Connie Williams is an Executive Mindset Coach, author of Elect HER America and The CEO Method for HER, and founder of Organization Advisors, Inc./HER Workshops. With four decades of combined expertise in public sector leadership, nonprofit executive management,
and program management, Connie was named an Executive Woman of the Year for her impact. Once stuck in early-career roles, she transformed her career after adopting an executive mindset, and now helps others do the same. Through her dynamic
frameworks and signature coaching tools, she equips women to lead confidently, think strategically, and rise resiliently at every stage of their leadership journey.
Today’s leadership landscape demands more than functional skills; it requires an executive mindset. In this empowering and valuable session, participants will explore how to lead with increased confidence, enhanced strategic thinking, and greater resilience.
This workshop helps women leaders to develop an executive mindset before the title, because thinking and leading like an executive is the key to the next leadership level. Participants will learn the CEO Confidence for HER Framework, a three-part
strategy to overcome career stagnation, imposter syndrome, and self-doubt, and apply real-time executive-thinking prompts to elevate decision-making and organizational impact. With guided exercises, this interactive workshop prepares women
leaders to lead from within and confidently position themselves for advancement. Learning Objectives By the end of this session, participants will be able to:
Apply the CEO Confidence for HER™ Framework to become confident with an executive mindset.
Integrate strategic thinking tools to align outcomes, actions, and results with organizational outcomes.
Implement resilience practices that transform relational and organizational challenges into opportunities for leadership growth.
Learning Objectives
To activate an executive mindset for women leaders so they can lead confidently, think strategically, and turn challenges into career-accelerating wins for themselves and their organizations.
A2: Driving Innovation: A Fireside Chat with TxDOT CIO Anh Selissen
Location: Acacia & Bambu
Moderator: Tamara Fields - US Public Sector Industry Lead, Accenture
Anh Selissen - Chief Information Officer (CIO), Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT)
Tamara Fields, US Public Service Industry Lead for Accenture, is responsible for enhancing the operational efficiency of government entities through transformative back-office solutions and innovative uses of generative AI. Her work not only supports
the smooth running of governments but also significantly contributes to the well-being of communities, underscoring her belief that public service is crucial to the fabric of our society. As a business veteran with more than two decades
of cross-industry, multilateral project management experience, Tamara helps better serve clients with creative, strategic, and complex solutions. Tamara serves on the Red McCombs School of Business Advisory and is Accenture’s former executive
recruiting sponsor for UT. She is President and board member of the Texas Conference for Women. Tamara previously served as a board member for Austin Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Committee for several years promoting economic development
and still serves on Austin Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurship Committee. Tamara is a recipient of the Austin Chamber of Commerce’s Greater Austin Business Award for Executive Leadership and 2022 Greater Austin Business CEO/Top Site Leader
Award. She was named the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network’s 2019 Legacy Alumnus of the Year and is a winner of Austin Business Journal’s 2019 Profiles in Power award. She was recently selected for Austin Business Journal's "Texas 100" list
for 2022 and Austin Power Player in 2023 and 2024.
In an era where technology is the backbone of Government efficiency, the role of Chief Information Officers (CIOs) in state agencies is more critical than ever. This intimate conversation with TxDOT's CIO, Anh Selissen, will delve into the role of technology,
innovation, and leadership in driving business value through the implementation of innovations like advanced AI and data analytics. In this authentic conversation, discover the successes and challenges of driving innovation in the public sector,
and the impact these technologies have had on enhancing efficiency, driving data-driven decision-making, and fostering a culture of innovation within TxDOT. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a leader at the forefront
of technological advancement in the public sector. Learning Objectives include:
Hearing an intimate perspective from a large agency CIO on her journey to C-Suite leadership
How technology innovation drives real business value
How participants can work with their IT teams to drive efficiencies, uncover innovation, and deliver more business results
Learning Objectives
In this authentic conversation, discover the successes and challenges of driving innovation in the public sector, and the impact these technologies have had on enhancing efficiency, driving data-driven decision-making, and fostering a culture of innovation
within TxDOT. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a leader at the forefront of technological advancement in the public sector.
