Unveiling The WICT Network's

 2024 Leadership Conference Agenda!

Monday & Tuesday, October 21-22

New York Marriott Marquis

IN-PERSON • LIVE STREAMED

With the Leadership Conference right around the corner, we’re excited to give you an exclusive preview of the agenda! This year’s theme, Fueling Your Power and Purpose, will provide an unforgettable experience filled with dynamic speakers, insightful sessions and invaluable networking opportunities. Join top executives, visionaries and trailblazers as we help you sharpen your leadership style and elevate your business strategies. Get a closer look at the topics and discussions that will help shape your leadership journey!

Monday, October 21

9:00 - 10:00 am

Sponsored by: Comcast NBCUniversal

Speakers:

• Maria E. Brennan, CAE, President & CEO, The WICT Network
• Leigh Woisard, 2024 Board Chair and Conference Committee Chair & Global Board Chair, The WICT Network

Join us as we, once again, kick off Diversity Week with The WICT Network 2024 Leadership Conference! WICT leaders Maria Brennan and Leigh Woisard, as they welcome conference attendees with surprise entertainment and introduce an inspirational keynote conversation. Our top-rated Leadership Conference sets the bar high—and this year will be no exception.

10:15 - 11:15 am

Sponsored by: Astound Broadband

Speakers:

• Jeff Benton, Founder & CEO, Paragon Performance Evolution
• Brett Weinroth, Partner & Managing Director, Paragon Performance Evolution

Self-awareness is crucial for high-performing leaders, enabling them to effectively regulate emotional states and reactions. This session will explore the challenges of leading in a world that changes faster than we are equipped to handle...learn more

10:15 - 11:15 am

Sponsored by: TV One

Speakers:

• Moderator: Annie Howell, Chief Communications Officer, Hallmark Media
• Roy Cho, EVP, Distribution, AMC Networks
• Soraya Loerts, Managing Director, Global Talent and Chief DEI Officer, Liberty Global
• Michelle Powell, SVP, Business Integration, Charter Communications

In an industry and era marked by breakneck change, the ability to adapt and pivot one’s career path is more critical than ever. This panel discussion will delve into the essentials in preparing for and successfully managing career transitions...learn more

10:15 - 11:15 am

Sponsored by: AWS

Speakers:

• Moderator: Louis Gump, Innovation & Digital Media Executive and Author
• Shilpa Bisaria, VP, Global Corporate Strategy & Head of Emerging Tech Accelerator, Warner Bros. Discovery
• Suzanne Foy, VP, Customer Experience Operations, Strategy & Process, Cox Communications
• Morgan Greco, SVP, Digital Business Development, A+E Networks
• Lauren Morrissey, SVP, Platform Distribution Sales, Disney

Dive into the world of intrapreneurship. This session will explore how visionary leaders can foster innovation and drive significant growth...learn more

10:15 - 11:15 am

Participants will rotate through a series of engaging, 15-minute micro sessions designed to provide focused insights and practical tools for thriving in the digital age.

AI Tools & Apps You Need to Know

Speakers:

• Orlando Hampton, Chief Customer Officer, Afiniti
• Brooke McAnaney, GVP, Content Security Technology & Operations, Warner Bros. Discovery

Staying current on technological trends and emerging technologies is the focus of this high-level micro session...

Tech Tools for Enhanced Well-Being

Join our wellness expert, who will begin with a guided meditation and then explore how to seamlessly integrate technology into your mindfulness practice...

Boost Your Productivity

Speaker:

• Molly Rupert-Sullivan, Global Adoption Lead, Gen AI & Microsoft Copilot, Accenture

Discover how technology can enhance your productivity. Begin with a live demonstration of Microsoft Co-Pilot to see how...



Learn more about each session

11:30 am - 1:30 pm

Champion Sponsors: AMC Networks, Liberty Global and Warner Bros. Discovery



The WICT Network Touchstones Luncheon recognizes the stand-out achievements of media, entertainment and technology’s most influential women. Among the honors to be presented will be the 2024 Women of the Year and Women to Watch awards, The WICT Network's highest individual accolades. Reserve your table!

