21st Annual Women's Leadership Conference, Presented by Catawba Valley Health System
November 19, 2026
8:00 am-4:00 pm
Hickory Metro Convention Center

View and download the 2026 Conference Itinerary and 2026 Speaker Lineup 

For more than two decades, the Women's Leadership Conference has served as a catalyst for growth, connection, and positive change. Bringing together leaders, emerging professionals, and allies from across the region, the conference creates space for learning, collaboration, and meaningful dialogue.

Attendees gain fresh perspectives, actionable leadership tools, and valuable relationships that extend far beyond the event itself. Through engaging speakers, shared experiences, and authentic conversations, participants are inspired to lead with confidence and create impact within their organizations and communities. Whether you're looking to elevate your career, strengthen your organization, or connect with a community of changemakers, the Women's Leadership Conference offers an experience designed to inspire action, foster opportunity, and drive lasting success.

Join us and be part of a dynamic network committed to advancing leadership, inclusion, and growth throughout our region.

Important Dates:

Registration will open as outlined below or until the event reaches capacity, whichever comes first.  Payment by credit card will include a convenience fee. 

August 21 - VIP Package availability ends - Chamber Partners only 

September 10-18 - Partner Priority online registration - Chamber Partners only, based on availability 

September 28-October 9 - General online registration - Based on availability 

October 9 - Registration deadline or when event reaches capacity, whichever comes first 

October 9 - Cancellation deadline / Names and emails due for all attendees 

October 23 - Substitution deadline 
Sponsor* Opportunities:

Elevate your brand and position your organization in front of a prestigious audience of business leaders, professionals, and entrepreneurs spanning the region. Interested in a sponsorship opportunity? Allow us the privilege of meeting with you one-on-one. During the meeting, our goal is to understand your organization's marketing and community engagement objectives, aligning a sponsorship package to your goals with benefits and privileges. To learn more, reach out to Nathan Cooley, Partner Recruitment & Sponsorship Manager, today. Opportunities are reserved on a first come basis with a commitment deadline is July 31.

Sponsor* Recognition & Appreciation: 

Presenting Sponsor: Catawba Valley Health System 

Titanium Sponsors: Appalachian State University, Catawba Valley Health System, Corning Optical Communications, LLC, Frye Regional Medical Center, Pepsi-Cola Bottling Company, Inc., Richey May North Carolina 

Leadership Impact Sponsor: Lenoir-Rhyne University

Leadership Excellence Sponsor: Appalachian State University, Hickory Crawdads

Leadership Advocate Sponsor: Frye Regional Medical Center 

Experience Center Sponsor: Trinity Village / Trinity Ridge

Wi-Fi Sponsor: Carolina Caring

Event Signage Sponsor: First Citizens Bank

Shop Local Marketplace Sponsor: The Greens at Hickory, The Greens at Viewmont, Valley Nursing & Rehabilitation Center

Stage Sponsor: UNC Health Caldwell

Videography Sponsor: UNC Health Blue Ridge

Photo Wall Sponsor: Strategic Wellness Center

Breakout Session Sponsors: A Woman's View, Catawba Valley Insurance Agency, CommScope, Nova Credit Union, Patrick, Harper & Dixon, LLP, Via Health Partners, YMCA of Catawba Valley

Breakout Session Hallway Sponsor: ESP, LLC

VIP Package Sponsors: Brookdale Falling Creek, Fairfield by Marriott, Home Instead Hickory, Leigh Ashton Aesthetics, Physician's Plan Weight Loss & Wellness, Skyline National Bank, Top Flite Home Loans, Inc.

Mother's Lounge Sponsor: Catawba County United Way

Exhibitors: AFC Urgent Care, Emerald Health DPC and Aesthetics, Golden Corral, MBA Roofing

Shop Local Vendors: 2 Pink Magnolias, Lily Thomas Boutique

*Sponsorship is a privilege of partnership with The Chamber of Catawba County