2026 New Memphis Leadership Summit

Are you a professional looking to take your leadership skills to the next level? Join New Memphis at the premiere leadership conference for professionals in every sector - corporate, nonprofit, medical, and more. The New Memphis Leadership Summit, presented by Varsity Spirit, is designed with your growth in mind, and breakout sessions will provide unique and interactive sessions tailored to your level of experience as an emerging or existing leader.

Expert facilitators in a range of fields will guide you through sessions to strengthen your personal and professional leadership skills, broaden your perspectives, and deepen your connection with the communities you serve and support.

This event is sponsored by: Varsity Spirit, Sylvamo, Kroger, Pinnacle Bank, AAON, Vaco, Barr Brands, and Malasri Engineering

TICKETS:

General Admission Pricing | July 1 - August 2, 2026

• General Admission Individuals: $195
• General Admission Groups (5+): $185 / per person
• General Admission Table (10): $1,750

Late Registration Pricing | August 3 - August 10, 2026

• General Admission Individuals: $205
• General Admission Groups (5+): $195 / per person

Table sales end August 7, 2026 at 5:00 CST.

If you need to pay via check or electronic wire, please contact Kim Rodriguez at [email protected] for an invoice.

KEYNOTE DETAILS:

From Good to Great with Willie Spears

What Memphians can do today for themselves, their workplaces, and their city

Description:
What does wearing an apron have to do with leadership, service, and the future of Memphis? In this inspiring keynote, acclaimed author and motivational speaker, Willie Spears, unlocks the concept of “wearing an apron instead of a bib.” He empowers Memphians to move from observation to ownership while embracing the idea that meaningful change begins with individual action, daily commitment, and service to others. Attendees will explore how small daily actions — showing up, supporting others, mentoring, volunteering, collaborating, and leading with purpose — create long-term impact for neighborhoods, families, and the city as a whole.

This keynote encourages attendees to shift from waiting to be served to actively serving their community. Through principles of servant leadership, personal responsibility, and community engagement, participants will be inspired to ask themselves: “What can I do to create change?” and then make their communities better by tying on their metaphorical aprons.

SESSION DETAILS:

This year's event will feature an exceptional lineup of facilitators leading breakout sessions that will tackle timely topics and share innovative approaches to help leaders continue growing in their roles, organizations, and the community. The sessions below are designed to help you develop your leadership skills and will empower you to activate your skills as you learn about the crucial issues our city faces. Explore the session topics and facilitators here.

THINGS TO KNOW:

• Doors open at 8:00am. Summit begins promptly at 8:30am.
• Food and beverages will be available throughout the day and are included with your registration. Additional food and beverage can be purchased individually from the University Center.
• Event location: The University Center at the University of Memphis (499 University Street, Memphis, TN 38152)
• Free parking is available in the Zach Curlin Parking Garage (505 Zach H Curlin St, Memphis, TN 38111)
• Seating: Open seating on a first come, first served basis unless a table has been purchased.
• All entrants must have a ticket.
• No outside professional photography, video, or audio recording equipment allowed.