As the holiday season approaches, many struggle to balance work, family, and endless tasks, often feeling overwhelmed and disorganized. While responsibility and dependability are crucial skills, few of us have formal training in mastering them, leading to reliance on complex systems that add to the stress. This session will focus on simplifying life during the holiday rush by creating easy routines and habits to stay organized and reduce stress. Learn how to align your calendar, to-do list, and priorities without worrying about missed deadlines or commitments. Join us to discover strategies for surviving the holidays with less stress and more ease! This session will be facilitated by Kristin Economos, Senior Director, Adams Leadership Institute at Drake University.

Your brand’s audience is increasingly interconnected through technology, making them almost cyborg-like in their digital engagement. Join Drake alum Greg Swan for an insightful session on the latest trends in digital, social, A.I., and emerging technologies shaping marketing today. Discover future-proofed strategies to reach and engage these tech-fueled audiences effectively. Come ready with questions and get actionable insights for the future of marketing. Note: This session is designed for humans, but robots are welcome too!

Join us for a conversation with Carrie Muskat, JO'78, a veteran sportswriter with over three decades of experience, including 18 years as the MLB.com beat writer for the Chicago Cubs. From covering the Cubs’ historic 2016 World Series victory to witnessing two no-hitters, Carrie brings a wealth of knowledge and firsthand stories from the world of baseball. Her career highlights include writing for major outlets like USA Today, the Chicago Tribune, and the Associated Press, and covering iconic moments such as Michael Jordan’s switch to baseball and Sammy Sosa’s return to the Dominican Republic.

In this session, Carrie shared her personal journey, offering invaluable insights into the life of a sports journalist. You’ll hear behind-the-scenes stories from her time covering the Cubs 24/7, learn about reporting from the field during major events like the 2001 World Series, and gain tips for building a successful journalism career. Whether you’re an aspiring sportswriter, a fan of baseball, or someone who loves compelling storytelling, this session is a must-attend.