What to expect?
Keynote Speaker
Lauren Sisler
Lauren Sisler is a national award-winning sports broadcaster who has been captivating audiences with her insightful coverage on ESPN since 2016. Not only is she a powerhouse in the broadcasting world, but she’s also the author of the compelling new book, 'Shatterproof.' As a sportscaster and former collegiate gymnast, Lauren is passionate about sports, but even more passionate about telling the stories of the coaches, athletes, and fans who make it more than a game.
Lauren's life was not always marked by victories. In 2003, as a freshman at Rutgers University, tragedy struck when she unexpectedly lost both parents within hours of each other to their hidden battle with prescription drug addiction. Through her grief, Lauren emerged from the shadows of shame and found renewed hope. “I carried that shame until I finally realized I wouldn’t let the pain I harbored define me, just like it didn’t define my parents.” Harnessing her pain as a catalyst for growth, Lauren embraced her story, transforming her anguish and heartbreak into a source of strength and healing. She now recognizes that living courageously and authentically can unlock remarkable potential, and she embodies this truth in every aspect of her life.
Through vibrant storytelling, Lauren connects deeply with her audience, motivating them to redefine their own stories to find peace and purpose. "Your story is significant. Learn to love it, then do something with it." Her message is clear: confront adversity with bravery, own your story, and let it propel you towards a future filled with greater meaning and fulfillment.
Master of Ceremonies
Christina Bolt
Christina Bolt is a career communicator with a passion for people and story. Her professional journey spans a variety of communicative fields including television news, professional athletics and local government.
As a southwest Virginia native, Christina is a self-proclaimed “story nerd” who often slips into reporter-mode when meeting new people. Christina calls it an interest in behavioral psychology, her friends and family call it annoying that she talks to every sweet old lady in the grocery store checkout.
Leveraging unique life lessons through personal sorrow and professional success, Christina advocates for empathy, connection and marketability in the workplace.
She serves on the State Board of Directors for the Children’s Advocacy Centers of Virginia, and has two children whom she and her husband adopted.
When Christina isn’t serving as Public Relations Director for the Town of Christiansburg, you might find her at a Virginia Tech football game, cheering on the Eagles, or traveling across the country.
Since we love the enneagram here at the Chamber, Christina is a 7 - wing 8.
9:00: Introduction & Keynote
10:30: Breakout Session
11:45: Lunch & Awards
1:00: Silent Auction Ends & Breakout Session
2:00: Micro Breakout Session
3:00: Networking Reception begins
Breakout Speaker
Michelle Carter
Michelle Carter joined the Division of Human Resources at Virginia Tech in February 2023 and currently serves as a Senior Talent Development Specialist. As part of the Talent Development team, her work focuses on empowering employees through engagement, education, and practical leadership development experiences. She leads the execution of the university’s Leadership Development program, including the cohort-based experience Leadership Excellence, and plays a key role in the design and delivery of a university-wide manager development program supporting leaders at all levels across the institution. She is also part of the team that develops the Division of Human Resources internship program.
Michelle believes that adult learning is—and should be—a transformative experience. Michelle earned a master’s degree from West Virginia University and an undergraduate degree from Fairmont State University.
Outside of work, Michelle lives in Blacksburg, Virginia, and is deeply engaged in her community. She serves as the Volunteer Advisory Board Lead for Blacksburg Dance Theater and volunteers with youth sports and music programs. At home, she shares her life with her human family, a silly chocolate lab, and one ornery cat. She loves food, spends way too much time watching sports, shamelessly reads a ridiculous number of historical romance novels, and can usually be found taxiing the two youngest humans in her household to all of their activities.
Breakout Speaker
Donna Weaver McCloskey, Ph.D.
Dr. Donna Weaver McCloskey is the Dean of the Davis College of Business and Economics and Professor of Management at Radford University. She earned her Ph.D. in Decision Sciences/MIS from Drexel University, an MBA from Widener University and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Delaware.
Throughout her career, Dr. McCloskey has been recognized for excellence in teaching, research, and leadership. Her scholarship examines how individuals and organizations adapt to new technologies and navigate the increasingly blurred boundaries between work and life. She has published widely and is deeply committed to ensuring that academic insights inform real-world decision-making.
Dr. McCloskey’s leadership is grounded in connection, courage and care. Since joining Radford University in July 2024, she has focused on creating environments where students and faculty can thrive, building programs that translate education into opportunity, and strengthening relationships across campus and community. She is a strong advocate for women in leadership and supporting personal growth. She leads with clarity, energy and a conviction that showing up—and bringing others with you—is how lasting impact is made.
Outside of work, she is grateful for a wonderful husband, proud of three young adult children finding their own paths, and kept humble by a mischievous (and much-loved) dog who remains unconvinced about who is actually in charge.
Breakout Speaker
Katie Beach
Katie Beach is a dynamic speaker and leadership development expert with over 20 years of experience inspiring leaders and teams to reach their full potential. Drawing from a diverse background in Division I athletics, healthcare, career services, and economic development, Katie brings a unique perspective to her work, engaging audiences with high energy and actionable insights.
As a speaker, facilitator, and coach, Katie specializes in helping leaders get comfortable with the uncomfortable to create momentum, build stronger teams, and drive meaningful change. She is passionate about developing better leaders as the foundation for improving employee engagement and the overall workplace experience.
Katie holds certifications in executive coaching, Talent management, Red Team coaching, and incorporates tools like Everything DiSC® and Gallup CliftonStrengths® into her work. She earned both her undergraduate and master’s degrees from East Carolina University, and in addition to her Pirate family, also has a Hokie heart. Katie lives with her family in Salem, VA.
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