Women in Business Summit spotlights leadership, opportunity, student success
UNC Charlotte’s Belk College of Business brought together students and industry leaders for the annual Women in Business Leadership Development Summit, a day designed to connect students with the people and opportunities shaping careers in Charlotte and beyond.
The summit opened with a keynote address from Belk College alumna Kisha Smith, chief people officer at Tepper Sports and Entertainment, who shared insights on leadership, resilience and building inclusive workplaces.
Smith, who oversees human resources for the parent company that operates the Carolina Panthers, Charlotte FC and Bank of America Stadium urged students to embrace curiosity and boldness as they prepare for careers in a competitive marketplace.
“The one thing I also want everyone to know…is that as a woman in leadership, pull her up with you”, said Smith. “Don’t be intimidated by her, use her skills and abilities to help make you look good because that’s what I’ve done in my career.”
Following the keynote, students participated in breakout sessions led by executives and entrepreneurs across industries. The sessions offered practical advice on navigating career paths, building networks, and leading with purpose.
Scholarships Awarded
The event concluded with the presentation of nine scholarships totaling more than $15,000, with individual awards ranging from $500 to $3,360 to cover tuition and fees. The scholarships recognized students for academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to advancing women in business.
“We’ve made a decision to invest in you, the women of the Belk College of Business, and I couldn’t think of a better investment”, said Jim Boyland, a founding member of the Women in Business Initiative.
By combining access to top leaders with direct financial support, the Women in Business Summit underscores the Belk College’s role as a hub for talent development in Charlotte’s business community. For students, it’s proof that leadership opportunities and career momentum start here.
The Women in Business Initiative supports students interested in advancing the progress of professional women entering the workforce by sharing success stories of women business leaders, offering engagement opportunities for undergraduate students and the Charlotte business community and showcasing attractive career options while providing avenues for skill building to increase confidence and competence for long-term success.
The Belk College Niblock Student Center oversees the program. The initiative includes advisory groups, including student ambassadors, an advisory board of executives, and faculty consultants.