Women's Leadership Conference Set for Sept. 17
Published Tuesday, August 11, 2026
Southwest Minnesota State University will host the Women’s Leadership Conference on Thurs., Sept. 17, 2026 from 9:00 am –3:00 pm in the Conference Center Upper Level.
The Women’s Leadership Conference provides opportunities for women of all ages and stages in their lives and careers to connect in meaningful ways. The conference is designed to bring women together, encourage them to lead where they are, embrace their worthiness and potential, and be inspired to lead balanced lives full of purpose and authenticity. Our purpose with this conference is to empower our attendees to create camaraderie, build confidence, and strengthen connections.
This year’s conference theme is “Lead with Intention: Clearing the Noise, Claiming Your Power.” To lead with intention is an invitation for women to pause, refocus, and lead from a place of purpose. In a world filled with constant demands and distractions, this theme centers on gaining clarity—quieting the noise so you can identify what truly matters and lead with confidence. Participants will explore practical ways to align their values, decisions, and voice, empowering them to step fully into their leadership with authenticity, resilience, and impact. This year’s keynote speaker is Ginny Priem. Featured speakers include Rachel Raths of Ghent and Stacy Frost of Marshall.
Ginny Priem, Keynote Speaker
Ginny Priem is a keynote speaker, #1 bestselling author, and a leadership and performance expert with over 20 years of corporate experience. She has led teams, driven results, and worked in high-pressure environments where competing priorities and constant demands are the norm.
She created the UNSUBSCRIBE™ Filter, a practical approach built on four pillars: BLOCK, MUTE, SWAP, & MANAGE. It helps leaders and teams cut through competing demands, reduce decision fatigue, and focus on what drives results.
Ginny has been named one of the Best Keynote Speakers in Minneapolis and is known for delivering clear, actionable insights that audiences can apply immediately.
Organizations bring Ginny in to help their leaders and teams operate with greater clarity, stronger boundaries, and a sharper focus on what actually matters.
Rachel Raths '13 - Senior Director of Innovation at Ralco
Rachel Raths is Senior Director of Innovation at Ralco, an agricultural company based in Marshall, Minnesota. Rachel is a proud SMSU alumna, class of 2013, and went on to earn her Master of Science in Microbiology from SDSU.
Over her 14-year career at Ralco, Rachel has grown from research scientist to leading teams across R&D, intellectual property, and regulatory affairs. Her work ranges from discovering and publishing novel solutions to shaping innovation and business strategy at Ralco.
Rachel has represented her industry on state and national committees and has presented research at conferences across the country.
When she isn't at work, Rachel can be found outside with her husband and three kids at their home in the country near Ghent, MN.
Stacy Frost '93 - Vice President of Philanthropy and Communications at Southwest Initiative Foundation
Stacy Frost is Vice President of Philanthropy and Communications at the Southwest Initiative Foundation, a regional nonprofit serving southwest Minnesota. She is a proud alumna of Southwest Minnesota State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in hotel administration, later completing a master’s degree in leadership and a doctorate in higher education administration.
Over her career, Stacy has built extensive experience in fundraising, alumni engagement, and development. She spent 17 years at SMSU, advancing through roles in annual giving, development, and alumni relations, where she led initiatives to strengthen connections with more than 24,000 alumni and support the university’s growth.
In her current leadership role, Stacy oversees philanthropy, communications, donor engagement, and strategic outreach efforts for the Southwest Initiative Foundation, helping advance programs that invest in communities and regional development.
A longtime Marshall resident, Stacy is passionate about hospitality, education, and leadership, and has been actively involved in community organizations and volunteer efforts across the region.
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The Women's Leadership Conference encourages women to take time for themselves, to learn how to lead where they are, to leverage a network of other professional women, and to leave with a sense of purpose. The conference was launched by the SMSU Foundation and is now presented by the SMSU Alumni Association.
The Women’s Leadership Conference is open to attendees of all ages, including students and retirees. The early bird registration fee is $150 for those who register by Aug. 31. After Aug. 31, the cost is $200, with registrations requested by Sept. 11. The conference is free to students. SMSU Alumni can secure a special rate as well! The conference includes lunch, interactive sessions, networking and a panel discussion featuring all the speakers. Businesses are invited to sponsor a table for 8 employees at $1,000 ($125 per person)
For the full agenda and registration, visit: www.smsu.edu/go/womenlead
For questions, contact:
507-537-6266
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