Breakout Sessions

12:00 – 1:00 PM
Juan Constantino CEO of La Casa de Amistad

Juan Constantino is the Chief Executive Officer of La Casa de Amistad, a youth and community center in South Bend, IN. He is a Holy Cross College alum who started his career at La Casa in 2016 as a Programming Assistant. He worked his way into a full-time development role for La Casa as they launched a $3.25M capital campaign in 2019. On September 16, 2021, the board of directors of La Casa de Amistad appointed Juan as their Executive Director and in August 2024, Juan was promoted to CEO of La Casa de Amistad. 

Juan is actively involved in the community where he serves on Indiana University South Bend’s Advisory Board to the Chancellor and is a board member for Downtown South Bend. Juan is first generation grad, a DACA recipient, a son of immigrant parents, and a product of this South Bend community.

1:00 – 1:15 PM
Break & Transition to Breakout Sessions

1:15 – 2:00 PM

Breakout 1 - Session 1
Confidence in Action: Leading Through Doubt, sponsored by Notre Dame Federal Credit Union
Speaker: Cherri Kulp, Principal Coach & Founder of Internal Garden Coaching & Leadership Solutions | LinkedIn

You got here because you're good at what you do. You know it. But somewhere between "I've got this" and "Am I actually qualified?" the doubt shows up, and suddenly you're second-guessing everything. This workshop is built for leaders who are ready to move past Impostor Phenomenon instead of around it. We'll explore what confidence actually looks like through an emotional intelligence lens, name the patterns that show up when doubt wins, and walk through three concrete actions you can bring back to your workplace. 

Breakout 1 - Session 2
AI Etiquette in the Workplace: Using AI Responsibly
Speakers: Teresa Covarrubias Gonzalez, Manager of AI & Transformational Technology at Beacon Health System and Chris Sharp, Co-Founder of Sharp-Wilkinson

AI is becoming part of everyday work across industries. The conversation is shifting from “How do I use this?” to “Am I using it correctly?” Join Teresa Covarrubias Gonzalez and Chris Sharp for a discussion on navigating AI responsibly in the workplace. Explore how organizations are integrating AI tools safely and effectively. Panelists will discuss privacy and accuracy while also addressing workplace expectations. This session will help young professionals understand what AI can do and how it should be used responsibly.

2:00 – 2:15 PM
Break

2:15 – 3:00 PM

Breakout 2 - Session 1
Understanding Personality and Leadership Assessments
Speaker: Aaron Schneider, Director of Development at Ivy Tech Community College South Bend-Elkhart | LinkedIn

Most professionals have taken at least one personality or leadership assessment throughout their careers. Myers-Briggs, CliftonStrengths and DISC are just a few of the options available. But how do you choose the right tool for yourself or your team? Aaron will break down the major types of assessments and what makes each one distinct. Learn how to match the right tool to your goals and leave with a practical approach to choosing the assessment that meets your needs.

Breakout 2 - Session 2
Homeownership and Mortgages for the Young Professional
Speaker: Vanessa Hawkey, Mortgage Originator | LinkedIn

Buying a home can be one of the biggest financial decisions you make. Understanding the process can make it much less intimidating. Join Vanessa Hawkey for an approachable look at homeownership and mortgages for young professionals. Learn how to prepare financially and better understand your mortgage options. This session will also cover what to expect throughout the homebuying process so you can make informed decisions about your future.

3:00 – 3:15 PM
Break

3:15 – 4:00 PM

Breakout 3 - Session 1
Building Your Personal Brand: Your Digital Presence
Speaker: Ashley DeJonge, Senior Social Media Strategist at Lippert | LinkedIn

Your digital presence often makes an impression before you ever enter the room. Join Ashley DeJonge for a practical look at building an authentic personal brand online. Drawing from her experience in social media and digital storytelling, Ashley will explore how to showcase your strengths and communicate your value. Learn how you can use social media with intention to create meaningful professional opportunities.

Breakout 3 - Session 2
Evolving Workplaces: Setting the Culture for Your Business
Speaker: Peter Rienks, Founder of TRG | LinkedIn

Workplace culture is shaped by the decisions leaders make every day. Join Peter Rienks as he explores how leaders can intentionally build a culture that evolves alongside their organization. Drawing from his experience building and leading a growing company, Peter will discuss leadership and team development. He will also explore the role young professionals can play in creating workplaces where people and businesses can thrive.

4:00 – 5:30 PM

After Party, sponsored by Hello Home
Unwind, connect, and celebrate with drinks, music, and good vibes.

Photography provided by Sharp Wilkinson

Registration includes:

Cost: $120 per person

Questions?

Contact Felix Adams at
574-400-4002 or fadams@sbrchamber.com for more information