2:00 - 3:00 pm

Sponsored by: Microsoft

Speaker:

• Victoria Medvec, Best-Selling Author & Professor, Kellogg School of Management

Join Victoria Medvec, renowned negotiation expert and bestselling author, in a transformative session designed to empower you in personal and professional negotiations. Drawing from her latest book, Negotiate Without Fear, Victoria will share...learn more

2:00 - 3:00 pm

Speakers:

• Morag Barret, Founder & CEO, SkyeTeam
• Eric Spencer, COO, SkyeTeam

For over two decades, Gallup has posed the question: Do you have a best friend at work? Those who say “yes” exhibit higher engagement...learn more

2:00 - 3:00 pm

Sponsored by: Cox Communications

Speaker:

• Sarah Nicole Landry, Body Confidence Advocate, Content Creator and Writer, The Birds Papaya

Join us for a transformative discussion on the importance of self-love in today’s social media ladened society. Featuring leading voices in body positivity and mental health, our diverse lineup of activists, psychologists and influencers will explore the journey of acceptance...learn more

2:00 - 3:00 pm

Participants will rotate through a series of engaging, 15-minute micro sessions designed to provide focused insights and practical tools for thriving in the digital age.

AI Tools & Apps You Need to Know

Speakers:

• Orlando Hampton, Chief Customer Officer, Afiniti
• Brooke McAnaney, GVP, Content Security Technology & Operations, Warner Bros. Discovery

Staying current on technological trends and emerging technologies is the focus of this high-level micro session...

Tech Tools for Enhanced Well-Being

Join our wellness expert, who will begin with a guided meditation and then explore how to seamlessly integrate technology into your mindfulness practice...

Boost Your Productivity

Speaker:

• Molly Rupert-Sullivan, Global Adoption Lead, Gen AI & Microsoft Copilot, Accenture

Discover how technology can enhance your productivity. Begin with a live demonstration of Microsoft Co-Pilot to see how...

Learn more about each session

3:00 - 3:20 pm

Speaker:

• Beth Carr, Founder, Fortified Branding

Led by an expert in crafting compelling professional narratives, this micro session will equip you with the skills to create a concise, attention-grabbing pitch that effectively communicates your value...learn more

3:20 - 4:20 pm

Speakers:

• John Dorval, SVP, Americas Service Provider, Cisco
• Steph Lone, Global Leader, Solutions Architecture, Media, Entertainment, Games & Sports, Amazon Web Services
• Soo Jin Oh, Chief Strategy Officer, FreeWheel - Comcast
• Laura Peterson, North America Communications, Media & Technology Industry Practices Lead, Accenture

In an era marked with rapid technological evolution, the skills required in today’s workplace are transforming faster than ever. This session will delve into how artificial intelligence, digital transformation and emerging technologies are reshaping...learn more

4:30 - 5:30 pm

Sponsored by: Accenture

Speakers:

• Danita Johnson, President, Business Operations, D.C. United
• Renee Montgomery, VP and Partner, Atlanta Dream, WNBA

As we step out of the coveted Summer Olympics, let’s step into the world of more elite athletes and sports executives to discover the secrets behind their peak performance under pressure...learn more

5:30 - 6:30 pm 

Sponsored by: A+E Networks



Take in the panoramic views of Times Square and the Theater District with your conference colleagues during The WICT Network’s Big Apple Reception.

