Join Us May 15, 2026

Crosswalk Conference Center
1607 Troup Highway
Tyler, TX 75701

Our Keynote Speaker

Dr. Laura Thiess

Dr. Laura Loya Thiess is the English Language Learner (ELL) Program Manager for Stride K12, a virtual public school system in Texas, where she leads a team of more than 75 educators and specialists and supports over 5,000 multilingual students statewide. With 29 years of experience in education, she has served as a classroom teacher, principal, district executive leader, and consultant.

A former immigrant who learned English through the public school system, Dr. Thiess brings both personal and professional passion to her work in second language acquisition, leadership development, and culturally responsive practices. She holds a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership and an Educational Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction.

Dr. Thiess is the Founder and CEO of Lead Loud Consulting, LLC, providing leadership training and culturally responsive professional development. A founding member and former Acting President of the Hispanic Professionals Association of Tyler, she is honored to return as the keynote speaker for the 7th Annual East Texas Leadership Summit.

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Empower, Connect, Transform
Your Journey at the East Texas Leadership Summit

Networking and Community Building

2. Professional Growth and Development

3. Inspiration and Empowerment

The East Texas Leadership Summit integrates strategic networking, professional development, and executive-level inspiration into one comprehensive experience. Attendees engage with a diverse cross-sector network of professionals and community leaders, fostering meaningful relationships and collaborative partnerships. Through expert-led sessions and dynamic discussions, participants gain actionable insights, advanced leadership strategies, and forward-thinking solutions to today’s complex challenges. More than a conference, the summit serves as a catalyst for elevated performance, equipping leaders to expand their influence and drive measurable impact within their organizations and across the East Texas community.

Thank you to our event sponsor

Thank you to our program sponsor

We are so excited to network with YOU!

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