Erin Loman Jeck is a TEDx speaker, voice strategist, and founder of the Transformational Speakers Agency. With over a decade of experience coaching high-achieving women to communicate with power and presence, Erin helps professionals transform their voice
into their most strategic leadership tool. She has trained executives, entrepreneurs, and technical leaders across industries — including energy, tech, and healthcare — to speak confidently in high-stakes environments, lead with influence,
and turn their message into a business asset. Her expertise blends neuroscience, storytelling, and vocal psychology to help women shift perception, build trust, and increase visibility in traditionally male-dominated fields. She has coached
C-Level Executives in companies such as Boeing, Microsoft, Expedia, Google, and Amazon on maximizing their leadership through compelling communication. Erin’s latest TEDx Talk, delivered in Florence, Italy, focuses on owning your voice
to create ripple-effect influence. She’s known for her high-energy, interactive style and ability to help audiences immediately apply what they learn. Whether on global stages, in boardrooms, or virtual settings, Erin’s mission is to help
women rise, be heard, and lead with authenticity and impact.
Abstract
Discover how to speak with confidence, clarity, and command. In this empowering session, women will learn to own their voice, shift perception in any room, and communicate with authority — whether in leadership, negotiation, or everyday influence. After
participating in this session, attendees will be able to identify and shift vocal patterns (tone, pace, volume) that unconsciously diminish their authority and presence in leadership conversations. Attendees will learn how to structure and
deliver messages with greater clarity and confidence — whether presenting in a boardroom, leading a team, or advocating for themselves. Participants will walk away with a repeatable voice and mindset framework that helps them speak up with
power, command attention, and own the room — without changing who they are.
Learning Objectives
The purpose of Voice of a Leader is to help women reclaim and refine the most powerful tool they already possess: their voice. For too long, women have been told to quiet down, make themselves smaller, or speak only when spoken to — especially in high-stakes
rooms where decisions are made and futures are shaped. This session is designed to change that. Through practical strategies and empowering mindset shifts, I help women learn how to speak with confidence, clarity, and command — so they can
lead movements, close deals, claim space, and drive impact without apologizing for it. When a woman fully owns her voice, she doesn’t just change her career — she changes the room she walks into. My mission is to help more women do exactly
that.
A4: Be the Reason They Believe: Personalizing Public Trust
Location: Cypress
Marlene Phillips - Director, Center for Women in Government, Jane Nelson Institute for Women's Leadership
Marlene Phillips is the director of the Center for Women in Government at the Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership (JNIWL) at Texas Woman’s University. Phillips’ career began on Capitol Hill, where she worked in a Texas member’s personal office.
From there, she spent over 10 years at the American Red Cross, leveraging her experience with the International Committee of the Red Cross/Red Crescent to become a foreign service officer. As an FSO, Phillips mastered Spanish and French
while advancing U.S. foreign policy objectives in Mexico, France, and Ecuador. She is an active community volunteer and serves on the boards of several local nonprofits. She also owns a custom transportation business that primarily serves
the North Texas wine country. Phillips earned an MBA from Texas Woman’s University and a BA from Texas Tech University. The Jane Nelson Institute for Women’s Leadership at Texas Woman’s University is dedicated to preparing more women to
take on successful roles in business and public service. Its three specialized centers — Center for Student Leadership, Center for Women Entrepreneurs, and Center for Women in Government — ensure women have the education to establish careers
as successful executives, the skills for building entrepreneurial businesses, and the framework needed to run for public office.
Public trust in government is near historic lows. Just 22% of Americans say they trust the government in Washington to do what is right “just about always” or “most of the time”, while almost half (49%) of Texans say the state government “mostly ignores
the needs of Texas residents”. Distrust of government and the lack of confidence in government institutions, structures, and processes lowers efficiency, raises costs, and takes a toll on the mental health and well-being of public servants
who are limited in achieving personal and organizational goals when public trust wanes. These stats and insights aren’t new, and we’ve all heard them before, but what can we as individual government employees do about it? The answer … a lot!
