The defining moments in leadership begin with a choice. To speak when it would be easier to stay quiet. To begin again after a setback. To stand firm in what feels right. These choices are not made without fear, but in spite of it. Courage becomes the steady foundation that helps us lead with integrity and confidence.

Join us at the Midwest Leadership Summit on April 21, 2026, at the Overland Park Convention Center or Online, where we will explore how courageous leadership inspires innovation, resilience, and authentic growth.

This year’s theme, Choose Courage, is an invitation to lead through uncertainty with strength and heart. Hear from leaders who have faced challenge and change with conviction, and discover how courage has shaped their influence and success. Expect a day filled with fresh insights, practical tools, and conversations that move you forward.

Say yes to courage. Be part of a community that chooses to lead bravely, connect deeply, and create lasting impact. Every act of courage begins with one choice. Make yours by registering today.

Courageous Leaders from Every Field

COURAGEOUS LEADERS FROM EVERY FIELD

Each year, the Midwest Leadership Summit gathers over 1,100 attendees from across Kansas City and beyond. The Summit brings professionals from all career stages, genders, generations, and disciplines, creating a collective energy that inspires reflection, learning, and genuine connection.

Attendees include emerging professionals, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and executives who come together to share experiences, exchange ideas, and challenge themselves to lead with intention.

More than 200 organizations take part annually, representing a wide range of industries and perspectives. Whether attending in person or virtually, every participant becomes part of a thoughtful, forward-looking community that believes courage is not just a trait but a practice that grows stronger when shared.

AT THE OVERLAND PARK CONVENTION CENTER + ONLINE

*All times are CST/UTC-6. **Agenda is tentative and subject to change.

• In-Person Access at the Overland Park Convention Center, or Virtual Access on our Digital Platform, to all sessions on April 21, 2026, for a full day of learning, connection & inspiration.

• Access to All Session Recordings for up to one year after the event.

• A Continental Breakfast, Plated Lunch, and Happy Hour at the Summit (for in-person ticket holders only).

Volunteers bring the Midwest Leadership Summit to life. Whether you help set up the day before or support attendees during the event, your time and energy make this day of courage, learning, and connection possible for everyone.

When you volunteer, you’ll also receive special ticket discounts:

• Half-Day Volunteers: 50% off regular ticket pricing
($125 for CX Members | $175 for Non-Members)

• Full-Day Volunteers: Attend the Summit for Free!

Volunteer roles vary and may include greeting guests, assisting the virtual audience, supporting breakout sessions, helping with setup or teardown, or staffing the info booth. Once you apply, we’ll confirm your role and time commitment based on event needs.

Ready to become a volunteer? Complete the brief volunteer application or contact Jas Sohal at jas@centralexchange.org with any questions. We’ll follow up within a week with next steps.

Why sponsor?
Sponsoring the Midwest Leadership Summit puts your organization at the heart of Kansas City’s premier leadership event. It’s where professionals exchange ideas, challenge perspectives, and gain the confidence to lead with courage and purpose.

As a sponsor, you will:

• Be recognized as a supporter of bold, authentic leadership.
• Give your team access to inspiration and actionable tools through tickets to the Summit.
• Align your brand with an event that values growth, innovation, and collaboration.

Your partnership helps create a space where courage inspires change. Let’s find the sponsorship package that fits your goals and connects you with today’s most engaged leaders. Contact Kerry Gentry Hartnett, Signature Event Manager, at kerry@centralexchange.org to explore opportunities.