The DRC’s 25th Women’s Business Conference (WBC), presented by Jackson Walker LLP, is almost here, and for the WBC’s Silver Anniversary we want to create a SPARK!

For more than two decades, Dallas’s top professional women and business leaders have convened at WBC to turn bold ideas into action, taking the spark from one day to drive professional and personal growth throughout the entire year — and to create a stronger, more inclusive region.

This year, our program will be sparked by notable conversations with:

Deryl McKissack is president and CEO of McKissack and McKissack, one of the nation’s leading architectural and engineering firms. Hattie Hill, President and CEO of the T.D. Jakes Foundation, will join the conversation to discuss Deryl’s prolific career leading projects including the Museum of African American History and Culture, the Obama Presidential Center, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

Megha Tolia serves as President and COO of Shondaland, the pioneering storytelling company founded by Shonda Rhimes. Leading the conversation will be April Allen, President and COO of Southern Gateway Public Green Foundation, who will highlight lessons learned during Megha’s executive journey, from supporting favorite consumer product brands like Neutrogena and Method, and now as head of a multimedia giant.

Jen Hatmaker is a beloved speaker, The New York Times best-selling author, and podcaster who will share a message of hope and encouragement on how to show up better for yourself, your family, your business — and our community.

The program will also include:

      • presentation of the YPL ATHENA® Award, presented by Thomson Reuters, and ATHENA® Award, presented by Wells Fargo;
      • a vibrant marketplace presented by Frost, featuring local founders, creators, and entrepreneurs — each highlighting a unique mission or product. Enjoy exploring their wares and finding inspiration in their missions;
      • Let’s Kick Glass Together Table Talks, powered by BGSF, an opportunity to participate in small group conversations with peers to build connections and gather ideas that you can put into practice with your job search and along your professional journey. No sign-up required to participate;
      • Toast to an incredible day at Happy Hour, presented by KPMG; and
      • professional networking.

The WBC program sets itself apart from other women’s events by sharing the authentic stories of diverse women in a setting that fosters connection, empowerment, and lasting engagement.

We look forward to creating a SPARK! with you on Thursday, March 9, 2023.

ATHENA® Awards

The ATHENA® Leadership Program Award, presented by Wells Fargo, and Young Professional Leadership (YPL) ATHENA® Award, presented by Thomson Reuters, recognize exceptional women who excel in their careers, contribute to their communities, and develop future leaders.

MARKETPLACE, PRESENTED BY FROST

In addition to a lineup of inspiring speakers and leaders, the program will also include an exciting community marketplace, presented by Frost, featuring regional founders, creators, and entrepreneurs — each highlighting a unique mission or product

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

WE’RE EXCITED TO SEE YOU IN…

If you have registered on behalf of another guest, please pass this information along. For all guests, please allow plenty of time for your arrival. Parking, security, registration, and locating your seat will all take time.

  • AGENDA

  • LOCATION

    Gilley’s Dallas | 1135 Botham Jean Blvd. Dallas, TX 75215

    A map and driving directions can be found on the Gilley’s website or on Google Maps.

  • PARKING

    Complimentary parking is available in the lot behind Gilley’s (indicated on the below map in purple). Additionally, metered street parking is available in the surrounding areas.

  • WHAT DO I DO ONCE I ARRIVE?

    Enter through the main door, where you will be greeted by a DRC staff member. Feel free to find your seat in the Southside Ballroom (doors open at 11:30 a.m.), visit the Frost Marketplace, or stop by the Let’s Kick Glass Together Table Talks powered by BGSF.

  • FOOD AND BEVERAGE

    All attendees will be provided with lunch during Session 1, a snack during Session 3, and bites and a bar during happy hour. Beverages will be available throughout the day.

  • ATTIRE

    Business suits to cowboy boots. Wear what makes you feel your best.

THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS

PRESENTING SPONSOR
ATHENA® AWARD SPONSOR

YPL ATHENA® AWARD SPONSOR
HAPPY HOUR SPONSOR
LET’S KICK GLASS TOGETHER
TABLE TALKS POWERED BY

MARKETPLACE PRESENTED BY
GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

DHD Films | Fifth Third Bank | FORVIS | Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control | McCarthy Building Companies, Inc. | OCC | Simmons Bank | Southwest Airlines

 

FLORAL SPONSOR