2025 RMB CONFERENCE
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MEET OUR SPEAKERS
Wendy Davidson
"The Journey to Purpose-Driven Leadership"
Saturday 3:10 pm Keynote Speaker
Careers are often called a “marathon, not a sprint”—but they don’t have to be something to simply endure. In this keynote, Wendy shares how intentional connections aligned with both company and personal purpose can energize your journey. Drawing on decades of leadership across global organizations and boards, she offers practical insights and real-world strategies that attendees can apply immediately to lead with greater clarity, impact, and meaning.
Wendy Davidson brings over 25 years of global leadership in the consumer-packaged goods industry to her role as a purpose-driven business leader and keynote speaker. Most recently, she served as CEO and Board Director of The Hain Celestial Group, the $1.7B health and wellness company behind brands like Celestial Seasonings®, Garden Veggie Snacks™, and Earth’s Best®.
Known for her strategic vision and passion for building high-performing teams, Wendy has held executive roles at Glanbia Performance Nutrition, Kellogg’s, McCormick, and Tyson Foods. She currently serves on the boards of First Horizon Corporation and Ronald McDonald House Charities Global and is an active member of The Chicago Network and the Economic Club of Chicago.
Lawrence Brown
"Navigating the Generational Shift"
Sunday 9:30 am Keynote speaker
This interactive session challenges common assumptions about generational conflict in the workplace and reframes it as an opportunity for connection, collaboration, and growth. Using storytelling rooted in the StoryBrand model, participants will be placed at the center of the narrative—developing their own “Main Character Energy” (MCE) as they explore how to improve cross-generational communication, set clear expectations, and foster a culture of understanding. Attendees will walk away with practical tools, fresh perspectives, and a renewed appreciation for the strengths every generation brings to the table.
Lawrence Brown (LB) is a leadership development expert, executive coach, and speaker who serves as Director of the MBA Program at Elmhurst University and CEO of We Coach Executives, LLC. With a passion for developing inclusive leaders, LB brings a wealth of experience from his work with Fortune 500 companies, universities, nonprofits, and public agencies.
A former corporate leader with nearly 15 years at Allstate Insurance, LB has championed employee resource groups and fostered cultures of belonging. He currently holds the Howard L. Willett, Jr. Distinguished Chair for Research in Business and Economics at Elmhurst University, where he teaches leadership, management, and marketing. He is pursuing a PhD in Global Leadership, with a research focus on gender bias in generative AI.
Erin Ramirez
"Using Adaptability to Strengthen Your Business and Your Community"
Saturday 9:30 am Keynote Speaker
In today’s fast-changing world, your Adaptability Quotient (AQ) may matter more than your IQ. Whether you're leading a team or running solo, success depends on how quickly and confidently you adapt—without losing sight of what matters most. This session offers practical tools, mindset shifts, and fresh perspectives to help you stay steady amid change and turn the unexpected into opportunity. Adaptability isn’t optional—it’s essential to getting ahead.
Erin Ramirez is the founder and CEO of Real Change Studio and a recognized expert in organizational change and industrial-organizational psychology. With experience ranging from small nonprofits to Fortune 500 companies, she helps leaders turn bold visions into practical strategies that drive lasting change and measurable results.
Formerly the Head of Enterprise Change Readiness at a global Fortune 500 company, Erin brings a deep understanding of how to align strategy, people, and outcomes. A Nobel Peace Prize Scholar and committed Rotarian, she is passionate about building stronger organizations and communities through purposeful change.
Craig Novorr
"Growing Your Network Through Community Impact"
Saturday 1:00 pm Keynote Speaker
Discover how to grow your leadership, expand your influence, and make a meaningful impact through community involvement and purposeful networking. Drawing on decades of experience serving on boards, mentoring entrepreneurs, and leading Rotary, this keynote explores the difference between networking and selling, how to lead effectively, and the unique roles of friend, advocate, coach, and mentor. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to strengthen their leadership, connect with intention—both online and in person—and build lasting professional relationships that matter
Craig Norvorr brings more than 28 years of leadership in the investment industry to his role as founder and owner of Paragon Capital Management. For the past 18 years, he has guided clients with a steady hand and a commitment to values-based financial stewardship.
A longtime Rotarian and community leader, Craig made history as the first person to serve two consecutive terms as President of the Overland Park Rotary Club. He mentors emerging business leaders through the Helzberg Entrepreneur Mentoring Program and has served on numerous nonprofit boards. A 16-time Five Star Wealth Manager, Craig is widely recognized for his integrity, expertise, and dedication to service.
Michael Shoultz, PhD
Chair, RMB Midwest Conference - Program Development Committee
Michael Shoultz brings a passion for purpose-driven leadership and decades of experience in personal and professional development to his role as Chair of the Program Development Committee for the Rotary Means Business Midwest Conference. As a Human Potential Architect and founder of Spirit Rising Coaching, Michael specializes in helping individuals and teams align mindset, behavior, and goals to achieve intentional growth.
A longtime Rotarian and dedicated community builder, Michael is known for his ability to create meaningful, engaging experiences that connect people and inspire action. In his leadership role for this year’s conference, he has overseen the selection and development of keynote and breakout session programming, ensuring a dynamic and relevant experience for all attendees.
Nicole Wozniak
Chair, RMB Midwest Conference – Sponsorships, Partners and External Communication Committees
Nicole Wozniak is a seasoned financial services professional known for her strategic thinking, vibrant energy, and people-first approach. With a strong background in client service and business development, she helps businesses of all sizes design customized solutions that fuel growth, increase efficiency, and reduce costs.
Nicole thrives on building lasting relationships and brings a personal touch to every professional interaction. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new restaurants, cheering on her favorite sports teams, and connecting with others in both professional and social circles. Her blend of expertise and approachability makes her a trusted partner and an engaging presence wherever she goes.