Tuesday, October 22

8:00 - 8:30 am

Sponsored by: Warner Bros. Discovery

Speaker:

• Jamie Kern Lima, Self-Made Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Co-Founder, IT Cosmetics

Join us for an inspiring keynote by Jamie Kern Lima, the trailblazing entrepreneur and founder of IT Cosmetics. In this powerful session, Jamie will share her transformative journey from a struggling startup founder to a successful business leader...learn more

8:40 - 9:40 am

Speaker:

• Leigh Woisard, Communications Consultant & Global Board Chair, The WICT Network

This session is not about making work all around better. It’s about making you better at work by being intentional about digging out of career stagnation. This session aims to help you craft an unforgettable...learn more

8:40 - 9:40 am

Speaker:

• Anita Nowak, Empathy Expert, Author and Award-winning Educator

Empathy has never been more important to democracy and the future of humanity, and understanding its role in the workplace has never been more critical. Empathy isn’t just a fundamental aspect of our human experience...learn more

8:40 - 9:40 am

Speaker:

• Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, Harvard Medical School Physician, Author and National TV Correspondent

In today’s fast-paced, high-stress world, achieving mental and physical well-being can feel like a distant goal. Join Dr. Aditi Nerurkar, a leading expert in integrative medicine, for an empowering session on transformative strategies to reset...learn more

8:40 - 9:40 am

Sponsored by: REVOLT



Participate in engaging dialogue with industry leaders to discuss pertinent topics for the workplace today. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or aspiring to take on leadership roles, this roundtable will...learn more

9:40 - 10:00 am

Speaker:

• Beth Carr, Founder, Fortified Branding

Led by an expert in crafting compelling professional narratives, this micro session will equip you with the skills to create a concise, attention-grabbing pitch that effectively communicates your value...learn more

10:00 - 10:45 am

Sponsored by: Charter Communications

Speakers:

• Patty Boyers, President & Co-founder, BOYCOM Vision
• Melani Griffith, Chief Growth Officer, GFiber
• Sophia Kianni, Founder, Climate Cardinals & Youngest Appointed United Nations Advisor
• Sherrill Mosee, Founder and CEO, Minkeeblue
• Mariana van Zeller, Investigative Journalist, Host and Executive Producer of Emmy-nominated TRAFFICKED

Styled after the famed TED Talks, this inspirational session convenes dynamic and innovative thought leaders to impart their wisdom in a series of high-impact keynotes...learn more

10:55 - 11:55 am

Speakers:

• Moderator: Michelle Rice, President, TV One and Cleo TV
• Mark Greatrex, President, Cox Communications
• Chris Winfrey, CEO, Charter Communications

Join us for an intimate and insightful discussion featuring top leaders in media, entertainment and technology. This session will delve into the current state of the industry, exploring key challenges...learn more

12:00 - 12:45 pm

Speakers:

• Moderator: Nilda Gumbs, Chief of Staff, NCTA - The Internet & Television Association
• Rhonda Crichlow, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer, Charter Communications
• Loren Hudson, SVP and Chief Diversity Officer, Comcast Cable
• Kia Painter, EVP and Chief People Officer, Cox Communications
• Asif Sadiq, Global Chief Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Officer, Warner Bros. Discovery

The AIM/PAR Diversity Survey results are in! Join The WICT Network, NAMIC and The NCTA Education Foundation as we convene several of the top DEI experts to discuss the current state of ethnic and gender diversity...learn more

For those who haven't registered for the Leadership Conference, click here and come back to this page to sign up for your extracurricular activities. 

Can't join us in person? Register for our virtual conference option. All mainstage content will be live-streamed, along with select breakout sessions and the Touchstones Luncheon. One-on-one executive coaching and networking opportunities are also included.

The WICT Network Senior Executive Summit is an invitation-only learning opportunity designed exclusively for top-ranking women in media, entertainment and technology. Presented in collaboration with the Stanford Graduate School of Business (GSB), this master class program combines the power of The WICT Network’s proven leadership development programs with the excellence of Stanford’s top-rated business school.

Each year the curriculum is all new—customized to ensure participants are learning the latest and most relevant innovations in strategic leadership and business research. Participants can attend year after year — or for one single year — for continued executive education.

As you plan your budget for the coming year, be sure to set aside funds to attend this elite training held on the Stanford University campus. The member rate of $11,495 includes accommodations, meals and program materials. We hope to see you there!

2024 Betsy Magness Graduate Institute

Agenda Announced!