Trust is built through communication and relationships, and we have agency in both of these areas. This agency could literally change hearts and minds, turning government from “other” to “us”. Dedicate yourself once more to delivering for
Texans by learning how you can rebuild public trust in government by:
Understanding the fundamentals of trust and how self-trust and relationship trust build the foundations for organizational, reputational, and societal trust.
Enhance your personal credibility and create trust by recognizing and employing the 13 behaviors of high-trust leaders.
Own and nurture the principle of contribution that is vital to societal trust and changing the reputation of government. Reinvigorating faith in government through thoughtful action and intentional contributions will amplify your immense power
as a public servant to improve the quality of life for Texans. Join me in turning dismay into displays of competence and character and regain pride in your vital service to Texans!
Learning Objectives
Use your power as a public servant to restore public confidence in government.
B1: Lead with Clarity and Confidence: Mental Fitness for Women in Government
Location: Portia
Ivette Flower, International Coaching Federation - Sales Trainer and Executive Coach, iFlower Solutions
Ivette Gonzalez Flower is a certified leadership and Positive Intelligence® coach with over 15 years of experience in sales leadership, professional coaching, and emotional intelligence training. As the founder of iFlower Solutions, Ivette helps government,
nonprofit, and corporate teams build sustainable resilience, clarity, and collaboration. A bilingual facilitator and former top-ranked national sales executive, Ivette now coaches professionals to lead with impact—without burnout. She
has presented for organizations such as Edward Jones, RE/MAX Professionals, State Farm, and various national women’s leadership conferences. Known for her engaging, practical style, Ivette blends neuroscience, coaching, and real-world
insight to help women leaders turn overwhelm into clarity and purpose.
Government leaders are navigating constant demands, high expectations, and public accountability. In roles that require integrity, advocacy, and community impact, sustainable leadership calls for more than knowledge—it requires emotional resilience.
This session equips women in government with practical, science-backed tools from Positive Intelligence® (PQ) and neuroscience to strengthen mental fitness, emotional regulation, and values-based decision-making. Participants will
learn to recognize and interrupt self-sabotaging habits—such as self-doubt and over-functioning—and replace them with calm, confident, and purpose-driven responses.
Through real-world examples and interactive exercises, leaders will leave with restorative daily practice and a fillable/printable action guide to capture notes and translate insights into immediate action. These tools will help
build resilience, sharpen clarity, and sustain leadership presence under pressure.
Learning Objectives
Identify the invisible barriers that drain teams and fuel self-sabotage and burnout
Train the mind to pause, respond, and choose wisely—developing resilience that strengthens performance
Apply emotional intelligence strategies to lead with clarity, confidence, and impact
B2: "Unite, Empower, Elevate: Transforming Texas Government through Technology"
Location: Acacia & Bambu
Moderator: Tamara Fields - US Public Sector Industry Lead, Accenture
Wendy Barron - Chief Information Officer , Texas Department of Motor Vehicles
Jessica Ballew - Chief of Information Technology, Texas Department of Public Safety
Megan Hare - Managing Director, Accenture
Sylvia Hernandez Kauffman - Chief Information Officer, Texas Health and Human Services
Tamara Fields, US Public Service Industry Lead for Accenture, is responsible for enhancing the operational efficiency of government entities through transformative back-office solutions and innovative uses of generative AI. Her work not only supports
the smooth running of governments but also significantly contributes to the well-being of communities, underscoring her belief that public service is crucial to the fabric of our society. As a business veteran with more than two decades
of cross-industry, multilateral project management experience, Tamara helps better serve clients with creative, strategic, and complex solutions. Tamara serves on the Red McCombs School of Business Advisory Board and is Accenture's former
executive recruiting sponsor for UT. She is the President and a board member of the Texas Conference for Women. Tamara previously served as a board member for the Austin Chamber of Commerce's Executive Committee for several years, promoting
economic development, and still serves on the Austin Chamber of Commerce Entrepreneurship Committee. Tamara is a recipient of the Austin Chamber of Commerce's Greater Austin Business Award for Executive Leadership and the 2022 Greater
Austin Business CEO/Top Site Leader Award. She was named the Texas Exes Black Alumni Network's 2019 Legacy Alumnus of the Year and is a winner of the Austin Business Journal's 2019 Profiles in Power award. She was recently selected for
the Austin Business Journal's "Texas 100" list for 2022 and Austin Power Player in 2023 and 2024.
