Navigating Leadership Now: Elevate Above the Noise

In today’s fast-moving world of constant information, rapid change and competing demands, leadership requires clarity, courage and connection. That’s the focus of Navigating Leadership Now (NLN) — the University of Louisville College of Business’s premier leadership conference and flagship event for leadership development in our region. 

This year’s conference takes place April 23, 2026, at the Muhammad Ali Center, with the theme: “Elevate Above the Noise.”

NLN brings together leaders from high-growth small-to-medium sized businesses, nonprofits, government and the broader community to explore evidence-based strategies and practical tools for leading through complexity.

Attendees will hear from an outstanding lineup of speakers and facilitators, including:

• Lonnie Ali, philanthropist and cofounder of the Muhammad Ali Center, sharing insights on compassionate leadership that elevates others
• Jim James, Louisville hometown hero and frontman of My Morning Jacket, offering a creative perspective on leadership and rising above distraction
• Jenna Ahern, founder of Guardian Owl and one of Louisville’s Most Admired CEOs, leading a workshop on AI and employees
• Local business leaders including Jesus Martinez (Con Huevos) and Phillip Crosby (DAN-O’s Seasoning), sharing real-world leadership lessons
• Experts from the Federal Reserve, UofL faculty and community leaders speaking on belonging, communication, encouragement and navigating disagreement
• And UofL students from the nationally recognized “Elevator” class, highlighting the change they’ve helped create in Louisville over the past year

Whether you’re an experienced executive or an emerging leader, NLN offers a powerful opportunity to grow your network, sharpen your skills and build bridges between the university and the community.

Tickets are available now. Join us for a day of inspiration, learning and leadership that rises above the noise. 

Navigating Leadership Now | April 23, 2026 | Muhammad Ali Center

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