General Sessions
Keynote Speaker
Former Gov. Jeb Bush
Leading in a Climate of Change Jeb Bush's definition of leadership – being an advocate for big ideas that require big changes – informed his sweeping reforms during his tenure as governor of Florida. In the face of radical change, he advocated for new solutions to replace outmoded policies that no longer worked effectively. At the heart of his success was his ability to inspire citizens, businesspeople and policymakers to embrace change as the only way to take charge of the future.
In eight years, he reformed traditional institutions, including health care and education, and directed the swift preparations and intense response efforts to eight hurricanes. Bush knows firsthand how to unite a disparate bureaucracy into one focused on innovation and continual success, and understands how to lead an unwieldy organization through growth, change and crisis. Attendees will learn why successful leaders:
- Encourage transparency; say what they're going to do and then do it.
- Surround themselves with good people; set high expectations and watch them be met.
- Stay connected; enfranchise the disenfranchised.
- Understand that success is never final, that reform is never complete and that leadership requires constant vigilance.
Keynote Speaker
Captain Mark Kelly
Endeavour to Succeed On January 8, 2011, Captain Mark Kelly would face the toughest challenge of his life when an assassination attempt was made on his wife, former Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. His dedication to family and Giffords' recovery would captivate the nation.
For Kelly, focus equals success – even in the face of adversity. Personifying the best of the American spirit, Kelly is a homegrown hero who was a combat pilot in Iraq, an astronaut on four space shuttle missions and commander of the final flight of space shuttle Endeavour. He has combined teamwork, leadership, communication and family in an unwavering commitment to succeed. Kelly shows audiences how to accomplish their mission while maintaining the love and devotion to family that is the foundation of true success.
Former congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords will make a special guest appearance following Kelly’s keynote address.