Wendy Barron serves as the Chief Information Officer (CIO) for the Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TxDMV). In this role, she oversees the Information Technology Services Division (ITSD), which includes over 100 employees and additional contract staff.
Wendy's career in Texas government spans over two decades, with key tech leadership roles at TxDMV, the State Office of Administrative Hearings, and the Texas Water Development Board. Her academic background includes a Bachelor of Business
Administration in Computer Information Systems and a Master of Public Administration from Texas State University. She is also certified as a Project Management Professional. Wendy is dedicated to revolutionizing the Texas motor vehicle
service landscape through her extensive expertise in project management, data analysis, and systems analysis. Outside of her professional life, Wendy has a deep appreciation for the outdoors, stemming from her family's long history of
cattle ranching in Texas. She values resilience and authenticity, qualities that have helped her overcome numerous challenges throughout her career.
Jessica Ballew is the Chief of Information Technology at the Texas Department of Public Safety (TxDPS). With over 27 years of experience at TxDPS, Jessica has held various roles, starting as a clerk in the driver’s license division and progressing to
manage technology projects and program improvements 1. She has also served as the Chief of Administration, Infrastructure Operations, and the Innovation & Data Office. Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Arizona
State University and a Master’s degree in Operations Management from the University of Arkansas. Her extensive experience includes overseeing enterprise projects, procurements, and contracts, and she is actively involved in the Texas Association
of State Systems for Computing and Communication (TASSCC) Special Interest Group in Project Management. Jessica is dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of Texas residents through her leadership in public safety technology. She
emphasizes the importance of striving for excellence and making a difference in the community
Sylvia Hernandez Kauffman is chief information officer for the Texas Health and Human Services Commission.
Kauffman has more than three decades of experience in executive and senior leadership roles in information technology and state government.
She recently served as Inspector General for Texas Health and Human Services and previously worked in various leadership roles at HHSC, including as senior adviser for strategic infrastructure to the HHSC chief operating officer.
She also led the HHSC Office of e-Health Coordination, where she oversaw funding and policy development for the Health Information Exchange Network in Texas.
Prior to joining HHSC, Kauffman served in the state of Massachusetts’ IT division, where she led the procurement, design, development, and implementation of the state’s award-winning state government portal, www.Mass.Gov.
Kauffman earned a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Stanford University and a master’s degree in public policy from Harvard University.
In an era where technology is the backbone of Government efficiency, the role of Information Technology and the Chief Information Officers (CIOs) in Public Service is more critical than ever. This panel, moderated by Tamara Fields from Accenture, brings
together the CIOs from the Texas Department of Public Safety (TX DPS), Texas Health and Human Services Commission (TX HHSC), and Texas Department of Motor Vehicles (TX DMV) to discuss how they are leveraging technology to unite, empower, and
elevate their respective agencies. This panel will explore the innovative strategies and solutions these leaders are implementing to enhance public service delivery, improve government efficiency, and empower agencies to operate more efficiently.
Attendees will gain insights into the challenges and successes of digital transformation and technology innovation in state government, and how these CIOs are fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
Learning Objectives
Learn how Public Sector CIOs see their roles and the IT organization in supporting agency mission through innovative strategies and technology solutions.
The role of new advanced innovations like GenAI in enhancing public service delivery, and
Hear real examples of public sector challenges and successes of digital transformation and technology innovation
Elena Joy Thurston is a leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and founder of Latitude, where she helps mission-driven humans lead without losing their minds (or their weekends). With a background in organizational consulting and burnout prevention,
Elena Joy works with everyone from Fortune 500 execs to government leaders to help them stay clear, connected, and courageous enough to lead without burning out. Her workshops are known for being equal parts “ah-ha!” and “oh wow, that’s
me,” blending sharp insights with humor and humanity. Featured by Forbes, ABC, and HuffPost, and trusted by brands like Logitech, Penn State, and the Denver Broncos, she’s here to make burnout prevention feel less like a lecture and more
like a lifeline.
