The most enduring victories in sport are often the lessons that stay with us long after the final whistle. From resilience and accountability to teamwork, humility, and perseverance, athletics can shape how we navigate both success and adversity. Sport also teaches us how to manage pressure, respond to setbacks, care for our mental well-being, and recognize when strength means asking for support. This conversation explores how the lessons of sport influence leadership, mental health, personal growth, relationships, and success far beyond competition.
Competition has the power to bring people together, challenge perspectives, and foster growth when rooted in respect. In a world often defined by division, this discussion explores how sportsmanship can serve as a model for navigating differences, embracing healthy rivalry, and engaging in meaningful dialogue. Panelists will examine how respect, empathy, and constructive disagreement can strengthen teams, organizations, and communities.
Today’s most effective leaders measure success not just by results, but by the cultures they build, the people they empower, and the opportunities they create. This conversation brings together women CEOs and executives driving innovation and purpose across industries to share insights on leading through growth and change while paving the way for the next generation of leaders.
Panel 2: Champion's Edge – Leadership Under Pressure Presented by Champion's Edge | Moderated by Bonnie Bernstein
Leadership is often defined not by moments of success, but by how we respond to adversity. In this special conversation, Emmy Award-winning broadcaster Bonnie Bernstein brings together several featured guests from her nationally televised ABC series, Champion's Edge, to explore the defining moments that shaped their leadership journeys. Drawing from experiences in sport, business, media, and life, this panel will examine how great leaders navigate pressure, overcome setbacks, embrace vulnerability, and continue to lead with purpose. Through personal stories and candid conversation, participants will gain practical insights into resilience, confidence, decision-making, and the mindset required to thrive when the stakes are highest.
Leadership is not defined by a title—it is reflected in the choices we make, the challenges we overcome, and the impact we have on those around us. In this candid conversation, our featured guest will share lessons learned throughout her personal and professional journey, exploring the importance of authenticity, resilience, confidence, and purpose. From navigating change and overcoming obstacles to balancing ambition with personal fulfillment, this discussion examines what it means to lead in today's world and how leadership evolves throughout different stages of life and career.
Success creates opportunity—but impact comes from how we choose to use it. Whether through athletics, business, education, media, or public service, today's leaders have the ability to inspire change, open doors, and strengthen communities. This conversation explores how women are leveraging their platforms to advocate for important causes, mentor future generations, and create meaningful impact far beyond their professional accomplishments.
Meaningful change begins with people willing to invest in others. Across the globe, women are leading with purpose, building stronger communities through mentorship, advocacy, education, philanthropy, and collaboration. They are creating opportunities, breaking down barriers, and leaving a lasting impact. This conversation explores what it takes to lead across cultures, build thriving communities, and inspire the next generation.
As pioneers within two of America's most recognized military flight demonstration teams, Michelle Curran and Amanda Lee understand the responsibility that comes with representing their country, inspiring future generations, and serving a mission greater than themselves. Through their experiences with the Air Force Thunderbirds and Navy Blue Angels, they have demonstrated the power of teamwork, discipline, service, and leadership under pressure.
This conversation explores what citizenship means in today's world, the importance of leading by example, and how each of us can use our unique talents and opportunities to positively impact others. Their stories serve as a reminder that true leadership is rooted not only in achievement, but in service, purpose, and commitment to community.
We are committed to helping young women and men reach their full potential while giving them the tools they need to succeed. We are thrilled to continue our mentoring program. Mentors and mentees will have the benefit of connecting and building relationships that will last well beyond the event. Don’t miss out on this amazing chance to participate and be a part of this empowering program!
To instill leadership, ethics, confidence, and character-based skills in the mindsets of young women and men by providing inspirational and empowering programming over three days.
The Symposium will provide insight and working knowledge of societal and cultural topics, health, and more presented by women experts, business leaders, and former college and professional athletes.
The Rose Bowl Institute would like to thank all of the following generous donors who have made it possible for us to bring you the 8th Annual Women's Empowerment Symposium.
Shuster Family Foundation
Carolyn Miller
The Larry and Helen Hoag Foundation
Randall Family Foundation
John and Bonnie DeWitt
John and Mary Manuck
Dr. Betty Uribe
The Fitzberg Foundation
Dan and Sarah Rothenberg
Beckie Yon and Jayne Parker
The Christina Mauser Foundation
The Confidence Foundation
Angie and Fritz Miller
James Washington
Shelter 37
Rita and John Canning
Dr. Chris Mattmann