Women in Business Conference: Authentic By Design

This one day conference at Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics celebrates the power of showing up fully and authentically as professionals, leaders, and innovators. Each person brings a unique set of strengths to the table—their own superpowers—and when we lean into those gifts with confidence and vulnerability, we create space for deeper collaboration, more inclusive innovation, and lasting impact. By honoring our differences and embracing our shared goals, we strengthen the connections that drive meaningful progress. Together, we are not only reshaping what leadership and business can look like in a rapidly evolving world, but also building a future where authenticity, creativity, and courage are at the heart of every decision.

This one day conference at the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics brings together strong successful women to hear how they face the challenges and achievements that women experience while working in traditionally male-dominated sectors of the business world. Showcasing the success stories of several accomplished leaders, while providing tips and guidance for those wanting to enhance their own journey is the sole purpose of this conference.

Topics such as negotiation tactics, preparation strategies, and navigating power dynamics will inspire engaging and insightful conversations that will continue to strengthen the presence of women in these industries.

Keynote Speaker: Felicia Newhouse | Founder, AI-Powered Women at MIT

Confirmed Panels:

• Authentic Leadership in a Polished World: In today’s fast-paced, highly curated environment, leaders often feel pressure to fit a certain mold. One that’s polished, flawless, and always “on.” But true leadership isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up with honesty, courage, and a willingness to be vulnerable. This panel explores how to embrace your unique strengths and lead with authenticity, while balancing professionalism with truth. Through real-world experiences and practical insights, panelists will share how they’ve navigated the tension between external expectations and internal values, and how authenticity can foster trust, innovation, and more meaningful impact in the workplace and beyond.
• Staying Human in a Tech-Driven World: As artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into business and everyday life, leaders are challenged to leverage its power while remaining grounded, ethical, and human-centered. This panel will explore how AI can be used to support—not replace—our unique strengths and leadership superpowers. Panelists will examine the challenges of bias and equity in AI, as well as highlight tools that enable professionals and organizations to thrive. Attendees will gain practical insights into how to embrace innovation responsibly, ensuring that technology enhances rather than diminishes authenticity, collaboration, and impact.
• Navigating Challenging Conversations with Grace: Difficult conversations are inevitable—but they don’t have to come at the expense of your voice or values. This panel explores how leaders can navigate conflict, negotiate boundaries, and tackle challenging situations with confidence and authenticity. Panelists will share stories and tactics for setting boundaries with compassion, addressing bias and microaggressions, and applying emotional intelligence in high-stakes moments. Attendees will leave with practical insights and real-world examples for turning tough conversations into opportunities for growth, understanding, and stronger relationships.

Workshops:

• Unlock Your Superpower - Help participants identify their unique value, natural talents, and how to bring more of themselves into their work.
• Hands on AI: Aligning Tech with Your Truth:  - This session demystifies AI by giving participants practical experience with tools they can use to support, not override, their voice, creativity, and decision-making. Learn how to integrate data and AI in ways that reflect your personal leadership style, values, and goals.
• Keep Calm & Carry On: Somatic Techniques for Stress Mangement  - Empower participants to understand how stress shows up in the body and equip them with practical, somatic tools they can use in daily life and high-pressure work environments to regulate, reset, and lead from a place of calm clarity and individualized strength.

Your 2026 Women in Business Conference registration includes:

• Admission to keynote presentation and concurrent sessions throughout the day
• Complimentary breakfast and lunch
• Free parking
• Cupcakes and Networking

Brought to you by the UNH Women in Business student organization at the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION: If you are a UNH student, staff and/or faculty member, use the code PAULCOLLEGE2026 in the Apply a Discount field when registering online. UNH alumni use the code WIB50 For colleagues/business groups of three or more participants from the same organization, use code WIB25