The next Women in Leadership conference is shifting the paradigm from constant hustle to mastering momentum. The 15th annual conference brings together world-class neuroscientists and executive leaders to explore how the “power in the pause” can prevent burnout and unlock peak professional performance.
Oklahoma City University’s Meinders School of Business and the Chickasaw Nation will host more than 400 professionals at its day-long Women in Leadership Conference on March 25 at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Registration and more information are available at .
The conference has served as a catalyst for professional growth and connection in the region. Departing from the traditional narrative of constant acceleration, the 2026 conference focuses on mastering momentum. The agenda is designed as a journey from the internal “self” to the outward “others,” teaching leaders that the most effective influence comes not from being the busiest, but from being the most grounded.
“We have spent a decade and a half pushing forward and climbing higher,” said Melissa Cory, co-founder and director of the conference. “As we reach this milestone, we recognize that sustainable success isn’t about a frantic, breathless pace. This year is about recalibration, learning how to lead from a calm state to create the deepest organizational impact.”
The conference will feature two keynote speakers to guide attendees through the science and practice of intentional leadership:
- Opening keynote: Sara Mednick – A cognitive neuroscientist at the University of California, Irvine and author of “The Hidden Power of the Downstate,” Mednick will present “The Science of the Downstate,” exploring how rest habits, sleep and restorative cycles can transform cognitive performance and long-term brain health.
- Closing keynote: Lauree Dash – A certified meditation teacher and mindfulness expert, Dash will lead an experiential session titled “Mindfulness: Leading and Living with Greater Awareness and Intention,” providing practical tools to regulate the nervous system and strengthen emotional intelligence.
The event will feature a curated blend of scientific research, practical workshops and executive networking, including these presentations:
- “Best Self or Stressed Self”: A deep dive into energy management and the “70:30 Principle” led by Jessica Rimmer, Ph.D., and Marian Redwine, Ed.D.
- “The Foundation of Trust”: A roadmap for building and repairing trust using the Stephen Covey framework, presented by Linda McKown.
- “The Rhythm of Detection”: Dr. Karen Nern will share insights on monitoring organizational and community health.
- Executive panel: “Resonating in the Noise” featuring leaders from Lopez Dorada, Community Literacy Center, Inc., and OG&E on leveraging AI and “power pauses” to protect a team’s calm focus, drive productivity and execute complex strategies.
- Mindful experiences: A sound bath performance by Anna Farha Miller—an exercise in cognitive reset and nervous system regulation for high-stress environments.
Registration includes a continental breakfast, coffee bar, lunch and a closing reception with photo opportunities and meet-and-greets with the speakers.
The Women in Leadership Conference welcomes registrants, vendors and sponsors regardless of sex, gender or identity. For more information or to view the full agenda, please visit .
