Inspire HER

Presented by Johnson Bixby

MARCH 12, 2026

GVC brings you an empowering event dedicated to celebrating and advancing professional women! Focusing on inclusivity and growth, Inspire HER is open to professionals of all levels and anyone who wishes to attend, regardless of gender.

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The Leadership Conference for Everyone!

The Inspire HER conference aims to provide a supportive environment where attendees can gain valuable insights, develop crucial skills, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Keynote Speaker

Networking

Breakout Sessions

2025 CONFERENCE AGENDA

8:00AM- 9:00AM | REGISTRATION & WELCOME RECEPTION

9:00AM - 9:15AM | OPENING REMARKS

Greater Vancouver Chamber
Presenting Sponsor: Johnson Bixby

9:15AM - 10:00AM | KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Kate Byars | Embracing Ambition in a World Designed to Burn You Out

10:00AM - 10:30AM | BREAK - Network with Exhibitors | Sponsored by Novolex

10:30AM - 11:25AM | MORNING BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Klarissa Hightower | Measuring Belonging & Modeling Dignity | Sponsored by Cascade Inn & University Village
Brandi Oldham | Reframing Feedback | Sponsored by Alliant Insurance Services
Tracy Hooper | Confident Conversations | Sponsored by Blue Mountain Community Management
Miryam Valdivia-Romero | Leadership Liberation: From Pleasing to Powerful

11:25AM - 11:55AM | BREAK - Network with Exhibitors

11:55AM - 1:25PM | 2025 IRIS AWARDS LUNCHEON | Presented by Riverview Bank

1:25PM - 2:20PM | AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Serilda Summers-McGee | Behind the Curtain: Understanding Your Supervisor's Role and Responsibilities | Sponsored by Cascade Inn & University Village
Heidi Johnson Bixby CFP® & Patricia Spies CFP® | You 2.0: Adopting an Investor Mindset in Life | Sponsored by Alliant Insurance Services
Dr. Lisa Bryant | Menopause Uncovered: Vital Insights to Thrive in Life and Work | Sponsored by Blue Mountain Community Management
Daron Deonier-Clemons | Personal Branding & Authentic Marketing: Harness the Superpower of Style

2:20PM - 2:50PM | BREAK - Network with Exhibitors

2:50PM - 3:45PM | AFTERNOON BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Tracy Hooper | Confident Conversations| Sponsored by Cascade Inn & University Village
Miryam Valdivia-Romero | Leadership Liberation: From Pleasing to Powerful | Sponsored by Alliant Insurance Services
Klarissa Hightower | Measuring Belonging & Modeling Dignity | Sponsored by Blue Mountain Community Management
Brandi Oldham | Reframing Feedback

3:45PM - 4:45PM | "WOMEN & WINE" RECEPTION
Featuring local female winemakers from:

Confluence Winery
Maryhill Winery
Willful Wine Company
Woven Wineworks

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Kate Byars

Embracing Ambition in a World Designed to Burn You Out

This year’s conference will feature Kate Byars, founder of The Goodlife Institute. A trailblazer in human optimization and peak performance, Byars is a three-time Inc. 5000 founder and a Stevie Gold Award winner in multiple categories, including Women Helping Women, Women in Business, and Female Entrepreneur of the Year.

Learn more about Kate's journey

Breakout Sessions

Klarissa Hightower

Measuring Belonging & Modeling Dignity

No matter your role, dignity and belonging are essential for a thriving environment. But how do you assess them? In this session, you'll explore Donna Hicks' Essential Elements of Dignity, the Psychological Sense of School Membership Scale (PSSM) for measuring belonging, and use mock data to take the first steps in fostering dignity-driven spaces.

Brandi Oldham

Reframing Feedback

Feedback isn’t just criticism or praise—it’s a powerful tool for growth. In this breakout session, you’ll learn to reframe feedback, no matter your role, and gain a simple 3-step formula for giving and receiving it with confidence and clarity.

Tracy Hooper

Confident Conversations

Join this interactive session with Tracy to master Confident Conversation skills for any personal or professional setting. Learn how to communicate with ease, build trust, and elevate your presence as a trusted advisor or colleague.

Miryam Valdivia-Romero

Leadership Liberation: From Pleasing to Powerful

In this workshop, you'll discover how unconscious people-pleasing behaviors are impacting your performance and influence, backed by neuroscience and mindset research. Through engaging discussions and practical strategies, you'll learn to cultivate authentic leadership, enhance accountability, and transform your professional presence into one that is truly empowered and impactful.

Serilda Summers-McGee

Understanding Your Supervisor's Role and Responsibilities

Management and HR juggle complex responsibilities, often behind the scenes. This session unpacks their ethical, legal, and confidentiality duties, explaining why they can’t always share everything. Designed for non-HR professionals, it offers insights to build trust, respect boundaries, and strengthen workplace relationships.

Heidi Johnson Bixby CFP® & Patricia Spies CFP®

You 2.0: Adopting an Investor Mindset in Life

Adopting an ‘investor’ mindset can empower every aspect of your life. This session explores how to recognize hidden biases, reframe your money story, and apply investment principles to intentional decision-making. Through practical exercises and real-life examples, you'll gain clarity, confidence, and strategies to align your choices with your future vision.

Dr. Lisa Bryant

Menopause Uncovered: Vital Insights to Thrive in Life and Work

This isn’t just about menopause—it’s your guide to thriving through life’s transitions. Learn how menopause and andropause impact energy, focus, and workplace dynamics, and get expert strategies for managing symptoms, boosting vitality, and improving sleep. With real-life insights and actionable tips, you’ll gain the tools to navigate this change confidently—at home and work.

