Description

Recognizing the importance of engaging young talent and showcasing the best of our community, we are honored to collaborate with Ash Brokerage, Weigand Construction, Do It Best, Corp, Fort Wayne Metals and Sweetwater Sound to host a unique, half day of professional development designed specifically for college interns in Fort Wayne and Allen County.

In partnership with the Allen County Public Library, this event showcases one of Fort Wayne's favorite spots while providing an excellent way for interns to connect with peers, meet influential community leaders, and immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Fort Wayne.

Please join us for an engaging and insightful afternoon of professional development! This conference is designed to introduce interns to career pathing, innovation, and purpose-driven work but also to highlight the benefits of living and giving in Fort Wayne.

This year’s theme, “Rooted in Impact: Developing Collective Growth in Fort Wayne,” is centered on showcasing the importance of community engagement and the role of nonprofits in shaping a vibrant city.

Schedule:

1:00 PM: Arrival & Check-In

1:20 PM: Company Leader Introductions

1:30 PM: Introduction & Keynote Address

1:50 PM: Announcements

1:55 PM: Transition

2:00 PM: Breakout Session 1:

• Networking with Autumn Demott and Leslee Hill
  • Ready to turn small talk into real opportunities? This interactive session will teach you how to build meaningful connections, even if networking feels awkward or intimidating. You’ll walk away with practical tips, conversation starters, and confidence to navigate any room like a pro. Whether you're introverted, extroverted, or somewhere in between—this session is for you. 
• Ownership with Amy Shurley and Karissa Shepherd
  • Join us for a small group discussion around taking ownership of your internship and community experience. We will walk through potential roadblocks that could prevent us from achieving our desired success and overcoming them to achieve positive impact.

2:45 PM: Break & Network with Local Non-Profits

3:30 PM: Breakout Session 2:

• Foundational Workplace Communication Skills with Nick Craghead & Christian Stout:
  • Ready to ignite your impact? This session isn't just about talking; it's about mastering the crystal-clear signals of verbal and nonverbal communication, unlocking the power of active listening, and becoming a pro at giving and receiving feedback. Prepare to transform your professional interactions!
    
• Innovation with Elaine Jones & Rosalina Perez:
  • Innovation isn’t just for inventors—it starts with how you think. In this hands-on session, you’ll use Post-it notes, visual tools, and creative challenges to unlock your inner problem-solver. Together, we’ll explore how fresh ideas are born, built, and shared—no experience required, just curiosity! Come ready to move, think visually, and collaborate.

4:10 PM: Transition

4:15 PM: Keynote: Metro-Comparison & Budgeting Workshop

4:50 PM: Wrap up & Closing from Company Leaders

5:00 PM: Event concludes

Please bring a notebook and pen & eat lunch prior to attending.