2026 Leadership Symposium

Executive Presence & Presentation Poise

Three days on campus. One immersive leadership experience designed to strengthen how you lead, communicate and influence.

woman giving a presentation in a conference room

2026 Symposium Details

September 11–13, 2026

This year's symposium centers on the essential verbal and non-verbal communication skills that distinguish influential leaders. Through sessions focused on authentic presence, strategic messaging and compelling delivery techniques, participants will master communicating with clarity, confidence and credibility while cultivating a personal leadership brand that inspires trust and drives organizational success.

Cost to attend: $995

Includes meals during the program.
*Does not include lodging

Learning Objectives

—	Structure concise, memorable messages and presentations tailored to diverse audiences using proven frameworks and storytelling techniques
—	Demonstrate executive presence by applying verbal and nonverbal communication strategies that convey confidence, credibility and authenticity.
—	Apply effective delivery techniques to engage audiences, using body language, eye contact and movement to reinforce key messages

—	Enhance vocal delivery skills by practicing techniques to speak with gravitas, including tone, pacing emphasis and intentional pauses.
—	Navigate tough questions and high-stakes conversations with bridging, blocking and flagging techniques.
—	Develop an elevator pitch and formal presentation that demonstrates the application of message structure, executive presence and delivery techniques

Meet your faculty for the weekend

Lead Facilitator

Lauren Dugan

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Guest Presenter

Shelly O'Donovan

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Guest Presenter

Jeff Giacoponello

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A weekend built for momentum, on Villanova's campus

FRIDAY

5:00 – 6:30 PM

Cocktails, dinner and professional networking

6:30 – 8:00 PM

Fireside chat with panelist

SATURDAY

9:00 – 9:30 AM

Introductions

9:30 AM – 12:00 PM

Presenter session

12:00 – 1:30 PM

Lunch & networking

1:30 – 5:00 PM

Presenter session

Breakfast and lunch included

SUNDAY

9:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Case applications

12:00 PM

Lunch & networking

Breakfast and lunch included

*Please note, lodging is not provided.

Registration for this event has passed.

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