Abstract
"This Is Fine": Burnout, Boundaries & the Business of Being a Woman in Government.
For women in government roles, burnout doesn't always come from doing too much. Sometimes it's from holding back too much of who you really are. As public servants navigating high-pressure demands, limited resources, and complex
systems, the emotional toll can quietly erode your capacity to lead and serve. In this interactive workshop, you'll begin with a mini version of the Leadership Capacity Assessment: a quick self-check to identify where your burnout risk is
highest. (Hint: it's not always about doing too much. Sometimes it's about being the only one who sees what's coming, with no time or space to plan for it.) Using your personal results, we'll dive into the real-world pressures facing women
in government and teach practical, sustainable strategies to restore capacity without relying on generic "self-care." You'll leave with tools you can use immediately to manage stress in real time, speak up about unreasonable expectations,
and protect your ability to lead projects without draining yourself dry. Because when women in government unite around shared purpose, elevate their self-awareness and capacity, and empower themselves and each other with practical tools, burnout
can become a catalyst for stronger, more sustainable leadership. By the end of this presentation, participants will be able to: Practice real-time strategies to manage stress without waiting for time off or perfect conditions. Name your burnout
"hot spot" and understand how different types of capacity (emotional, cognitive, relational, etc.) show up in your leadership. Interrupt burnout patterns by learning to recognize when you're resisting reality and replacing it with clear, courageous
acknowledgment. Redefine self-care as a proactive leadership skill, not a reward for exhaustion, then customize it to protect your actual needs.
Learning Objectives
The goal of this presentation is for the participants to leave knowing at least three actions they can take immediately to prevent their specific burnout experience. Please note: while I am not local to TX, my brother lives in Austin, and I really should
visit him anyway. :)
B4: Confidence, Civility & the Courage to Lead: Modern Tools for Thriving at Work (and in Life)
Location: Cypress
Lauren Bernick - Founder, Host, Age Like a Badass Mother
Maggie Gallant - Founder, The Truly Terrific Tea Co.
Lauren Bernick is a dynamic health advocate, speaker, and educator who transformed her life after a 2015 diagnosis of coronary artery disease. Through a whole-food, plant-based diet, she reversed the disease, lost weight, and regained energy, all without
medication. She now hosts the popular podcast Age Like a Badass Mother, where she explores fresh perspectives on aging with humor and heart. Lauren holds a BA in Communication from the University of Houston, a Certificate in Plant-Based
Nutrition from eCornell’s T. Colin Campbell Center for Nutrition Studies, and spent 25 years as Director of Advertising for a pharmaceutical journal. Her background in stand-up comedy helps her connect with audiences in a way that’s honest,
funny, and deeply human.
Maggie Gallant is a British-born communications expert, etiquette trainer, and founder of the Truly Terrific Tea Co. With over 20 years of experience in corporate communications and event production across the UK and US, she now leads workshops focused
on civility and modern manners. Maggie blends her tea experience with practical strategies to help teams build trust, improve productivity, and celebrate success. Her signature 'Tea for Civility' programs use shared tea rituals as a metaphor
for mindfulness, empathy, and leadership with grace.
Laura Johannsen, PMP, is a leadership coach, trainer, and founder of Talk Like a Boss. With over 30 years of experience in training and management consulting, Laura has delivered more than 1,000 training sessions on topics such as emotional intelligence,
communication, psychological safety, and leadership development. She previously led middle and senior management programs at the Texas Department of Transportation and now works with clients across government, nonprofit, and private sectors
to build confident, emotionally intelligent leaders. Laura holds a BS in Psychology, a Master’s in Adult Education, and certifications as a PMP and Myers-Briggs Practitioner.
What does it take to lead with confidence, navigate workplace challenges with grace, and communicate effectively without losing your cool or your authenticity? In this session, three women bring their distinct perspectives to a shared goal: helping others
step into leadership and live well while doing it. You’ll explore how to build self-confidence, embrace modern workplace civility, and apply emotional intelligence to tough conversations. From managing up to managing yourself, we’ll give you
practical tools for working with people, not just processes. Because leading well means showing up as your whole self, with courage, clarity, and just enough polish to be heard.
