Member Hosted Event: EWI of Knoxville Leadership Summit 2026

EWI of Knoxville Leadership Summit 2026 
Monday, August 24, 2026 | Registration and light breakfast: 7:30 a.m. | Summit: 8:00 a.m.–noon
Location: Bridgewater Place, 205 Bridgewater Road, Knoxville, TN 37923
Reserve your seat: www.ewiknox.com
Limited Free Seating 
The 2026 Leadership Summit brings together accomplished regional leaders for practical conversations about career growth, personal well-being, financial confidence, and leading with purpose.

Keynote: Patricia Nash and Jennifer Vanderink

Join Patricia Nash and Jennifer Vanderink for a candid conversation about building distinguished careers in their industry while supporting one another as family and professional peers. They will share lessons from leading at the highest levels, practical strategies for balancing demanding careers with full lives, and an honest perspective on what it takes to lead alongside the people you love most.
 

Community Leadership: Julie Blaylock

Julie Blaylock, President and CEO of the Farragut West Knox Chamber of Commerce, will share how she leads the Chamber’s strategic direction, partnerships, and advocacy while remaining deeply involved in the region’s business economy. Attendees will gain practical insight into building partnerships, representing business interests, and leading an organization with strong community connections.
 

Peace Index: Melissa Spangler

A chaotic world can make inner peace difficult to maintain. Crime, war, political strife, and constant discord in the media can affect how we relate to ourselves and those around us. In this Peace Index presentation, Melissa Spangler will share practical ways to cultivate peace and hope even when your environment feels unsettled.
 

Financial Confidence: Cindy Barnes

Cindy Barnes, Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, will lead a session on women’s financial confidence and well-being. Women are living longer, earning more, leading in greater numbers, and taking greater control of their financial futures than ever before. The session will cover investing, retirement planning, and financial leadership, with practical strategies attendees can use to make informed decisions with confidence—whether they are leading a business, supporting a family, or shaping their own financial journey.