Northwestern to host leadership conference

A Northwestern Leadership Series professional development conference, Courageous Communication, will be held on the campus of Northwestern College Aug. 10 through 12. Keynote speakers for the conference—communications director and former news anchor Kristie VerMulm and acclaimed author and speaker V.J. Smith—will challenge attendees to lead better through bold, inspiring communication.

VerMulm, a former KTIV-Sioux City news anchor, will open the conference the evening of Monday, Aug. 10. She earned several Emmy Awards and broadcasting honors, including Overall Excellence in Anchoring and Reporting. She is currently the director of communications for United Real Estate Solutions.

Smith will speak on Wednesday, Aug. 12. He is the author of a best-selling book, “The Richest Man in Town,” about his relationship with a Walmart greeter whose approach to his circumstances changed Smith’s life. Smith travels the country, making more than 100 speaking appearances each year.

During the conference, attendees can choose among workshops by experts on powerful public speaking, conflict resolution, negotiating toward your goals, and using technology and remote communication effectively.

The conference is sponsored by Northwestern College Graduate School & Adult Learning and the college’s Franken Leadership Center in partnership with Pizza Ranch. The professional development opportunity is for those who want to develop their skills in negotiation, conflict resolution, remote communication and public speaking.

Conference registration is open until July 27; the Courageous Communication fee is $400 until July 15 and $450 starting July 16. Northwestern College alumni can attend the conference at a discounted rate of $350. Visit www.nwciowa.edu/lead for conference details and to register.