Leading Ladies' Panel Series Events

GOAL: Inspire success, build community, and celebrate women in leadership—while giving back through impactful, purpose-driven experiences.

You're Invited

Join us for the return of our Leading Ladies Luncheon

Big Hats. Big hearts. Big Impact

The Leading Ladies Luncheon is a signature celebration honoring women who lead with purpose, passion, and impact.

Inspired by the elegance of the Kentucky Derby, this event brings together leaders and changemakers for an afternoon of connection and recognition. As part of our Celebrating 10 campaign, the luncheon supports outreach efforts benefiting schools in Chicago, Houston, and Milwaukee. Join us to toast our 10-year anniversary and commitment to uplifting women and children.

Sunday, April 26th

12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.
• Doors Open at 11 am. Event will start promptly at 12 pm
• Kentucky Derby Chic Attire Requested

Hilton Oak Brook Hills Resort & Conference Center

Oak Brook, Illinois
• Complimentary On-site Parking Available

Let's Celebrate our 2026 Honorees!

Celebrate the incredible women who are leading, inspiring and making a lasting impact in our communities.

Varsha Chandramouli

Chief Medical Officer
Molina Healthcare of Illinois

Caroleann Gallagher

Partner
Coogan Gallagher, P.C.

Keisha Parker

Vice President
ComEd

Jess Murray

Regional Vice President
Meijer

Corliss Garner

Chief Diversity Equity & Inclusion Officer
Old National Bank

Lindsey Townsley Birdsall

Senior Director of
Marketing & Creative

Wantable

Katina Shaw

Anchor / Reporter / Host
Milwaukee Brewers
Baseball Club

Christine Specht

CEO
Cousins Subs

Debbie Roberts

Former COO
Panera Bread

Tia Ewing

Anchor / Reporter / Host
Fox 32 Chicago

At the Daisie Foundation, we believe that when women uplift one another, communities thrive. Our Leading Ladies Panel Series is hosted in Chicago, Houston, and Milwaukee, bringing together accomplished women from diverse industries to share their journeys, challenges, and successes.

These events create a space where women can learn, connect, and inspire one another, addressing key questions like:

  • How can I uplift and empower other women?
  • How do I give back and create opportunities for others?
  • What does success look like in my industry, and how do I achieve it?
  • How can I balance my personal and professional goals while making a lasting impact?

Our distinguished panelists—leaders in their respective fields—share their expertise and insights to help attendees move forward with confidence.

Let's Break It Down!

What To Expect:

Our Mission is to continue Daisie’s legacy of Empowerment

Past Events from our Leading Ladies Panel Series Initiative

Leading Ladies Panel Series in Chicago, 2025

Leading Ladies Panel Series in Milwaukee, 2024

Leading Ladies Panel Series in Chicago, 2024

Leading Ladies Panel Series in Milwaukee, 2023

Leading Ladies Panel Series, 2023 in Chicago

Leading Ladies Panel Series, 2022 in Milwaukee

Leading Ladies Panel Series, 2022 in Chicago

Leading Ladies Panel Series, 2021 – virtual

Leading Ladies Panel Series, 2020 in Chicago

Leading Ladies Panel Series, 2020 – virtual

Leading Ladies Panel Series, 2019 in Chicago

Join the Movement

The Leading Ladies Panel Series is more than an event—it’s a movement. A movement to uplift, inspire, and connect women across industries, backgrounds, and stages of life.

By joining us, you’re helping create a space where stories are shared, confidence is built, and impact is multiplied. Whether you’re attending, volunteering, or sponsoring, your presence matters.

Here’s how you can participate:

Be part of a community rooted in purpose, powered by connection, and driven by kindness.

Leading Ladies Panel Series

A Glimpse at The Initiative's Legacy

🎉 Press Releases for Leading Ladies Panel Series