Kickoff Luncheon - Gather Women's Group

Name: Kickoff Luncheon - Gather Women's Group
Start: 2026-03-18T11:00:00-05:00
Location: Barsema Alumni & Visitor Center

Schedule

Wed, 18 Mar, 2026 at 11:00 am

UTC-05:00

Location

Barsema Alumni & Visitor Center | Dekalb, IL

Join Gather Women's Group for their annual Kickoff Luncheon! We’re thrilled to welcome keynote speaker LaCretia Konan who will share insights and encouragement to empower women, both personally and professionally, with her keynote "Accountability: Owning Your Power Through Self-Reflection". Enjoy meaningful connections, a delicious lunch, and an uplifting program designed to launch the Gather year on a high note.
This event is included in 2026 Gather membership or $100 to attend. Registration deadline March 10th at dekalb.org/gather.
Curious about joining Gather? Secure an annual membership for just $125 (DeKalb Chamber Member Rate) $200 (Regular Rate) and enjoy the added benefit of six, all expenses paid events! Visit dekalb.org/gather for a closer look at membership or email [email protected].

LaCretia Konan is a dynamic leader in workforce development, renowned for forming strategic partnerships that connect education with the changing needs of business and industry. Since 2013, she has been with Kishwaukee College, serving as the Associate Vice President of Community Engagement, where she spearheads initiatives that enhance workforce readiness and provide impactful solutions for employers and their teams.
A dedicated community advocate, LaCretia is actively involved in efforts that uplift and empower individuals and organizations. She is a widely sought-after speaker, known for delivering engaging and insightful presentations on professional growth, leadership development, and diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. LaCretia also serves on multiple boards across DeKalb and Ogle Counties.
She holds a DEI Professional Certification from eCornell and is a certified Crucial Conversations trainer, equipping individuals with practical tools to handle high-stakes conversations confidently and clearly.
LaCretia earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Elmhurst College (now Elmhurst University) and a Master of Science in Education with a focus on Higher Education Leadership and Administration from Capella University. She is dedicated to lifelong learning and empowering others, with a focus on strengthening communities through education, professional development, and workforce initiatives.