Learning Objectives
This presentation will equip attendees with practical, actionable strategies for developing confidence, enhancing communication through civility, and applying emotional intelligence in real-world workplace situations. Participants will be empowered to
lead with clarity, professionalism, and authenticity.
C1: From Chaos to Contagious: How to Empower Teams to WIN!
Dr. Cliff Freeman is a transformational leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and founder of Cliff Speaks, LLC. With over 30 years of experience spanning military service, corporate consulting, education, and public service, Cliff has earned a national
reputation for helping leaders transform chaos into clarity and confusion into contagious teamwork. A former U.S. Army soldier and the architect behind the Contagious Teamwork™ framework, Cliff has worked with Fortune-level executives,
school districts, hospital systems, and U.S. military units. His leadership style blends battlefield-tested resilience with executive strategy, equipping professionals at every level to align teams, foster ownership, and lead with lasting
impact. Cliff has spoken at high-profile venues including Super Bowl Media Week, Fox29 Philadelphia, and multiple national conferences. His published book, The Art of Contagious Teamwork, and accompanying leadership programs have helped
thousands boost morale, performance, and purpose across sectors. Known for his high-energy presence and practical insight, Cliff doesn’t just deliver speeches—he delivers seismic shifts. His message is especially relevant for executive
women navigating complex systems, leading change, and building legacy leadership within Texas government. Learn more at www.clifffreemanspeaks.com.
Abstract
In today’s high-stakes government environments, leaders are often tasked with managing teams facing burnout, silos, and resistance to change. This engaging and actionable session introduces Dr. Cliff Freeman’s Contagious Teamwork™ framework—a leadership
approach designed to help executive women transform dysfunctional teams into empowered, high-performing units. Drawing on over three decades of experience across military, education, and executive consulting, Dr. Freeman breaks down the steps
to eliminate confusion, boost collaboration, and establish a culture of clarity and accountability. Through compelling stories, interactive engagement, and real-world tools, attendees will gain the confidence and capability to unite their
teams, empower individual ownership, and elevate performance across departments. This session supports the EWTG 2025 theme—Unite, Empower, Elevate—by giving participants practical, proven strategies to lead with vision and impact in any role
or agency. 🔹 Learning Objectives By the end of this session, participants will be able to: Identify and address three root causes of team dysfunction common in public sector leadership settings. Apply a 5-step leadership framework to improve
team alignment, engagement, and accountability. Communicate a compelling vision that inspires collaboration and creates buy-in across diverse stakeholders.
Learning Objectives
The purpose of this presentation is to equip executive women in Texas government with a powerful framework to transform misaligned, underperforming teams into cohesive, empowered units that consistently deliver results. Through his Contagious Teamwork™
model, Dr. Cliff Freeman helps leaders eliminate confusion, foster ownership, and inspire alignment across every level of their organization. This session supports the EWTG conference goals by offering: A clear, actionable leadership strategy
aligned with the “Unite, Empower, Elevate” theme Tactical communication and team-building tools for government environments A motivational and interactive experience that drives sustainable professional development Participants will leave
with renewed clarity, confidence, and concrete methods to lead with impact—whether they are managing a department, a project team, or influencing from within.
C2: A Playbook for Leading Technology and Innovation in Traditional Environments
Location: Acacia & Bambu
Alicia Morgan PMP, AM-MC - Innovation Strategist, Independent Consultant
Alicia M. Morgan is a cross-sector project strategist with 15+ years leading innovation in technical, nonprofit, and public-serving environments. She began her career in aerospace, managing multimillion-dollar capital projects, before transitioning to
education and workforce development—bringing structured thinking into more ambiguous, resource-constrained spaces. She is the creator of the Cross-Industry PM Playbook, a practical toolkit for leading innovation in traditional, high-accountability
environments. Alicia is a PMP-certified leader, TEDx speaker, and past Dallas Business Journal Women in Technology Advocate Honoree, recognized nationally for bridging structure and innovation. Her expertise spans agile delivery, executive
alignment, AI adoption, and strategic program design. She has presented at PMI, AgileCon, the Society of Women Engineers, and more. Through storytelling, data framing, and systems thinking, Alicia empowers mission-driven leaders to drive
change—whether launching digital tools, leading policy shifts, or scaling new initiatives.
