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Breakout Session – 10:25am-11:25am

Authentic Leadership - Bringing Your True Self to Your Work

  • Shareka White, Director, EOP Outreach and Success, San Diego State University

Let's discuss authentic leadership and why people feel they cannot bring their true selves to their work. We will go over concepts and debunk the patriarchal ideology of professionalism. This session will also include discussion amongst one another to learn why it is important to take off our masks to be a true leader in any environment. Come prepared to TALK and share your ideas and lived experiences. 

 

Constructing Your Unique Story: Embracing Vulnerability in Interviews

  • Lianne Aratea, Coordinator for New Student and Parent Programs, San Diego State University
  • Makayla Hall, Coordinator of Leadership Programs, CSU San Marcos

The session will explore the practical frameworks for combining personal stories and professional experiences, helping leaders present themselves authentically. Through interactive activities, attendees will learn how to integrate vulnerability into their interview style. Participants will take away individual examples of their own leadership skills and how to discuss them. 

 

First Impressions Matter: Building Connections for Success

  • Deanna Martin Mackey, General Manager, KPBS

Throughout your college journey, you'll have countless opportunities to connect with faculty, staff, peers, and employers—relationships that can shape your future career, professional development, and volunteer opportunities. In this interactive workshop, you'll learn effective networking and relationship-building communication strategies that will help you engage with others, make lasting connections, and follow up to strengthen your professional network and achieve your goals.

 

Leading From Within: Embracing Introverted Leadership

  • Crissy Ramirez, SDSU Connects, San Diego State University

Introverted leaders are often overlooked and undervalued in a society that values extroverted traits such as charisma and outspoken leadership. However, introverts possess unique qualities that create meaningful impact. This session aims to empower introverted students to embrace their natural qualities and lead confidently, providing strategies to build confidence and succeed as effective leaders.

 

Leading with Heart: Harnessing Identity, Empathy and Vulnerability to Lead with Purpose and Action

  • Joyce Noh, Vice President, Elpis Surgical Inc.
  • Danelle Go, Academic and Career Advisor, University of Southern California

What does it mean to lead with empathy, compassion, and authenticity? Discover how identity-driven leadership and the power of vulnerability can inspire trust and collaboration to advance inclusivity and impact. Learn some actionable strategies to integrate empathy and social justice into your leadership, feeling empowered to create meaningful change.

 

Self-Coaching Made Simple: Tools to Help You Best Market Your Leadership

  • Dr. Daniel Davis, Sociology Faculty, San Diego State University

Discover how to harness self-coaching tools to unlock your leadership potential.This hands-on workshop explores the synergy between VIA Character Strengths, ChatGPT, and job crafting. Learn practical strategies to identify, develop, and apply your unique strengths to enhance personal growth and leadership skills.

 

The Blueprint for Emotional Intelligence and Self-Care in Leadership

  • Zohra Razi, Business Technology and Transformation Leader, Student Mentor and Career Coach, San Diego State University Alumni

Join the self-care revolution in this interactive workshop designed to empower purposeful leaders. Discover how to identify emotional intelligence (EQ) triggers, develop positive coping skills, and enhance your work-life balance. Gain actionable strategies, resources, and self-care techniques to thrive in the workplace, including EQ insights and wellness tips for acing interviews. Whether you're a current or aspiring leader, this session equips you to lead with purpose and well-being.