Daron Deonier-Clemons

Personal Branding & Authentic Marketing: Harness the Superpower of Style

Your energy introduces you while your personal style tells your story. In our visual society you have less than 11 seconds to convey who you are and advocate your brand message. Learn how to integrate your personality, values, and authentic self fully into your personal brand and harness the superpowers of style!

HONORING WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT

Iris Awards

Presented by Riverview Bank

As part of the Inspire HER Conference, we are proud to present the prestigious Iris Awards - honoring exceptional women who have made a lasting impact in their industries and communities. Access to the Iris Awards Luncheon is included with your conference ticket.

Learn More

Save Your Spot!

GVC Member Individual Ticket

$150.00

Ticket Provides Admission for ONE to the Inspire HER Conference & Access to the 2025 Iris Awards Luncheon.

Purchase Ticket

Non-Member Individual Ticket

$175.00

Ticket Provides Admission for ONE to the Inspire HER Conference & Access to the 2025 Iris Awards Luncheon.

Purchase Ticket

Conference VIP Table for 8

$1500.00

Take advantage of this opportunity to strengthen your team and offer development and leadership training to your staff.

Request VIP Table

FAQs

What is the Inspire HER Conference?

The Inspire HER Conference is an empowering day-long event designed to inspire, educate, and connect attendees from diverse backgrounds. It features a keynote speaker, panel discussions, breakout sessions, and networking opportunities to foster personal and professional growth.

When and where is the Inspire HER Conference taking place?

The Inspire HER Conference will be held on March 13, 2025, from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm, at the Hilton Vancouver Washington, located at 301 W 6th St, Vancouver, WA 98660.

How can I register for the Inspire HER Conference?

You can register for the conference by visiting our official website and clicking on the "Purchase Ticket Now" button. Follow the instructions to complete the registration process.

What is the registration fee for the conference?

Registration for an Individual Ticket is $150 for GVC Members, and $175 for Non-Members. VIP Tables for 8 are also available. Please refer to our website for detailed pricing information.

What does the registration fee include?

The registration fee includes a full day of engaging leadership conference sessions featuring inspiring speakers, interactive breakout sessions, and valuable networking opportunities. Light pastries, coffee, tea, and water will be available during each break between program materials. Additionally, attendees will have exclusive access to the prestigious Iris Awards luncheon, celebrating outstanding women of achievements in the community. Lunch will be served during the Iris Awards Luncheon at 12 PM. The attendees will have access to the Women & Wine Reception at 4PM.

Will food & drinks be available during the conference?

Light pastries, coffee, tea, and water will be available during each break between program materials. Lunch will be served during the Iris Awards Luncheon at 12 PM. Wine will be provided during the “Women & Wine” Reception. Any dietary accommodations should be noted in your registration when asked.

What is the process for Check-In?

The check-in for the Inspire HER conference will begin at 8AM at the “Convention Center” Entrance of the Hilton Vancouver Washington on Columbia Street.

What is the procedure for attending only the Iris Awards Luncheon?

While all Inspire HER attendees enjoy automatic access to the prestigious Iris Awards Luncheon at 12PM, we understand that some individuals may wish to join us solely for the Iris Awards Luncheon experience. To secure your seat at this memorable celebration of excellence, please click here to purchase your tickets. After securing an “Iris Awards ONLY Ticket” you will be sent confirmation messaging and reminders with instructions on when to arrive at the venue, and when the Iris Awards will conclude. We ask that only full day conference attendees participate in the breakout sessions that follow the Iris Awards.

Can I purchase tickets at the event venue?

This event will sell out. Attendees must register online in advance. On-site registration will not be available on the day of the event.

Is the conference open to all genders?

The conference is open to attendees of all genders who support the mission of empowering and inspiring women.

Who should attend the Inspire HER Conference?

The Inspire HER Conference welcomes a diverse audience, from seasoned professionals aiming to enhance their leadership skills and broaden their networks, to aspiring individuals seeking guidance and inspiration for their personal and professional growth journey. No matter your background or career stage, this conference offers valuable insights, empowering workshops, and meaningful connections to help you thrive in your personal and professional pursuits.

What is the expected attire for the Inspire HER Conference?

Business casual is the recommended attire for the conference.

What topics will be covered during the conference sessions?

The conference will cover a wide range of topics including leadership, personal development, career advancement, work-life balance, and more. Detailed information about sessions and speakers can be found on our website.

Where can I find the conference agenda for Inspire HER?

The detailed conference agenda, featuring session timings, topics, and speaker information, can be accessed on our official website.

Will there be opportunities for networking with other attendees?

Yes, the conference includes dedicated networking sessions, allowing attendees to connect with fellow participants, speakers, and sponsors. It's a great opportunity to expand your professional network.

Is parking available at the Hilton Vancouver Washington?

The Hilton Vancouver Washington offers valet parking options for a fee. Street parking is available, as well as paid lot parking at Lot #18 “Park & Go”.

Is there nearby accommodation for out-of-town attendees?

Yes, the Hilton Vancouver Washington offers comfortable accommodation for conference attendees. We recommend booking your stay early to secure the best rates. Additionally, there are several other hotels in the vicinity for your convenience.

What airport do participants use if they are planning to travel by air?

All flights should arrive into the Portland International Airport (Airport Code: PDX).

Is the conference venue accessible for individuals with disabilities?

Yes, the Hilton Vancouver Washington is fully accessible for individuals with disabilities. If you require specific accommodation or have special needs, please contact us in advance, and we will be happy to assist you.

What is your cancellation policy?

Our cancellation policy allows attendees to receive a full refund if the cancellation is made before Thursday, February 12, 2026. Cancellations made after this date will be subject to a processing fee. Please contact our team for detailed information regarding the cancellation policy at YourChamber@VancouverUSA.com.