2026 Brilliance Summit

November 5, New Vintage Place

Fresh Perspectives. Powerful Connections. Unstoppable Energy.

Experience the 2026 Brilliance Summit—a high-impact afternoon built by women, for women.

On November 5, step out of your daily grind and into a room filled with a truly transformative energy. From connecting with local professional women and learning tangible tips from sessions that don't hold back, to hearing from a brilliant set of speakers, the 2026 West Michigan Woman Brilliance Summit is undeniably the place to be. You'll leave feeling charged with an unmatched electricity and assurance that, yes, you are brilliant.

Inspiration Never Felt This Electric.

Who's In Your Corner?

Making Mentorship Matter

Presented by: Misti Stanton

Success isn't achieved alone, but where do you begin when it comes to finding a mentor or becoming one yourself? Presented by 2026 Brilliant Mentor Misti Stanton, this session will help you create meaningful mentor relationships from day one.

Plot Twist: Failure Is Part Of The Plan

The Power of Failing Forward

Presented by: Christy Buck

Failure isn't the opposite of success—it's often the path that leads there. Dive into risk, resilience, and why your next breakthrough may begin with your next setback with 2024 Legacy of Brilliance recipient Christy Buck.

The Most Important Voice in the Room? Yours.

Advocating for Your Wellness

Presented by: Nisha McKenzie, PA-C, CSC, MSCP, IF

Your health. Your voice. Your power. In this empowering session, join 2022 Brilliant Social Change Agent, Nisha McKenzie, PA-C, CSC, MSCP, IF as she shares tangible tips and tools to become your own best health advocate.

Success Has A Backstory

A Conversation with: Kathleen Vogelsang, CFA, 2026 Woman of the Year

Moderator: Val Lego

What does it really take to build an extraordinary career? Join the 2026 Brilliant Woman of the Year for an intimate conversation about leadership, remarkable resilience, and defining moments that shaped her journey.

What AI Can’t Replicate? You.

Panel Discussion: Maintaining Authenticity in Today’s Digital World

Panelists: Ashley René Lee; Catherine Ripley; Celeste Ross, MBA, SHRM-CP; Latricia Trice

Moderated by: Shelley Irwin

As technology transforms the digital landscape, how can you maintain an authentic voice through it all? Join industry experts as we explore how to preserve creativity, trust, relationships, and personal leadership in today's AI-driven, digital world.

FAQs

TIME — Registration opens at 1:00 p.m. Program will begin at 1:30 p.m. Check in at the registration table on the first floor of New Vintage Place — no physical tickets required.

VENUE — New Vintage Place — 889 Broadway Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504

TICKETING INFO — Sponsors have designated tables; individual ticket holders may choose any table labeled “Open Seating.”

FOOD AND BEVERAGE — Light appetizers provided at the break and reception. One drink ticket included; additional drinks available for purchase.

ATTIRE — Business casual.

GET INVOLVED — Learn more about our Brilliance Summit Ambassador Program.

The event was incredibly well thought out, seamlessly planned, and beautifully executed. Every presenter brought something unique to the table, offering a wide range of topics that added depth and richness to the day. I left feeling both informed and inspired. I especially appreciated how the summit spotlighted local leaders and thoughtfully incorporated community vendors. It’s clear that this summit is already making a meaningful impact, and I’m excited to see how it continues to grow.

2025 Brilliance Summit Attendee