not be possible without them.

Please check back in early Spring 2026 for this year's conferene speakers!

Interested in becoming a sponsor or tabling at our conference? We’d love to have you! Please email womensnetwork@rowan.edu for more information. Sponsorship is available at the following levels:

• Platinum Sponsor
• Gold Sponsor
• Silver Sponsor
• Bronze Sponsor

2025 Conference Featured Speakers:

• Opening Remarks Speaker, Farah Houshmand
• Featured Speaker, Dr. Layla Houshmand
• Featured Speaker, Dr. Manuela Jimenez
• Featured Speaker, Dena Blizzard
• Featured Closing Keynote, Rochelle Gapere

2025 Conference Presenters:

• Dr. Valerie James
• Patricia Mooneyham
• Lindsay Zogheb
• Dr. Adrianne Robertson
• Theresa Santucci
• Jennifer Savage
• Donna Loftus
• Dr. Donna Mueller
• Jasmine Moore
• Jessica Battle
• Queen Stewart, Esq.
• Dr. Lakeisha Carter
• Angela Speakman
• Michele Wispelwey
• Stephanie Poe-Cerdan
• Scott Woodside
• Zondra Smith
• Priscilla Loomis
• Variuos representatives from conference sponsor TD Bank
• To read more about our conference speakers, please click HERE.

Educational Sessions - Block One

• “That’s what she said…”
  • Format: Workshop
  • Facilitator: Dena Blizzard, One Funny Mother
  • Description: Practice makes perfect when it comes to speaking. In this lively and empowering session, Dena Blizzard—a sought-after speaker, host and comedian- provides us with a safe, creative space to practice speaking. This session will be the most fun you’ve ever had speaking in public. 
• How to Sustain the Best You When Facing Microaggression in the Workplace
  • Format: Breakout Session
  • Presenter: Dr. Valerie James
  • Description: Microaggression is a challenging topic to discuss, especially for victims of microaggression. Many people are unknowingly victimized regularly. This lack of awareness and being ill-equipped to address microaggression, put this topic at the forefront for necessary critical discussion. Meaningful discussion demands that the R.U.L.E.S. of microaggression be presented in a manner that is Un-SugarCoated. Participants will be able to identify 3 types of microaggression, evaluate the context of the microaggression behavior, and better understand microaggression behavior by following R.U.L.E.S ( A framework developed by UnSugarCoated LLC.)
• Thriving in Every Role: Strategies for Life Balance, Mental Health and Personal Growth
  
  • Format: Panel
  • Panelists: Patricia Mooneyham, Lindsay Zogheb, Dr. Adrianne Robertson, Theresa Santucci
  • Moderator: Jennifer Savage
  • Description: Achieving balance between career ambitions, personal passions, and self-care is a journey that requires intentional focus and thoughtful strategies. This panel explores the intersection of mental wellness, self-care, and personal growth. Panelists will share insights on navigating trauma, stress, and societal expectations while maintaining balance in personal and professional roles. Attendees will gain practical strategies for fostering happiness, advocating for their mental health, and establishing a sustainable self-care routine. Topics include prioritizing mental well-being, making time for personal growth, and managing trauma recovery—key components of long-term success and fulfillment across all aspects of life.

