Conference speakers

Keele Taylor

​Precious Lesley
​You won't want to miss Keele Taylor, a seasoned HR expert. With 20 years of experience, she's transformed leadership teams, retention strategies, and talent development across diverse industries. Certified by the Society of Human Resources Management and The HR Certification Institute, Keele's insights are invaluable. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from a dynamic HR professional!
Meet Precious, the driving force behind Loud Nerd. She's on a mission to bridge the gap between neurodivergent job seekers and inclusive employers. As a Black, autistic woman, Precious's work is deeply rooted in an intersectional perspective, promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA). Join us for an enlightening session with Precious, where you'll gain insights into creating inclusive workplaces and empowering neurodiversity.

​Jesse DePriest

Chad McBride
Introducing Jesse, over 30 years of senior leadership experience across manufacturing and banking/service sectors. Jesse holds a BS in Mechanical Engineering, an MS in Operations Management, and an MBA. His diverse background includes eight years of service in the US Army as an officer and helicopter pilot.
​
Jesse's passion lies in lean leadership, coaching, strategic planning, and process improvement. He's also a driving force behind "5L" - Nebraska's Lean Leadership Collaborative, and serves as a Vistage executive coach. Join us for a transformative session with Jesse, where you'll gain valuable insights into lean leadership and operational excellence.
Meet Dr. M. Chad McBride, a distinguished Professor in the Communication Studies Department at Creighton University. With a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, his research focuses on the co-construction of identities within social networks and culture.
​
Dr. McBride's achievements include being the former President and Hall of Fame Member of CSCA, and he also served as the President of OSCLG. Notably, he was the first male to be inducted as a Wise Women of OSCLG. Join us for an engaging session with Dr. McBride to explore the fascinating world of communication and identity construction.

Karla Bergen

Allison Thorson
Come hear Dr. Karla Bergen, retired Associate Professor from the College of Saint Mary in Omaha, Nebraska, with a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Her research is centered around the intriguing realms of women's communicative identity construction and unconventional interpersonal relationships.
​
Dr. Karla Bergenis an active member of prestigious organizations such as NCA, CSCA, OSCLG, and the Council on Contemporary Families. Join us for an enlightening session with Dr. [Name] as we explore the captivating world of communication and identity.
Dr. Allison R. Thorson, a renowned Professor and Chair at the University of San Francisco's Department of Communication Studies. With a Ph.D. from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, her research dives into how individuals and families communicate during challenging and unconventional life events.
Dr. Thorson's work uncovers the vital role of communication in managing well-being amidst the unexpected. She also directs USF's Interdisciplinary Committee on Children and Youth and is an active member of leading organizations like NCA, CSCA, and WSCA.

 Mark L. Mathia

Jeremy Bouman​
​Don't miss Mark L. Mathia, Chief Experience Officer at Signature Performance, as he unveils the ALOHA well-being framework. Discover how to boost employee well-being, performance, and ethical decision-making through Achievement, Legacy, Others, Health, and Adventure principles. Essential for all business leaders and managers keen on creating an inclusive, ethical, high-performing organization. Join us for a transformative discussion on fostering workplace well-being.
Don't miss Jeremy Bouman, Founder and CEO of RISE, a Nebraska non-profit dedicated to breaking generational cycles of incarceration. With programming in 7 Nebraska prisons and a comprehensive approach spanning character development, employment readiness, reentry planning, and entrepreneurship, RISE is making waves. Jeremy, with 20 years of leadership experience, will share how RISE's post-release support, family programs, and advocacy work are shaping the future of criminal justice reform in Nebraska. Join us for a session that promises inspiration and transformation.

Jen Rae Wang​

Get ready to meet Jen Rae Wang, a true dynamo in the worlds of marketing, public affairs, and education. Currently the Vice President of Marketing and Public Affairs for Nebraska Pro Volleyball, Jen Rae's journey is nothing short of inspiring.
With a background that includes being Associate Administrator for the Office of Communications & Senior Advisor to NASA's Administrator, Deputy Chief of Staff for Congressman Don Bacon, and Director of Government Relations at Platte Institute for Economic Research, she's left an indelible mark on local politics and public policy.
Jen Rae's corporate experience is equally impressive, with roles in Government and Regulatory Affairs at Cox Communications and various positions in City-Ventures.
But that's not all. She's also a passionate educator, having taught International Business, Economics, and Advanced Public Relations Theories and Practices. Her academic prowess is underscored by an MBA from Doane University and executive certifications from MIT Sloan and Harvard Kennedy Schools.
Don't miss this chance to learn from a dynamic leader who's made her mark across multiple arenas!