2025 Annual Leadership Summit: Female Firsts-Dames of the Decade

Description

The Mason Deerfield Chamber, in collaboration with the Women Business Leaders MADE Advisory Council, is committed to fostering equal representation in leadership positions throughout the MADE region. We aim to provide both personal inspiration and practical application to individuals at all stages of their career and personal growth. One of our annual events is the Leadership Summit, where we invite regional speakers to share their insights and create an experience filled with inspiration, networking, and rejuvenation.
 
The 2025 Leadership Summit is a half-day event of speakers and roundtable discussions that will focus on the theme of "Female Firsts – Dames of the Decade," spotlighting extraordinary leaders breaking barriers and paving the way for the next generation. This year’s summit will feature an exclusive keynote panel of Greater Cincinnati’s top female news anchors, including: Sheila Gray-WKRC, Sheree Paolello-WLWT, Kelly Rippin-WLWT and Jessica Schmidt-FOX19; moderated by Evan Millward. The event will also include MADE Chamber's President & CEO, Sherry Taylor as the featured speaker.

Plus, need a Fresh Headshot? We’re excited to have Jenna Beers from Photography by Jenna offering professional headshots throughout the day at a special discounted rate—just $49 (regularly $99)! Update your professional look while networking and gaining leadership insights.

Overall, participants can expect to leave feeling inspired and equipped with practical strategies. They will also have the chance to expand their professional networks and foster a sense of unity and collaboration within the MADE community. A brunch will be provided to all attendees. All are welcome to attend!
 

Meet the Summit Panelists

Sheila Gray WKRC Panelist	Sheree Paolello WLWT Panelist	Kelly Rippin WLWT Panelist	Jessica Schmidt FOX19 Panelist	Evan Millward Anchor Moderator

 

Meet the Summit Featured Speakers

Sherry Taylor
President & CEO
Mason Deerfield Chamber

Sherry Taylor embodies the spirit of transformative leadership and community empowerment, making her the ideal keynote speaker for the 2025 Leadership Summit. Since taking the helm in 2014, Sherry has redefined the Chamber’s mission, vision, and strategic initiatives, leading a powerful rebrand that brought clarity, purpose, and growth to the MADE region. Her leadership during challenging times has fortified the Chamber’s financial stability, strengthened community engagement, and fostered a shared vision for a prosperous future.
 

Ashley Smithson
Sous Chef
Great Wolf Lodge

Attendees will enjoy a special cooking demonstration by Chef Ashley Smithson of Great Wolf Lodge! With a deep-rooted passion for the culinary arts, Chef Ashley’s journey began on local farms and in small eateries, leading her to earn a Culinary Arts degree from the Art Institute of Cincinnati. Over the past decade, she has honed her craft at Great Wolf Lodge, rising from a line-level employee to Sous Chef. Recognized as the 2024 Leader of the Year, she continues to bring joy to guests through creative and memorable culinary experiences.