8  ILLINOIS BUSINESS LEADER
CONNECTING
The conference begins with registration and networking at 8:30 a.m., giving 
attendees the opportunity to connect with fellow leaders, entrepreneurs, and 
emerging professionals before the program begins. Welcoming remarks will be 
provided at 9:00 a.m., setting the tone for a day focused on leadership, innovation, 
and personal growth.
	
The opening session, “Innovate & Inspire: Love Your Job – Love Yourself,” 
will be led by Elaine Hand of InnerView, Inc. Her keynote will explore how 
professionals can align purpose, passion, and career fulfillment to build more 
meaningful and sustainable success.
	
Later in the morning, the conference will spotlight the intersection of 
technology and agriculture during a panel discussion developed in collaboration 
with the Illinois Soybean Association. Industry leaders will discuss how innovation 
is transforming modern agriculture and creating new opportunities for women in 
the sector.
	
The agenda also addresses the growing importance of behavioral health in the 
workplace. This discussion will highlight strategies for supporting employee well-
being and building healthier organizational cultures.
Following a networking lunch, the afternoon program will explore artificial 
intelligence in the workplace during “Paving the Way to a Balanced Digital 
Future,” presented by Bev Alfon. The session will examine both the legal and 
practical implications of AI, helping organizations navigate emerging technologies 
responsibly.
	
The final educational session will feature Joan Phillips-Hernandez, dean 
of the College of Business at Northern Illinois University. Her presentation on 
negotiation tactics will provide actionable strategies to help professionals advocate 
for themselves and lead more effectively.
	
Designed to foster professional development, leadership, and meaningful 
connections, the Illinois Chamber’s Women in Business Conference continues to  
be a flagship event celebrating the impact and advancement of women across 
Illinois industries.
JUNE 8, 2026
NIU Center | Naperville, IL
9:00 am to 2:00 pm
CONFERENCE
NINTH  ANNUAL
GROWTH  THROUGH INNOVATION
Women in Business 
Make Plans  
to Join Us!
The Illinois Chamber of 
Commerce will host its 
9th Annual Women in 
Business Conference on 
June 8, 2026, bringing 
together professionals 
from across the state 
for a day of learning, 
networking, and 
inspiration. The event 
will take place at the NIU 
Naperville Conference 
Center in Naperville.

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