Emerging Leaders Conference
7.00 Credits
Member Price $295.00
Price will increase by $50 on 8/1
Non-Member Price $355.00
Price will increase by $50 on 8/1
Overview
Are you looking to take your career to the next level? The ISCPA Emerging Leaders Conference is the premier opportunity to explore key skills and strategies needed to succeed in the constantly evolving, fast-paced work environment. Network with other CPAs and connect with industry leaders on valuable insights and guidance. Whether you're just starting out in your career or looking to take the next step, this conference is the perfect opportunity to gain new knowledge and discover tangible tactics on what it takes to lead.
Designed For
Emerging CPAs and accounting professionals
Objectives
Connect with peers, learn strategies, and gain a greater awareness of your leadership style and its impact on your organization and professional performance.
Thursday, August 14
Optional Session
- Yes, I would like a professional headshot
Whether you're updating your LinkedIn profile, creating a new business card, or just want to invest in your personal brand, be sure to take advantage of this valuable opportunity. Receive a high-quality professional headshot from Cherry Chiles Photography to make a lasting impression. Headshots are optional, but included in your registration fee. Available from 7:30-8:30 a.m.
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Welcome comments
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Discover Your Leadership Spark - Part 1
Leadership isn’t about a title—it’s about who you are and how you show up. In this engaging keynote, we’ll uncover the key elements that ignite your Leadership Spark: your values and superpowers. Just like a fire needs fuel, oxygen, and heat, leadership thrives when you align what matters most (your values) with what makes you exceptional (your superpowers).
Through thought-provoking stories, interactive moments, and practical strategies, you’ll learn how to lead with authenticity, confidence, and impact—whether you’re guiding a team, a company, or your own career. If you’re ready to step into your full leadership potential, this keynote will give you the tools and inspiration to make it happen.
Get ready to ignite your leadership, spark transformation, and lead in a way that feels both powerful and natural.
Speaker: Lynsey Mulder | Lynsey Mulder Consulting
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Discover Your Leadership Spark - Part 2
The dynamic conversation continues in part 2 with Lynsey Mulder
Speaker: Lynsey Mulder | Lynsey Mulder Consulting
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Professional Issues Update
Hear the latest and greatest updates in the profession you know and love, tailored just for you. Learn about state-wide and national initiatives ISCPA is exploring to position the profession for the future and address the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.
Speaker: Ardis Kelley | ISCPA interim CEO
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Peer Today Boss Tomorrow - Part 1
Speaker: Bob Chonka | Sollah
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Peer Today Boss Tomorrow - Part 2
Speaker: Bob Chonka | Sollah
This session is available to registrants only.
General Session
- Mastering Exceptional Leadership Skills
Throughout her career, Lindsay has had the opportunity to engage with several elite leaders and executives, as well as help develop many future leaders. During this time, she has identified a handful of skills, traits, and attributes that set certain individuals apart, making them stand out as elite. Lindsay aims to share these insights with the group of future leaders and guide them in creating a development plan to cultivate these skills on their own.
Speaker: Lindsay Pilgrim | Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Company
This session is available to registrants only.
Leader(s):
Leader Bios
Ardis Kelley, Interim CEO, Iowa Society of CPAs
Ardis Kelley, CPA is the Interim CEO of the Iowa Society of CPAs, leading the organization through a critical transition by ensuring stability, strengthening stakeholder relationships, and fostering a strong member community. In this role, she is focused on enhancing member engagement, supporting advocacy efforts, and positioning the organization for long-term success.
Previously, Ardis served as Interim CFO at Bank of Jabez, where she developed a financial roadmap, and as Chief Strategy Officer at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, where she led cross-departmental initiatives that generated new business and implemented the bank’s strategic plan. She also held the role of Chief Accounting Officer, overseeing financial reporting and data analytics. Her earlier career includes senior positions at Accenture, CNA, and AEGON USA Investment Management.
Committed to social impact and financial education, Ardis serves on multiple boards, including Des Moines Performing Arts, Iowa Public Radio, Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation, Des Moines Water Works Park Foundation, Bravo Greater Des Moines, the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Endow Urbandale and Obesity Awareness in Action.
Ardis holds a B.A. from UCLA and a Master of Accounting from USC and is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in California and Iowa, and member of the AICPA and Iowa Society of CPAs.
Bob Chonka, Sollah Interactive, LLC
My film and training experience began in 1989. Jon and I started Sollah in 2011 with a vision to create a new experience for adult learners. Our passion lies in creating programs that emotionally engage learners and transfer knowledge so that true communication and change can take place. We help organizations develop culturally competent workforces.
Lindsay Pilgrim, VP of Human Resources, Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Company
Lindsay Pilgrim has worked in strategic HR roles for over 20 years in industries ranging from healthcare, technology, distribution, and insurance. Currently, Lindsay serves as the Vice President of Human Resources for Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Group, where she oversees the HR functions for about 300 employees nationwide. Lindsay is originally from NE Iowa and holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa. In her spare time, Lindsay attends the activities for her 4 kids, while trying to squeeze in some boating and golfing in the summer months.
Lynsey Mulder, Mulder Consulting LLC
Lynsey Mulder is a dynamic speaker, accomplished coach, and the visionary behind SparkLife—a journey that has empowered individuals, teams, and organizations to unlock potential, ignite passion, and take inspired action. As a leading authority on business and life strategy, Lynsey combines her wealth of experience with a passion for helping others create intentional, fulfilling lives.
With a career spanning Fortune 100 C-suite leadership, founding her own company, and raising four amazing boys, Lynsey has a unique perspective on balancing ambition and life’s complexities. She splits her time between speaking at conferences, collaborating with organizations, and inspiring students on college campuses across the country. Lynsey also works one-on-one with individuals as an elite coach, holding three certifications and a reputation for helping clients achieve extraordinary results.
Known for transforming game-changing ideas into practical takeaways, Lynsey connects with audiences in a way that is relatable, energizing, and unforgettable. Her strategies are built on years of experience and are designed to empower others, elevate them to new levels, and inspire them to reach goals they once thought impossible.
Her keynotes and workshops are packed with engaging stories, high-energy exercises, and actionable tools that attendees can apply immediately—whether sparking new possibilities at work, transforming team culture, or reigniting personal growth. Lynsey has spoken at conferences, colleges, and companies nationwide, leaving a ripple effect of energized, motivated, and inspired attendees who are ready to create lasting change.
Non-Member Price $355.00
Member Price $295.00