U-Lead Conference 2025

Charles Swinn welcomes attendees to the 13th annual U-Lead conference, highlighting it as a cross-campus collaboration. He mentions participating partners and outlines the evening's schedule, which includes keynote speakers, a networking social, and breakout sessions. Attendees are reminded to check in using a QR code for official attendance and a chance to win gift cards.

Ben Livingston announces the conference theme: Authenticity, Accountability, and Achievement. The goal is to help students explore engagement with the university community, develop as leaders, and assist student organizations in engaging and recruiting members.

Brett Anderson, CEO of Ebenezer Senior Living, shares his journey and insights on authenticity. He emphasizes that true leadership comes from being real, not just polished, and that authenticity is the alignment of values, actions, and how one shows up, even when uncomfortable. He highlights the importance of knowing your values, being real in your ambition, and connecting before performing.

Professor Brenda Fannery, former Dean of the College of Business at MSU, discusses accountability, reframing it from a negative finger-pointing concept to 'reciprocal accountability' or 'relationship accountability'. She uses examples from the WNBA to illustrate the importance of shared vision, effective communication (listening, talking, regular check-ins), and enjoying the journey and shared accomplishments to build strong relationships within teams.

Adidong Ukuan, an electrical engineering student at MSU, speaks about achievement. He encourages dreaming big and not overlooking small opportunities, sharing his personal journey from delivering packages for Amazon to becoming a student leader and intern. He emphasizes that daily small steps and pursuing opportunities, even unexpected ones, lead to significant achievements and impact.

The speakers answer questions from the audience. Brett Anderson and Adidong Ukuan discuss strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome, emphasizing the validity of one's unique perspective. They also provide advice on advocating for change, suggesting asking good questions, listening, and leveraging all available resources to bridge gaps and make progress.