Stories of Change: Thriving Amid Adversity

November 13-15, 2024 | W Hotel | Philadelphia, PA

Exclusively for BMLI alumnae

Register now to take advantage of a $100 discount

Join us at the Betsy Magness Graduate Institute, presented by The WICT Network, for an exclusive leadership program tailored for alumnae of the Betsy Magness Leadership Institute (BMLI). Reconnect with fellow graduates and engage in thought-provoking conversations that foster growth, resilience and innovation. Stories of Change, Thriving Amid Adversity, celebrates our shared journey and the collective strength of our community. Drawing on rigorous research from the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) and other cutting-edge sources, the program is thoughtfully designed to provide transformative insights and practical tools.



As a BMGI participant, you can expect to experience everything you’ve come to appreciate about Betsy Magness programs — learning, inspiration, community and reconnection! Not only will you gain insights into the latest trends in leadership and strategic thinking from innovative subject-matter experts, but there will also be ample opportunities to network with your peers.

Check out what we have planned and become part of this extraordinary experience!

Thursday, November 14

Session Time: 9:30 am – 4:30 pm

This session challenges conventional leadership paradigms and introduces the concept of anti-fragility — moving beyond resilience and grit to thrive in the face of disruption. Rooted in rigorous research from the Center for Creative Leadership and other pioneering sources, the sessions will provide transformative insights and tools crafted to leverage change as a catalyst for growth and innovation. Under the guidance of seasoned experts, you will delve into and practice core leadership competencies that foster anti-fragility. Depart with a robust personal action plan ready to implement strategies that strengthen teams, foster creativity and drive continuous improvement.

• Linda King, Master Trainer and Leadership Solutions Facilitator, Center for Creative Leadership
• Jonathan Vehar, Innovation Thought-Leader and Leadership Solutions Facilitator, Center for Creative Leadership

Friday, November 15

Session Time: 8:00 – 10:00am

Join Marcia Dawkins, Ph.D., for the keynote workshop, Building Your Fortress of Fortitude, which focuses on the art of storytelling as a powerful tool for building resilience, strength and success. This session will demonstrate how personal and organizational stories can be used to navigate adversity, inspire growth and create meaningful impact. Through a human-centered approach, participants will gain practical techniques for using storytelling to practice resilience, sharpen self-awareness, cultivate confidence and foster connection in both professional and personal settings.

• Marcia Dawkins, Ph.D., Author, Speaker and Creative Consultant

Session Time: 10:30 am – 12:30 pm

Join Paragon Performance Evolution for a workshop on Optimal Leadership & Growth Mindset, where we will explore challenges of leading in a world that changes faster than most are equipped to navigate. This session underscores the need to optimize our “human operating system” through enhanced self-awareness and emotional regulation. By cultivating a more balanced and aware state, we can tap into our full potential, embody the qualities necessary to thrive and effectively guide our teams through complexity and change. This growth is crucial for driving sustainable success in leadership and organizational performance. And on a personal level, proven techniques will be shared to decrease stress and anxiety, increase mental clarity and decision making, create deeper interpersonal connections and optimize communication.

• Jeff Benton, Founder & CEO, Paragon Performance Evolution
• Brett Weinroth, Partner & Managing Director, Paragon Performance Evolution

Download The WICT Network Member App, Available on All Mobile Devices

The WICT Network Member App

Unlock the full potential of The WICT Network with our cutting-edge member app, now available for download on all major mobile operating systems. Created to amplify the strength of our network, the app empowers members spanning the media, entertainment, and technology sectors to foster powerful connections with their peers on a global scale.

The app has several features designed to help you easily form connections and make the most of your member benefits, including access to our Events & Registration, Webinars, Calendar, Groups and other Resources.

Follow @WICTHQ on social media (we’re active on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram) for the latest news on gender diversity in the workplace, leadership development and productivity tips, programming updates, and diversity, equity and inclusion data.

Below are sample posts from LinkedIn. Make sure to follow us online for more valuable tips and updates.