The University of Findlay’s College of Business continues to champion the Bravely Leading Conference, a dynamic forum designed to empower current and aspiring businesswomen. The event offers powerful learning tools, authentic discussions, and skill-building opportunities, all centered around developing and celebrating female leaders. This year’s conference is scheduled for Friday, September 5, from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. It will be held at the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, in Findlay.

Event Background & Beginnings

Findlay’s College of Business support the annual conference not only through sponsorship, but also with active engagement and leadership. One influential figure behind the event is Kirby Overton, EdD, MBA, dean of the College of Business. She co-founded the Bravely Leading Conference alongside Chloe Crowther, associate director of Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, and Kaylee Schleucher, chief operating officer of Midwest Financial Planning Group and a UF alumna. Together, they launched the conference to foster a welcoming space for networking, learning, and fellowship among women from all backgrounds.

“This conference fosters a safe space for women to learn and grow,” Overton said. “The topics covered are often questions that are asked, but there is rarely an opportunity to take a deep dive into these topics and that’s what makes it unique. We wanted to create a space where there is something for everyone regardless of the stage of life they’re in.”

How UF Supports

Since its launch three years ago, the Bravely Leading Conference has grown into a collaborative effort embraced across the University. In addition to Overton, UF faculty, staff, and leadership are mainstays of the event each year. For 2025, Shayna Pothast, development officer at UF, will serve on a panel discussion, and Lauren Forsythe, PharmD, assistant professor of social and administrative pharmacy, will be speaking during the event. Volunteer UF students will carry out various roles such as introducing speakers and registering attendees. University of Findlay President, Katherine Fell, PhD, will provide a welcome to the conference this year.

Paving the Way Now and Beyond

The conference paves the way for women already leading in business and for those just beginning their journey. One of the ways this is done is through investment to an ongoing scholarship fund. Last year, $1,000 was contributed to the Beth Bradley Heck Memorial Scholarship, with plans to donate a minimum of $5,000 to the scholarship out of the funds raised from this year’s conference.

This scholarship is dedicated to all young women who work hard to fulfill their dreams, show dedication to the task at hand and who show kindness toward all. The applicant must be a female graduate from a Hancock County high school and plan to be a full-time student enrolled at an accredited university or college, majoring in a business-related field.

Student Volunteers Wanted

As in previous years, UF student volunteers are needed to assist with various duties during the conference. Students interested in volunteering are encouraged to contact Overton at overton@findlay.edu. A networking happy hour will follow the main event from 4 to 5 p.m.

Learn More About UF’s College of Business

With its involvement in events like the Bravely Leading Conference, UF’s College of Business continues to shape tomorrow’s business leaders. Explore all the College has to offer by visiting https://www.findlay.edu/business/.

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