The Platform Conference Center
The Platform Conference Center320 S. Canal St., Chicago IL 60606
Register Here
LinkedIn Graphics - Attendees | LinkedIn Graphics - Sponsors
Imagine being part of an event that transcends simply talking about the latest industry trends, but rather is crafted around collaboration and creating a space where we as women all rise together.
EmpowHER is essential in this space and is all about truly honing our leadership skills or, as we prefer to call it, leadHERship skills. We're tackling confidence, silencing that negative inner critic, and gearing up to empower not just ourselves, but the women around us too.
EmpowHER brings together high-caliber speakers and purpose-driven workshops designed for real reflection and growth.
Come ready to engage deeply, invest in yourself, and leave with clarity you can use at work and in life.
2026 Event Schedule:
The Platform at 320 S. Canal
Monday, 8/31
12:30 pm
Check-In/Networking Surprise
Visit the registration desk at The Platform at 320 S. Canal to receive your name badge and surprise. We are so happy you are here!
1:30 pm
Welcome - Leslie Mathis, Founder of EmpowHER
Leslie Mathis, founder of Streamline Multifamily Group, welcomes attendees to the 4th Annual EmpowHER Conference and shares the heart behind this year's event, its theme, and the community that continues to make EmpowHER so special.
1:45 pm
State of the Market - Meggan Taylor
The U.S. apartment market entered mid-year 2026 with resilient demand and a welcome slowdown in new supply. Although revenue growth has yet to accelerate meaningfully, the balance between supply and demand is improving. Performance remains uneven across asset classes, markets and submarkets, while inflation and soft consumer sentiment add uncertainty to the near-term outlook.
Join RealPage market analyst Meggan Taylor for a concise look at the forces shaping multifamily performance through 2026 and beyond. The session will examine the demand drivers supporting resilience, the implications of the second-half supply pipeline, shifting investor sentiment and the trends to watch during budget season. Attendees will leave with a clear view of national and regional conditions, along with an updated outlook for 2027.
2:10 pm
Sponsor Spotlight
2:20 pm
Speaker - SC Perot "Joy Rediscovered: Yours, Mine, Ours"
In this inspiring keynote, SC shares how joy can be intentionally cultivated and shared to create a ripple effect of positivity, even during life’s challenges. Using her CAPS Framework—Cultivate, Adopt, Protect, and Spread—she guides audiences to reconnect with joy through personal stories, practical strategies, and meaningful actions. With warmth and insight, SC empowers audiences to move beyond survival and embrace joy as a transformative force in their own lives and communities.
3:00 pm
Sponsors Spotlight
3:15 pm
Break with Headshots & Color Stylist
3:30pm
Workshop - Sharon Kazan Harris "Don't Give Up the Wine List"
What if the wine list wasn't about wine at all? Join Sharon Kazan Harris for a fresh perspective on confidence, client engagement, and the small moments that can open the door to stronger business relationships and bigger opportunities.
6:30 pm
Welcome Reception | Chicago Odyssey Glass River Boat Sunset Cruise
Join us aboard the iconic Odyssey for an evening of conversation, connection, and breathtaking views of Chicago at sunset. It's the perfect opportunity to meet fellow attendees and celebrate the start of another unforgettable EmpowHER experience.
Tuesday, 9/1/2026
8:30 am
Breakfast & Mingling
9:00 am
Speaker - Leslie Mathis "Failure Didn't Finish Me"
Life and leadership rarely follow the script. Leslie Mathis shares lessons learned from navigating unexpected challenges and how resilience, adaptability, and purpose can turn life's detours into your greatest opportunities.
9:40 am
Workshop - Holly Duckworth "AI and the Future Ready Female"
Artificial intelligence is changing the way we work and lead. Discover practical ways to embrace AI with confidence, increase productivity, and prepare for the future while staying authentically you.
10:40 am
Sponsor Spotlight
10:45 am
Group Photo & Networking Break
11:10 am
Entryway
11:30 am
Sponsor Spotlight
11:35 am
Lunch & Experiences
Take a break to recharge while exploring interactive experiences (including our favorite watercolor artist!), connecting with fellow attendees, and building relationships that extend well beyond the conference.
12:50 pm
Panel - Strong Not Sorry
Featuring: Thru Shivakumar, Artesha Moore & Victoria Alvarez
What happens when confidence is perceived as too direct, strong communication gets labeled as difficult, or feedback makes you question the very voice you've worked hard to find? This candid conversation explores how to trust your voice while still knowing when feedback is worth listening to, when it's simply someone else's discomfort with confidence, and how to lead with strength without apologizing for it.
1:50 pm
Panel Q&A
Moderated by Christine Espenshade
2:35 pm
Sponsor Spotlight
2:40 pm
Speaker - Natalie Sherman "Take Your Seat at the Investment Table"
Many women excel at building their careers but feel uncertain when it comes to investing. Whether you're just getting started or have been investing for years, this session will help you approach your financial future with greater clarity and confidence. Rather than focusing on stock picks or market predictions, we'll explore practical strategies for building a strong financial foundation and making investment decisions that align with your personal goals and values. You'll leave with practical tools, thoughtful questions to ask, and a roadmap for taking your next step with confidence.
3:25 pm
Sponsor Spotlight
3:30 pm
Break
3:50 pm
Speaker - Heather Adams "Stronger, Together"
Success isn't built alone. Heather Adams explores the power of community, collaboration, and lifting one another up, reminding us that when women support women, extraordinary things happen.
4:20 pm
Speaker - Erin Krueger "Building Culture and the Impact"
Great culture doesn’t happen by accident. Erin Krueger explores how intentional leadership can shape, strengthen, and sustain a culture where people feel connected, valued, and empowered to thrive.
5:05 pm
Streamline Team Intro by Leslie & Closing Thoughts
Meet the team behind the mission as Leslie Mathis introduces the Streamline team, then brings EmpowHER to a close with a final moment of connection, reflection, and inspiration for what comes next.
7:00 pm
((SOLD OUT )) VIP Dinner Experience at Caché 310
End the day with an intimate evening of exceptional dining, meaningful conversations, and exclusive networking. Designed for deeper connections and memorable moments, the VIP Dinner Experience offers the perfect setting to continue the conversations that began throughout the day.
*Timeline is subject to change. The VIP Event is exclusive and must be added on to your registration. For sponsors, you must be a Platinum sponsor or above.
SPONSORS
Looking to become a sponsor? Please fill out the form below and we will be in touch! Please do not fill out the registration as a normal attendee as there is a special process we have to sign you up.
Inquire Here
Already a sponsor? Share it with your network!
HOTEL INFO
LaSalle Chicago
208 S LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60604
.6 miles | 14-minute walk
Hilton Garden Inn - Chicago Central Loop
245 S Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60606
.4 miles | 9-minute walk
WHY ATTEND EMPOWHER?
Invest In Yourself
Take the opportunity to invest in yourself and your growth as a leader.
Strengthen Your Network
Connect with like-minded women leaders in the multifamily industry and expand your network.
Learn The Power Of Togetherness
Discover the value of collective strength and the importance of bringing women along for the journey.
