Springfield Chamber Highlights Innovation at 2024 Leadership Summit
On November 12, the Springfield Area Chamber of Commerce welcomed 140 attendees to the Holiday Inn Express for an unforgettable day of professional growth and leadership development. The Sixth Annual Leadership Summit, themed Beyond Limits: Embody Innovation, inspired attendees to push beyond boundaries and embrace innovation in their leadership journeys.
The day’s program was thoughtfully designed to challenge and empower local leaders with fresh insights, practical tools, and meaningful connections. From the Chamber’s welcoming remarks to the closing cocktail reception, the 2024 Summit delivered an exceptional experience that underscored the importance of innovation in leadership and organizational excellence.
Program Highlights
The morning began with an inspiring keynote address by Dave Moss, Executive Director of the Eugene Symphony. Titled In Perfect Harmony: The Rhythms of Innovation, Moss’ presentation included a live performance by students from the University of Oregon. Moss explored how the creative principles that drive musicians also fuel successful businesses. With real world examples and powerful musical interludes, this session revealed how to harness the rhythm of creativity to drive meaningful innovation and long-lasting success.
Following this, Michael Alvarado of Servicemen Painting shared actionable strategies for proper goal setting, equipping attendees with tools to achieve success through clear, attainable objectives.
The first breakout sessions gave participants the option to explore emerging trends in leadership. Steve Cary of Many Mega led a session on Unleashing AI, offering practical insights on integrating artificial intelligence into business processes. In a second breakout room, two representatives from Rexius, Jason Giles and Thomas Howard, shared the company’s approach to fostering innovation within a century-old business model. This breakout contained an informative and engaging Q&A session and was facilitated by Deborah Creager of Chambers Construction.
After a refreshing lunch provided by Sheild Catering, Dan Collins, PhD with the Lane Small Business Development Center kicked off the afternoon with a presentation on The Strategic Power of Pausing. His session emphasized how intentional breaks can foster clarity, focus, and innovation. Andrew Robinson of GiANT Worldwide then captivated the audience with his talk, Into Thin Air, blending storytelling and leadership strategies as he unearthed the hidden signs of mediocrity, and what can we do to root it out of our lives, organizations, and community.
The schedule concluded with a keynote address by Maria Guy, also of GiANT Worldwide, who delivered Beyond Limits. Her powerful message inspired attendees to reimagine their potential as leaders; to understand what a 100X Leader is; and what it takes to become this kind of leader to your team and members.
Attendees were treated to a networking happy hour at the conclusion of the program.
Community Collaboration and Gratitude
The success of the 2024 Leadership Summit would not have been possible without the generous support of many program sponsors, including presenting sponsor Kaiser Permanente. Additional thanks go to McKenzie-Willamette Medical Center, Umpqua Bank, Springfield Greeters, Chambers Construction, Summit Bank, Rexius Forest By-Products, Kelly’s Closets, Law Offices of Brian Thompson, Made By You, Oak Hill School, OCCU, Rise & Shine, Visiting Angels, and Willamalane Park & Recreation District.
Special thanks to an incredible steering committee: Megan Burrows (Chair), Umpqua Bank; Tab Davis, Bicoastal Media; Cory Burket, Kelly’s Closets; Kasandra Larsen, First Interstate Bank; Nick Nelson, Keller Williams Realty; Natalie Rae, Sheild Catering; Andrew Robinson, GiANT Worldwide; Storm Kennedy, Actor/Public Speaker; as well as Chamber staff M.A. Reilly, Paige Walters, and Adam Tamarkin.
Special thanks to Anthony Sabin and the team at the Holiday Inn Express Eugene-Springfield, as well as the Chamber’s dedicated volunteers who ensured the day ran seamlessly; to Summit emcee Storm Kennedy, for keeping the day’s momentum going; and to our partners who provided exceptional catering and refreshments, including Falling Sky Brewing, Main St. Coffee Co., Mr. Ice Cream, and Sheild Catering.
More About the Leadership Summit
The Springfield Chamber’s Leadership Summit has grown into one of the most anticipated Chamber events of the year, reflecting the Springfield community’s commitment to professional growth and innovation. The conversations and connections made during the Summit serve as a testament to the strength and potential of Springfield’s business community. We look forward to continuing this tradition in 2025 and invite you to join us in setting a new standard of excellence in leadership. Stay connected with the Chamber for updates on next year’s program and other opportunities to advance your leadership journey.
Thank you to all who participated in making the 2024 Leadership Summit an inspiring and impactful event! For sponsorship inquiries or more information, contact Mary Ann Reilly at maryann@springfield-chamber.org or call 541-746-1651.
