WILMA’s Leadership Accelerator is our annual half-day conference designed, this year, to celebrate and strengthen The Power of Us — the collective impact of women leading boldly, together. As we honor the 10-Year Anniversary of WILMA Leadership, this jam-packed day will not only feature personalized programming, hands-on workshops, and a powerful keynote lunch, but also spotlight the voices of women who have grown through our programs — giving them a platform to inspire what’s next.

EVENT DETAILS:

Date: July 24th, 2025
Time: 9am-2pm
Location: Wilmington Convention Center

2025 tickets on sale now, click here to get yours!

We’re bringing everyone together for lunch and WILMA Talks on ‘The Power of Us’. Hear from several inspiring women as they share more about how they accelerated to the next level and stepped outside their comfort zones.

Learn more about our keynote lunch speakers!
Click here to view speaker bios.

Vision in Focus: Scaling a Creative Vision Into an Award-Winning Business Venture 

Presented by Kristi Ray & Erika Arlee, Co-Founders, Honey Head Films

Award-winning storytellers and entrepreneurs Kristi Ray and Erika Arlee, co-founders of Honey Head Films, turned a bold creative vision into a thriving production company rooted in authenticity, community, and fierce storytelling.

In this keynote, they’ll take you behind the scenes of their journey – from passion project to profitable business – sharing pivotal mindset shifts, challenges overcome, and leadership lessons learned along the way. Walk away inspired and equipped with real-world insights on how to scale your own vision with intention, courage, and creative command.

Leading the Way: A Fireside Chat on Leadership Lessons Learned Along the Way

Presented by Laurie Whalin, President, Acute Care Operations and New Hanover Regional Medical Center, Novant Health – Coastal Market

Great leadership isn’t just about title; it’s about clarity, courage, and the ability to drive meaningful change.

Join Laurie Whalin, of Novant Health, as she explores what it takes to lead with intention inside one of the region’s most influential companies. Expect honest stories, practical advice, and the kind of perspective only experience can offer.

Grace, Grit & Giving: Leading on the Job and in Life with Intention

Presented by Tanya Armour, Chief Philanthropy Officer, Novant Health Foundation

In a world where leadership is often defined by outcomes and achievements, Tanya Armour, Chief Philanthropy Officer at Novant Health Foundation, invites us to lead from a deeper place—one grounded in purpose, resilience, and heart.

Through stories, insights, and practical takeaways, this talk explores how embracing grace, demonstrating grit, and living generously can elevate both your leadership and your life. Whether in the boardroom or the community, learn how intentional leadership can leave a lasting impact.

Full Circle: The Power of Peer Connection

Facilitated by Sheri Leavens, Assistant Dean, Student Success and Academic Advising, UNCW College of Health and Human Services

What began as a WILMA Leadership Institute peer group has grown into a network of leaders shaping change in their careers and communities.

Facilitated by Sheri Leavens, this session brings the group back together to reflect on their leadership journeys, the lessons that stuck, and challenges along the way as we mark a decade of WILMA Leadership’s growth.

Visit WILMAAccelerator.com to learn more about WILMA’s Leadership Accelerator.

The Accelerator is part of the overall WILMA Leadership Initiative and is attended by Wilmington’s top female executives, entrepreneurs, up-and-coming leaders, and others intent on advancing their careers.