Throughout the years

Kimberly B. Lewis, President & CEO Kimberly B. Lewis, the President and CEO of Goodwill Industries of East Texas as more than 24 years of nonprofit experience. She is also a bestselling author, speaker, consultant, executive coach, and frequent contributor of Forbes Magazine. As an innovative leader she has been recognized for her work by Goodwill Industries International, the National Disability Institute, the Center for Effective Philanthropy, Barron's, the Chronicle of Philanthropy and others. Session: Good, Better, Best: Creating a Sustainable Future The founder of Goodwill Industries, Edgar J. Helms proclaimed over 100 years ago that "No matter what difficulties or problems you face...the future is in your hands. This presentation will engage attendees in global sustainable textile recycling plans and the lessons leaders can learn from the recycling of things and careers.

Julie V. Philley, MD, Executive Vice President of Health Affairs for the Health Science Center at The University of Texas at Tyler Julie V. Philley, MD is the Executive Vice President of Health Affairs for the Health Science Center at The University of Texas at Tyler. She has oversight of all things related to education and health, which includes the School of Medicine, School of Nursing, School of Health Professions and the Fisch College of Pharmacy. She is also board-certified in internal medicine, critical care medicine, and pulmonary disease. Session: Advanced Practice in Health Care Highlighting the accomplishments of the Health Affairs programs at the University of Texas at Tyler, including a successful first year of the UT Tyler School of Medicine, continued expansion of the School of Nursing, and notable accomplishments within the Fisch College of Pharmacy. Discussion on new degree programs and additions to the School of Health Professions as well as the introduction of innovative healthcare MBA programs at the Soules College of Business.

Ana Barnson, MA, NCC, LPC-S EMDR Certified Therapist Ana is a bilingual Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor and EMDR-certified practitioner with over a decade of experience in trauma recovery and resilience-building. Passionate about leadership and growth, she empowers individuals through innovative approaches that foster strength and transformation. Based in East Texas and originally from Bogotá, Colombia, Ana also mentors emerging professionals, equipping them with the skills to lead with confidence and impact. Session: Empowered Leadership: Harnessing Self-Compassion to Unlock Your Greatest Potential A truly empowered leader embraces self-compassion as a strength, recognizing that growth comes from learning, not perfection. By leading with emotional intelligence and resilience, they create a culture of psychological safety where innovation and collaboration thrive. When leaders extend the same kindness to themselves as they do to others, they unlock not only their own potential but also inspire those around them to rise to new heights. Transforming tomorrow starts with leaders who lead with courage, authenticity, and a commitment to continuous growth.