This session introduces a practical, cross-sector project management playbook for leading technology advancement in complex, regulated, and resource-variable environments. Leaders today must drive innovation while managing legacy systems, tight budgets,
ethical risks, and rapid AI adoption. Drawing from aerospace, education, nonprofit, and enterprise experience, Alicia M. Morgan offers actionable strategies to unite teams, empower leaders, and elevate impact through structured innovation
and responsible tech integration. 📂 GitHub PM Playbook: github.com/AliciaMMorgan/cross-industry-pm-playbook 🌐 Website: aliciammorgan.com
Learning Objectives
Participants will learn to:
Lead technology advancement using project management practices tailored for traditional, high-compliance sectors.
Empower cross-functional teams to adopt emerging tools (AI, data platforms, systems) with agility and structure.
Navigate governance, ethical considerations, and data risks when delivering innovation and technology advancement at scale.
Christy Ashworth-Mazerolle is the Operations Director of Contract and Audits for Community Services. She is a seasoned leader with 24 years of state service at DFPS and HHSC, specializing in strategic direction, policy development, and continuous process
improvement. She is a certified leadership consultant for The Leadership Challenge (a Wiley brand) and an experienced speaker at state and national conferences. A graduate of Texas State University, Christy holds a Bachelor's in Psychology
and a Master of Public Administration. She is trained in public management, skilled in developing solutions to complex problems, and is a Certified Texas Contract Manager. Christy is also the author of Emotional Labor Among Adult Protective
Services Caseworkers and is inspired by her favorite leadership book, Turn the Ship Around by David Marquet, which champions intentional leadership and empowering individuals as leaders to create a cohesive system of high-performing teams.
Explore the advantages of fostering strong relationships, review practical, actionable ideas for building team unity, add to our toolkit some team-building activities, and discuss leadership tips to strengthen collaboration, boost morale, and create a
more connected and higher-performing team.
Learning Objectives
In today’s fast-paced work environment, connection and cohesiveness aren’t just nice to have-they’re essential for team success. This engaging session explores the advantages of fostering strong relationships at work and offers practical, actionable ideas
for building team unity. Leaders will walk away with a toolkit of team-building activities, conversation starters, and leadership tips designed to strengthen collaboration, boost morale, and create a more connected, high-performing team.
C4: Level Up: Establishing and Promoting Your Brand
Location: Cypress
Carol Egele - Deputy Executive Director of Administration, Texas Historical Commission
Dr. Carol Egele possesses more than 18 years of distinguished experience within the Texas state government and currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer at the Texas Historical Commission, where she oversees all operational areas. She holds five
academic degrees, including a Doctorate in Education, a Master of Business Administration, and a Master of Management and Leadership. Dr. Egele is a certified project management professional with certifications in human resources and nonprofit
management.
Demonstrating a steadfast commitment to leadership development, Dr. Egele has mentored hundreds of individuals throughout her career. A native of Texas, she is married and has one adult child. Among her notable achievements
are graduation from the Governor’s Executive Development Program and receipt of the 2025 WGU Distinguished Graduate Award. Furthermore, Dr. Egele contributes to academia as an adjunct faculty member, teaching business courses at the Center
for Advanced Legal Studies.
The presentation aims to equip attendees with strategies and techniques for developing a compelling personal brand and effectively promoting themselves. Participants will be provided with resources to help them identify and establish their unique brand.
Learning Objectives
Establishing and promoting your brand is essential for professional growth and success. You can achieve visibility, recognition, and influence by developing a strong personal brand and actively promoting yourself. For women professionals, these efforts
are significant as they contribute to uniting, empowering, and elevating the collective strength of women in the workforce. Through collaboration, mentorship, and challenging barriers, women can create a lasting impact and foster a vibrant,
inclusive professional community.
Understand the strategies and techniques for developing a compelling personal brand.
Recognize the importance of actively promoting oneself for professional growth and success.
Identify ways women professionals can collaborate, mentor, and overcome barriers to create a lasting impact in the workforce.
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