Thriving Through Change: Top 6 Quotable Moments from SLC2025

On March 20, 2025, thousands of leaders gathered in-person in Boston and virtually for the 46th Annual Simmons Leadership Conference (SLC2025), marking another milestone for this transformative event. This year’s theme was all about leading change and thriving in today’s evolving landscape.

Throughout the day, our powerful line-up of keynote speakers inspired attendees to embrace change and thrive in their leadership journeys, while concurrent skill-building sessions provided tools for lasting impact. From dynamic discussions in the Hynes Convention Center to vibrant conversations on our virtual platform, the experience left everyone energized and motivated to lead with purpose.

We’re excited to share the top 6 quotable moments from the 2025 event – insights from visionary leaders like Cynt Marshall, Brooke Shields, Jessica O. Mathews, Nadya Zhexembayeva, Susan MacKenty Brady, and more – that will continue to inspire change and growth.

Tiffany Dufu, a visionary leader and author dedicated to advancing women and girls, moderated a fireside chat with Brooke Shields that was honest and deeply inspiring. Brooke Shields has spent her life in the spotlight—first as a child actor and model, and now as a powerful voice redefining aging for women. Once scrutinized for every move, she now faces a different societal gaze: that of being a “woman of a certain age.” Together, they explored what it means to lead change—dismantling age-related biases and celebrating the power of transformation at every stage of life. Their conversation sparked a dialogue that resonated with women everywhere, encouraging us all to embrace the freedom of writing our next chapter.

Cynthia “Cynt” Marshall, one of the most influential Black business leaders in America, delivered a message of hope and practical guidance for overcoming life’s toughest challenges. Having spent her life defying personal and professional odds, Cynt passionately showed everyone she met how they are uniquely equipped to thrive. With unwavering faith and positivity, Cynt inspired us to believe that even our hardest battles were chosen for us—and that these struggles will ultimately lead us exactly where we are meant to be.

Jessica O. Matthews, inventor and entrepreneur, explored how AI is reshaping work and leveling the playing field. Drawing from her expertise in sustainable tech, she highlighted how AI enables teams to do more with less and challenged audiences to rethink problem-solving in the face of constant change. Jessica offered a clear, actionable framework for integrating AI while staying true to what makes us irreplaceable: creativity, adaptability, and leadership. Attendees left empowered with the confidence to embrace AI, drive innovation, and lead through ongoing transformation.
 

Sophia Kianni shared her journey as a young woman starting two major initiatives and highlighted the ongoing challenges women face in leadership roles. Drawing from her experiences as an Iranian-American social entrepreneur and climate activist, she discussed the importance of representation, mentorship, and how women can support one another in breaking through barriers to build lasting legacies. Audiences left inspired and empowered with practical insights on gender equality, women’s empowerment, and the role of community in overcoming obstacles.
 

Dr. Nadya Zhexembayeva, a renowned resilience expert, shared her insights on how leaders can build resilience in the face of adversity. Her words encouraged attendees to redefine resilience—not as a return to the way things were, but as a progression toward a better, more adaptable future. Her message was a powerful reminder that resilience is a continual process of evolution and growth.
 

Susan MacKenty Brady explored what it means to lead from your “Best Self” through storytelling, humor, and research-backed insight. She defined “best self” as the alignment of strengths, contributions, and joy. The session highlighted recognizing and quieting the internal critic and imposter voices, replacing harshness with empathy – for oneself and others. Emphasizing self-awareness, psychological safety, and worthiness, Susan provided practical tools for staying centered in moments of stress or shame. Leading from your best self isn’t about perfection but presence, connection, and believing you are enough.

SLC2025: Leading Change and Thriving with Purpose

SLC2025 offered attendees an unforgettable experience filled with wisdom, inspiration, and actionable advice from some of the world’s most influential leaders. From personal growth to empathy in leadership, innovation for social good, climate action, and resilience, the conference showcased the diverse ways leadership can create positive change.

These top six quotable moments serve as a reminder that leadership is not just about position or title, but about the impact we make and the values we live by. Let’s carry these powerful words forward as we continue to lead with purpose, inclusion, and integrity.