What is the Simmons Leadership Conference?
our RICH 44-YEAR HISTORY
The First Women’s Conference in U.S.
The Simmons Leadership Conference has been at the forefront of women's leadership since its inception in 1978 as America’s first women’s business conference. It has paved the way for women’s leadership around the world inspiring over 115K+ women to date.
WORLD-CLASS THOUGHT LEADERS
Acclaimed Speakers & Panelists
Today the Simmons Leadership Conference brings together more than 8,500 professional leaders from around the globe – women and their allies – who want to better themselves, their workplaces, and the world. The conference stage has seen notable keynote speakers such as Michelle Obama, Hillary Clinton, Brené Brown, Maya Angelou, Oprah Winfrey, Serena Williams and more.

Choice & Flexibility
Join us for the 2023 Simmons Leadership Conference where we will explore the theme of Renewal and Innovation. We're offering three attendance options to provide maximum choice and flexibility we know women need. Attend in-person in Boston or online from anywhere on March 14, or watch video on demand 90 days following the event. All three participation options offer a great value at a great price.
Why Attend
Over the course of this one-day event, inspiring keynote speakers offer candid stories about their experiences on the way to the top, as well as principles for success to help you pursue your own professional path. The conference also offers thought-provoking panel discussions that will build your knowledge of leadership best practices. Each session allows for candid and open Q & As with top women leaders who provide expert advice and pro tips immediately applicable to enhance your leadership success.
Highlights from 2022
We unpacked the theme of Cultivating Courage and Connection at the 43rd Simmons Leadership Conference. Attendees gained heartfelt inspiration, wisdom, and insights from a world-class lineup of speakers, including Simone Biles, Brené Brown, Molly Fletcher, Amanda Gorman, and Luvvie Ajayi Jones. They shared highly personal stories that highlighted the importance of courage, connection, community, and vulnerability in leadership.
Take a look at memorable moments from the 2022 Simmons Leadership Conference.

Past Conference Speakers
Past Conference Speakers

Oprah Winfrey
Talk Show Host, Television Producer, Actress, Author, and Philanthropist

Oprah Winfrey
Talk Show Host, Television Producer, Actress, Author, and Philanthropist


Hillary Clinton
Former U.S. Secretary of State, Former First Lady, and Politician

Hillary Clinton
Former U.S. Secretary of State, Former First Lady, and Politician


Michelle Obama
Former First Lady, Attorney, and Author

Michelle Obama
Former First Lady, Attorney, and Author


Serena Williams
World Champion Tennis Player

Serena Williams
World Champion Tennis Player


Amanda Gorman
America's First Youth Poet Laureate

Amanda Gorman
America's First Youth Poet Laureate


Brené Brown
Researcher & Bestselling Author

Brené Brown
Researcher & Bestselling Author


Simone Biles
World’s Most Decorated Gymnast

Simone Biles
World’s Most Decorated Gymnast


Mindy Kaling
Actress, Comedian, Writer, and Producer

Mindy Kaling
Actress, Comedian, Writer, and Producer


Jameela Jamil
Actress and Activist

Jameela Jamil
Actress and Activist


Madeleine Albright
Diplomat and Former U.S. Secretary of State

Madeleine Albright
Diplomat and Former U.S. Secretary of State

Nominate a Speaker
Let us know who might inspire you at a future conference or event.
Become a Conference Sponsor
Join the hundreds of organizations whose sponsorship has helped advance their growth and develop their team members into inclusive leaders. If you’re interested in learning more about the many benefits of becoming a sponsor, please contact Tracie Charland at 617-521-3830 or tracie.charland@simmons.edu