What is SLC48?
The Simmons Leadership Conference (SLC48) will take place on March 23, 2027, in Boston, MA and virtually. This year’s theme, Lead What’s Next, explores what it takes to lead, thrive, and make an impact in a world that is changing faster than ever.
For nearly five decades, the Simmons Leadership Conference has brought leaders together for a powerful one-day experience of inspiration, learning, and connection. In 2027, we’ll explore four essential dimensions of leadership: leading alongside AI, sustaining your best self, building teams that thrive, and driving meaningful impact.
And the experience doesn’t end when the conference does. Back by popular demand, every SLC48 ticket includes Thrive365, an extended learning journey designed to keep the learning, reflection, and connection going beyond March 23 and help leaders put new ideas into action.
What is Thrive365?
Back by popular demand, Thrive365 returns for 2027 as an extended leadership journey that builds on the inspiration, learning, and connections of SLC48. Through expert-led experiences, practical resources, reflection, and opportunities to connect, Thrive365 helps leaders continue growing and put new ideas into action beyond the conference.
Designed to fit into the reality of a busy leader’s life, Thrive365 offers relevant, flexible learning focused on the challenges and opportunities leaders are navigating right now. It creates space to step back, gain fresh perspective, connect with other leaders, and bring practical ideas back to your work, your team, and your organization.
Every SLC48 ticket includes Thrive365, extending the value of the conference through continued learning, connection, and growth.
48th Simmons Leadership Conference
When and where is the 2027 Simmons Leadership Conference?
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Date: March 23, 2027
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Format: In-person in Boston and online from anywhere
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Venue: Boston, MA for in-person attendees
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Virtual: A full-stream experience through our online platform
What time does the program start and end?
The program will run from 9:00 am ET to 5:30 pm ET.
Where can I find the agenda?
The 2027 agenda is coming soon. Stay tuned to the Conference website for more details.
Is SLC47 a women’s only event?
No. We welcome allies of all genders and identities. Inclusive leadership is at the heart of our mission, and we believe everyone has a role to play in advancing leaders.
Can my company become an Enterprise Partner for the conference?
Absolutely, we’d love to have you. Sponsorship is more than supporting a one-day event; it’s about elevating your company’s brand while supporting the growth of leaders now and in the future. As an Enterprise Partner, you’re investing in a yearlong journey through Thrive365 that develops stronger leaders, builds workplace culture, and drives lasting impact. Contact our business development team to discuss opportunities.
Thrive365: The Connected Leader
How does Thrive365 relate to the Simmons Leadership Conference (SLC)?
Thrive365 extends the Simmons Leadership Conference beyond one powerful day, giving leaders more opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. Through timely resources, practical tools, and learning experiences, participants can build on the momentum of the Conference and continue developing the skills and perspectives they need to Lead What’s Next.
Who is Thrive365 for?
- For individuals: Leaders at any level who want to deepen their leadership capacity, stay connected to a supportive network, and build skills in a flexible format.
- For organizations: Companies seeking scalable, inclusive leadership development that strengthens culture, retains talent, and aligns with organizational values.
How does the Thrive365 model work?
Thrive365 is structured into four Learning Blocks, each featuring:
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Live, expert-led webinars
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On-demand tools and learning kits
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Reflection or podcast prompts
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Exclusive virtual or in-person networking events
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A digital badge to mark completion
What are the four Learning Blocks?
Thrive365 extends the Simmons Leadership Conference beyond one powerful day, giving leaders more opportunities to learn, connect, and grow. For 2027, the experience focuses on four timely leadership challenges designed to help you Lead What’s Next:
- Lead Alongside AI: Harness AI while strengthening human judgment, creativity, and connection.
- Sustain Your Best Self: Build the energy, resilience, and wellbeing to perform at your best.
- Build Teams That Thrive: Create trust and connection so people can contribute and succeed together.
- Drive Meaningful Impact: Turn ideas and ambition into action and meaningful results.
Can I access Thrive365 content on my own schedule?
Yes. One of the core advantages is flexibility—you can engage with on-demand content, tools, and recordings at times that work for you, making it compatible with busy professional schedules.
Can my company become an Enterprise Partner for Thrive365?
Yes, we’d love to have you. Partnership is more than backing a one-day conference; it’s investing in a full year of leadership development through Thrive365. Contact our business development team to discuss opportunities.
What is the benefit of Thrive365 for organizations?
Organizations that adopt Thrive365 can:
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Strengthen leadership capacity at scale
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Increase retention by offering meaningful growth opportunities
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Embed inclusive leadership practices across teams
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Align leadership development with organizational culture and values
Learn more about Thrive365 for your organization.
Simmons Conference History
Who produces SLC48?
The Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership produces this event. Proceeds support Simmons’ broader mission — from student scholarships to inclusive leadership initiatives.
How long has this conference been running?
SLC48 marks the 48th annual Simmons Leadership Conference in Boston. Over the years, we’ve welcomed a wide array of speakers and leaders committed to advancing inclusion and leadership. Explore our past conferences on the Boston Conference Collection page.
Where can I see a list of past speakers?
The conference stage has seen notable keynote speakers such as Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, Oprah Winfrey, Simone Biles, Trevor Noah, Gloria Steinem, Brené Brown, Gloria Estefan, Maya Angelou, Serena Williams, Quinta Brunson, Sheryl Lee Ralph, America Ferrera and more.
Visit our About the Conference page to explore past keynotes, panelists, and influential voices who’ve graced our stage.