8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Registration


9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | YOU Are the Alchemist: The Transformative Power of Authentic Leadership

This frank and transparent keynote will explore the challenges we all face in the day-to-day of being ourselves at work, and the delicate balance of showing up and leading authentically - without "authenticating" ourselves out of a job. We will acknowledge some of the layered and intersectional differences in the workforce that can make "being your authentic self at work" harder for some than it is for others. Finally, we will tackle the responsibility leaders have to be a real human being - and the incredible power they have to make those they lead feel safe, seen, understood and included.

Nina Blackshear, Founder - Nina Blackshear Coaching + Consulting

11:15 AM - 11:45 AM | Morning Networking Break



  Lunch Roundtable Discussions | 12:45 PM - 2:15 PM




3:30 PM - 4:30 PM | Lawyers as Leaders: Becoming an Effective Legal Leader

Are you ready to transcend from legal expert to influential leader? Join us for an immersive presentation and discussion designed to equip you with the essential skills needed to thrive in today's dynamic legal landscape.  Led by Andrew Gratz, Founder of the University of Houston Law Center’s Initiative on Lawyers as Leaders and creator of Lawyers as Leaders, a course dedicated to providing critical leadership skills and training to lawyers serving in the public and private sector, this session is tailored to empower you to navigate the complexities of your leadership role with confidence and authority. Through a thought provoking presentation, followed by a conversation with Heather Nevitt, Editor in Chief, Corporate Coverage - ALM, we’ll examine how lawyers can become and remain effective and valued leaders of their organizations.  Whether you're a seasoned general counsel or a rising star in your legal department, this keynote address will provide you with the tools and insights you need to elevate your leadership skills and make a lasting impact. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock your full potential as a legal leader!

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Heather Nevitt, Editor-in-Chief, Corporate Coverage, ALM - ALM
Andrew Gratz, Founder--Initiative on Lawyers as Leaders - LyondellBasell

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM | Networking Reception


8:00 AM - 9:00 AM | Registration


9:00 AM - 10:00 AM | Building Communities and Leading with Vision

Stephanie Culpepper will share her unique perspective on leadership, mentorship, and community service as an in-house counsel. Drawing from her experience being sponsored by a senior leader who helped advance her career, she will discuss the importance of mentorship and sponsorship in developing future leaders. She will also explore how she balances her busy work responsibilities with a strong commitment to giving back, including her involvement with the Women Lawyers Foundation. Stephanie's insights on building relationships, serving the business, and making a positive impact will provide valuable lessons for other in-house counsel looking to grow their influence and make a difference.

Stephanie Culpepper, General Counsel - Lument

11:15 AM - 11:45 AM | Morning Networking Break



12:45 PM - 2:00 PM

Attendee Networking Lunch



4:15 PM - 5:15 PM | Closing Networking Reception

Join us for a lively closing reception sponsored by Barnes & Thornburg, where attendees can relax, network, and reflect on the day’s discussions in a more informal setting. Enjoy drinks, hors d'oeuvres, and great conversations with peers and thought leaders as we wrap up General Counsel Conference Southwest. It's the perfect way to end the event with new connections and insights.