On the afternoon of April 3, 2025, the historic Carolands Chateau in Hillsborough was buzzing as we hosted this timely leadership program: “LEAD 2025: Redefining Leadership in a Changing World.”

We were delighted to welcome attendees to this highly anticipated event, many of whom were new to the Leadership Council SMC community. Guests arrived early to connect and mingle in the lovely Chateau, and they filled the ballroom when LEAD 2025 officially began at 1:30 pm. 

LEAD 2025 met the moment—a time when connected, impactful local leadership is more important than ever. The program opened with the LEAD 2025 VIDEO highlighting inspiring, real-world impacts from Leadership Council SMC’s first four years. Margi Power and Kaarin Hardy, Leadership Council SMC Co-Presidents, welcomed our guests, described our Immersion Programs, and thanked our supporters, partners, alumni, and extended community.

Redefining Leadership in a Changing World

LEAD 2025 was an exceptional and timely professional development opportunity that featured thought-provoking and engaging sessions from distinguished speakers Chris Ernst, Chief Learning Officer at Workday, and Kishshana Palmer, CEO of ManageMint, Inc., followed by a “Fireside Chat” moderated by Tim Russell, Regional Director, Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center, Leadership Council SMC Board Member, and Leadership CORPS Class of 2022 alumnus. This wonderful afternoon continued for VIP ticket holders who joined the speakers at a champagne reception, book signing, and guided tours of the beautiful Carolands Chateau.

Chris Ernst captured the audience’s attention with powerful imagery and his warm, interactive presenting style. Drawing on his book, Boundary Spanning Leadership, his presentation asked attendees to think about boundaries in their work and their lives, and to consider how, as leaders, they could most effectively use their team’s talents and abilities to generate innovative and inspiring results. His practical suggestions centered around six key practices that shift rigid boundaries into frontiers of breakthrough ideas and solutions.

Kishshana Palmer brought her dynamic energy to LEAD 2025. As a speaker, trainer, and coach with more than 20 years of experience, Kishshana shared insights from her recent book, Busy Is a Four-Letter Word. She brought her dynamic and captivating style, and through anecdotes from her own life, provided wisdom on the systems and beliefs that hinder our personal balance and effectiveness. She offered practical guidance on ways to lead that maximize personal impact without burnout for yourself or your team. 

“Fireside Chat” Addressed Leadership in Today’s Climate of Urgency

Following the presentations, Tim Russell moderated a Fireside Chat, “Leadership in Turbulent Times,” which wove the afternoon together and focused on the immediate need leaders have to effect positive change for their organizations and communities. Key topics included leading through uncertainty, building psychologically safe spaces and resilient teams, and essential practices that help leaders build wellness practices for themselves and their teams before a crisis occurs. 

Making a Difference for San Mateo County Leaders

LaSaundra Gutter, Leadership Council SMC Leadership CORPS Class of 2025 alumna, had this to say about LEAD 2025: “This leadership development event was nothing short of inspiring. The speakers were absolute 10s—engaging, insightful, and genuinely passionate about the future of leadership.”

In addition to fostering meaningful connections and open dialogues about leadership, resilience, and growth, LEAD 2025 was also a fundraiser to support the Leadership Council’s scholarship efforts. It concluded with heartfelt gratitude and emphasis on the critical role that community support plays in facilitating cross-sector, countywide leadership development. 

Kaarin Hardy, Leadership Council SMC Co-President shared, 

“Over 40% of our Leadership Immersion Program participants receive scholarships. Your support directly funds those scholarships, making it possible for talented leaders to join our programs—leaders who will strengthen San Mateo County, tackle its toughest challenges, and create lasting impact. Thank you for being a part of LEAD 2025, and for believing in us. We are grateful for your support.”

LaSaundra added, 

“This event felt so impactful. In addition to the program, it was about investing in future leaders who may not otherwise have access to immersive, leadership development opportunities like Leadership CORPS and the Emerging Leaders Program. I am grateful to be part of this community that champions growth, transformation, and connection.”

With Gratitude

Special thanks to those who helped make "LEAD 2025" possible:

• Franklin Templeton, Jenny Johnson, CEO of Franklin Templeton, and Tiffany Hong, SVP and Chief Administrative Officer 
• Mavie Mendelson, Executive Director, Carolands Foundation, and her staff including Susan, Willie, and Madina, and docent Tom Larson
• Jack Tang and The Pixelmakers 
• Heritage Bank of Commerce
• Jason Ting, Wealth Management Advisor, Ting & Associates at Merrill Lynch
• Sterrin Bird, Community Leader
• Vendors including Allegra Entertainment & Events, Arguello Catering, Rustic Postres, Abbey Party Rents, and All About Parking
• Volunteers including Leadership Council SMC board members, Immersion Program alumni, and current participants