Educational Sessions - Block Two

• Roe Was Not Enough: My Life-Saving Abortion Story, Abortion 101, and How to Take Action
  • Format: Breakout Session
  • Presenter(s): Dr. Layla Houshmand with an introduction from Mrs. Farah Houshmand
  • Description: Dr. Layla Houshmand shares her personal journey of seeking an abortion while Roe v. Wade was still in effect, shedding light on the barriers that persisted despite legal protections. Through her story, she explores the complexities of access, stigma, and the ongoing fight for reproductive rights. This session will also provide an accessible overview of abortion laws in the U.S., how they have changed post-Roe, and what individuals can do to advocate for reproductive justice. By normalizing conversations around abortion and equipping attendees with tangible ways to take action, this discussion aims to empower and inform.
• Exercise Today for a Healthier Tomorrow
  • Format: Workshop
  • Facilitator: Donna Loftus
  • Description: Your health and wellness are essential for your overall well-being. This break-out session will educate all participants on the benefits of why exercise is important to one’s health.  Participants will be actively engaged in warm- ups and then a few exercise routines utilizing different mediums including exercise balls, ribbon sticks, dancing sticks, and closing with a cool-down. Please come to have fun while impacting your health and wellness.
• Mind, Body, Spirit: Embracing Holistic Practices for Lasting Well-Being
  • Format: Panel
  • Panelists: Dr. Donna Mueller, Jasmine Moore, Queen Stewart, Esq.
  • Moderator: Dr. Lakeisha Carter
  • Description: Well-being is a multi-dimensional experience that goes beyond physical health—it’s about nurturing the mind, body, and spirit. This dynamic panel brings together four powerful voices in wellness, empowerment, and personal transformation to explore how holistic practices can foster lasting well-being. Panelists will share their diverse perspectives on overcoming life’s challenges, finding joy through adversity, and embracing holistic approaches that connect mental, physical, and emotional health. This discussion will provide attendees with actionable tools and inspiring stories to help them reclaim balance, resilience, and joy in their lives.

Lunch Ted Talk

• The Art of Balancing Act: Work and Well-Being.
  
  • Presenter: Dr. Manuela Jimenez
  • Description: In this TED Talk, Dr. Jimenez will delve into the unique challenges we encounter in our pursuit of a satisfying work-life balance. We will explore strategies to navigate these complexities, enabling us to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Attendees can expect to gain valuable insights and actionable strategies that empower them to prioritize their well-being while pursuing their professional goals. 

Educational Sessions - Block Three

• Securing Your Happiness: Navigating Financial Wellness & Fraud Prevention with TD SAFE
  • Format: Workshop
  • Facilitators: TD Bank Representatives 
  • Description: This workshop, presented by TD SAFE, explores key strategies for achieving financial wellness and protecting yourself from fraud and scams. Learn how to safeguard your financial future, recognize potential threats, and take proactive steps to secure your happiness through smart financial decisions.
• Finding Your Voice: Self-Advocacy for Health, Relationships, and Life
  • Format: Panel
  • Panelists: Angela Speakman, Stephanie Poe-Cerdan, Scott Woodside
  • Moderator: Zondra Smith
  • Description: This panel explores the vital role of self-advocacy in navigating healthcare, human services, and personal relationships. Panelists will share their expertise on effective communication, accessing resources, and overcoming obstacles in complex systems, empowering individuals to take control of their well-being and build stronger connections. Attendees will gain practical strategies for advocating for themselves and creating a life that reflects their needs, goals, and values.
• Lessons from a Professional Badass: The toolbox for the unstoppable visionary
  • Format: Breakout Session
  • Presenter: Priscilla Loomis
  • Description: In this empowering session, Olympian Priscilla Loomis shares the tools, mindset, and strategies that shaped her path to elite performance. Drawing from her experience at the pinnacle of athletic achievement, Priscilla reveals how anyone—whether in sports, business, or life—can tap into their inner strength, resilience, and leadership. Through the lens of personal well-being, self-advocacy, and a purpose-driven mindset, she explores how overcoming obstacles and building unshakable confidence contribute to both personal fulfillment and the empowerment of others. Attendees will gain practical insights into leading with purpose, prioritizing their health—both mental and physical—and embracing a relentless pursuit of excellence and happiness.

Closing Keynote

• Next Level You: The Happiness Blueprint for a Healthier, Happier Life
  
  • Presenter: Rochelle Gapere 
  • Description: Rochelle Gapere, Attorney, Happiness Coach, and Bestselling Author of One Happy Thought at a Time: 30 Days to a Happier You, brings her dynamic expertise to help you unlock the transformative power of happiness. With a blend of practical insights and inspiring stories, Rochelle will guide attendees on a journey to enhance well-being, advocate for meaningful change, and achieve personal and professional growth. This keynote promises to leave you motivated, equipped, and ready to take your life to the next level.