Lead CLE
LEAD CLE
Professional
Development
Conference
Coming in November 2026
The Cleveland Foundation
Lead CLE: Professional Development Conference is a two-day conference dedicated to developing Cleveland’s next generation of business and community leaders with engaging workshops taught by some of the region’s top experts.
With programs specifically designed to help elevate the careers of emerging leaders and professionals, Lead CLE provides the tools to grow personally and professionally in Cleveland.
Stay Tuned for 2026 Conference Agenda
2025 Conference Topics Included:
Workplace 101
Every workplace has norms no one writes down—like where to sit, when to speak up, or how to interact with leadership. This session will explore the often-unspoken expectations that shape how we show up at work, from email tone and networking etiquette to understanding company culture and hierarchy.
Presented by: Renee Canfield, Executive Director of External Relations, Weatherhead School of Management, Case Western Reserve University
How Feedback Fuels Your Growth
Garet Libbey, Leadership Coach and Consultant, Garet Libbey Consulting, LLC
Ashley Mennow, Clinical Support Engineer Manager, MIM Software
Showing Up to Stand Out
Preparation is a form of power. In this session, we’ll explore why showing up prepared and present matters for your reputation and growth, how to do it well, and what it looks like in action. From entering meetings with clear ideas to communicating with confidence and follow-through, this session will give you tangible tools to stand out, build trust, and lead at any level.
Presented by: Mitchell Phelps, Enterprise GTM – Immigration & Global Mobility, Deel
Mastering Social Cues and Conversations
Ever wonder why one conversation lands and another flops? This session explores how to tune into body language, emotional tone, and social cues to better understand how others are feeling — and how to respond accordingly. From navigating tough conversations with your leader to preparing for unknown dynamics, you’ll walk away with tools to lead with empathy, agility, and intention.
Presented by: Dr. Domonique Revere, Founder & Chief Culture Architect at HRemedy Consulting
Being the CEO of Your Career
This session empowers attendees to lead their careers with clarity and confidence. We’ll explore how to assess your growth, identify when it’s time to stay or move on, and navigate the tension between loyalty and progression. From job changes and lateral moves to aligning purpose with practical needs, you’ll walk away with tools to stay engaged, advocate for yourself, and make empowered decisions—before burnout or quiet quitting creep in.
Presented by: LaToya Smith, Vice President, Talent Acquisition Manager, Fifth Third Bank
Your Career Toolkit for Any Role
Build essential skills that carry across roles and industries—like conflict resolution, adaptability, project management basics, and setting healthy boundaries. This session provides practical strategies to help you navigate any workplace, manage priorities, and maintain well-being for long-term success.
Presented by: Daniel Diaz Nilsson, Chief Research & Impact Officer, College Now Greater Cleveland
Mastering Prioritization and Decision-Making
In a fast-paced workplace, it’s easy to default to “yes” or rush into decisions. But strong professionals know when to pause. In this session, you’ll learn how to assess situations critically, weigh priorities thoughtfully, and build the confidence to say, “Let me think on that.” Walk away with tools to manage competing demands, make intentional decisions, and prepare with purpose.
Presented by: Jake Varinsky, Director of Corporate Sales, UserTesting
Commanding the Room
Whether you’re leading a meeting, presenting an idea, or speaking up in a one-on-one, your voice matters. This session will equip participants with practical public speaking and communication strategies to build confidence, command a room, and deliver messages with clarity and intention. We’ll focus on how to be compelling, concise, and credible—no matter your role or audience.
Presented by: Blake Babcock, Vice President, Client Engagement at Staffing Solutions Enterprises
9th Annual Lead CLE: Professional Development Conference
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- How to be an effective leader
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- Navigating change in the workplace
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