BOCA RATON, Fla. (July 7, 2026) –Lynn University, in collaboration with the Boca Regional Chamber, will host the inaugural Karen S. Lynch Women’s Leadership Symposium, a premier leadership event bringing together nationally recognized executives and thought leaders from organizations including The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Revlon and Walgreens to explore leadership, career advancement and professional growth. The symposium is presented by The Dandelion Foundation, founded by best-selling author, mindfulness teacher and Peaceful Mind Peaceful LifeÒ co-founder Barbara Schmidt, and will take place Wednesday, Oct. 7, from 7:30 to 3 p.m. at Lynn’s Keith C. and Elaine Johnson Wold Performing Arts Center.

“This symposium represents an extraordinary opportunity for our business community to engage with world-class leaders who are shaping the future of business and leadership,” said Troy McLellan, president and CEO of the Boca Regional Chamber. “We are thrilled to partner with Lynn University to bring this powerful event to Boca Raton, and to create a platform that inspires leadership, innovation and collaboration.”

Designed to inspire, educate and empower current and aspiring leaders, the premier event will feature keynote conversations on leadership, career advancement, workplace wellness, knowing your value, salary negotiation and strategic risk-taking.

“By bringing together some of the nation’s most accomplished executives, the symposium will inspire meaningful conversations, foster professional growth and help shape the next generation of leaders.” said Dr. Katrina Carter-Tellison, vice president for academic affairs at Lynn.

The leadership event marks a rare opportunity for South Florida professionals to hear directly from an extraordinary lineup of nationally recognized leaders whose collective influences spans some of the world’s most respected companies and organizations.

Featured speakers include:

· Amy Bricker, executive vice president of Walgreens

· Anne Phelps, principal at Deloitte & Touche

· David Ko, former CEO of Calm and strategic advisor to the board

· Eileen Auen, chairman of Point32Health

· Karen S. Lynch, former president and CEO of CVS Health, corporate board director; author

· Lynn Martin, president of NYSE Group

· Michelle Peluso, CEO of Revlon

· Russ Miller, founder and CEO of ClearBridge Compensation Group

The symposium is named in honor of Karen S. Lynch, whose leadership journey and commitment to developing future leaders inspired the event.

“My hope is that every attendee leaves with practical insights they can put into action, meaningful connections and fresh perspectives that help them become effective leaders,” said Lynch.

In October 2025, Lynch and her husband, Kevin Lynch ’12, made a transformative gift to Lynn to establish the Karen S. Lynch Center for Leadership and Social Impact, creating new leadership programs and scholarship opportunities for students. Their vision of empowering future generations of leaders served as the catalyst for the symposium.

"When women are given the opportunity to grow, lead and support one another, entire communities benefit,” said Barbara Schmidt. “We are proud to support a gathering that celebrates leadership, connection and the power of investing in women."

Schmidt and her daughter, Michelle Maros, co-founded Peaceful Mind Peaceful LifeÒ to build a global community dedicated to helping people cultivate resilience through mindfulness, mental wellness and personal growth. Together, they have inspired millions through books, speaking engagements and their podcast, “Life Happens with Barb & Michelle.”

The premier leadership event will be emceed by former CNBC journalist Mary Thompson with support from Ashley Glass, anchor at WPTV, and Ellie Austin, editorial director of Most Powerful Women at Fortune.

Attendance is limited to 300 participants. Tickets are $295 and available for purchase.

For more information about the Karen S. Lynch Women’s Leadership Symposium, visit https://business.bocachamber.com/chamber-events-calendar/Details/women-s-leadership-symposium-1635701.

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About Lynn University

Lynn University offers an innovative, student-centered education, featuring a unique four-week block schedule, integrated Apple technology and accelerated degree options. Located in Boca Raton, it provides a vibrant South Florida lifestyle and access to leading employers. The university is home to NCAA Division II Fighting Knights athletics, the Institute for Achievement and Learning for students with learning differences and a nationally recognized Conservatory of Music. Through hands-on learning, global study experiences, internships and personalized academic support, Lynn prepares graduates to fulfill their potential in an ever-changing world. Learn more at lynn.edu.

About The Boca Regional Chamber

A 501(c)6 non-profit organization and the largest Chamber in Palm Beach County, with a membership presently composed of 1,500 companies representing 100,000 employees in South Palm Beach County and beyond. Since 1952, the Boca Regional Chamber has been enabling the community’s businesses to thrive by providing opportunities for leadership, networking, innovative business programs, education and community involvement. Our mission is to promote and sustain economic prosperity in South Palm Beach County.

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