More than 300 attendees gathered at the historic Arizona Biltmore Hotel in Phoenix for The Policy Circle’s 2025 Leadership Summit and 10-Year Anniversary Celebration. The event, held October 22 through 24, celebrated a decade of women engaging in civic life, while looking ahead to the future of leadership in an age shaped by artificial intelligence. 
The Summit’s theme, Influence & Purpose: Navigating Leadership in the Age of Intelligence, explored how AI is transforming the way we work, lead, and connect. But beyond the sessions and speakers, the heart of the Summit was the connections made and conversations shared with members from across the country.
A WARM WELCOME IN THE DESERT
The celebration began on Wednesday with an evening reception sponsored by the Acton Institute, where attendees reconnected and forged new relationships.
EXPLORING THE FUTURE OF INTELLIGENCE
Thursday opened with “Welcome to the Age of Intelligence: The Future is Here” featuring Andrew Maynard, Professor and Director of the Future of Being Human Initiative at Arizona State University. His thought-provoking insights set the stage for discussions on innovation, ethics, and human potential.
Other sessions covered topics ranging from emerging threats in the cyberworld to how AI is reshaping education. Attendees also experienced a Policy Circle Roundtable in action during “Tech Policy Unplugged.” Not only did the session demonstrate The Policy Circle’s Conversation Model in action, but guests also experienced it firsthand at their tables as they discussed the topic.
At lunch, “Digital Dollars: The Future of Money” brought together experts from the tech and finance industries to discuss how digital currencies and fintech are reshaping financial systems. Guests got to see technology in action when they needed a caffeine fix. A robot barista was nearby to make an iced latte or serve a hot cup of coffee.
RECOGNIZING WOMEN WHO LEAD
A highlight of the Summit was the presentation of The Policy Circle Awards.
This year’s recipients of the Civic Trailblazer Award embody The Policy Circle’s mission through active civic engagement. Sharon Sedlar and Becki Uccello, both graduates of The Policy Circle’s civic leadership program, have turned their advocacy into real impact.
Sharon, founder of PA Families for Education Choice, has been a leading voice for education freedom in Pennsylvania, ensuring parents’ perspectives are included in state policy. Becki, a teacher and Circle Leader from Missouri, helped advance school choice legislation expanding scholarships for students with disabilities and underserved communities.
The Mary Beth Weiss Catalyst Award honors members who model what it means to lead with purpose and create tangible impact in their communities. This year’s recipient, Robin Littau, is a Coast Guard veteran, small business owner, and mother of four whose journey demonstrates how civic knowledge fuels confidence and action.
The Circle Leader Award recognized the Fort Wayne Circle, led by Circle Leaders Amanda Muldoon, Jamee Lock, and Lindsay Hannah, for its lasting impact and commitment to fostering civic dialogue and community connection since 2017. The Fort Wayne Circle also appeared in a new video about the power of Circles, which debuted at the Summit.
SPARKING NEW IDEAS AND INSPIRATION
Thursday afternoon’s Spark Zone sessions offered hands-on learning in areas such as advocacy, AI tools for engagement, and leadership development.
The evening continued with a reception sponsored by FIRE, followed by dinner with a keynote address from Michelle “MACE” Curran, former U.S. Air Force Thunderbird pilot. Her story of courage and resilience inspired attendees to embrace challenges and lead with confidence.
HONORING A DECADE AND LOOKING AHEAD
During Thursday’s dinner, founders Sylvie Légère, Angela Braly, and Kathy Hubbard were honored for their vision and leadership. In 2015, they launched The Policy Circle to amplify women’s voices in policy discussions and civic engagement, grounded in the belief that freedom, entrepreneurship, and personal responsibility help communities flourish.
As they reflected on ten years of impact, a major announcement looked toward the future: Rebecca Painter was introduced as the new CEO of The Policy Circle, ushering in an exciting next chapter for the organization.
CONTINUING THE CONVERSATION
Friday morning’s sessions wrapped up two days of dynamic learning and connection. From AI and digital innovation to civic leadership and personal growth, the Summit reflected the energy and purpose of The Policy Circle community.
Videos of select sessions are now available on The Policy Circle Community.
As the Summit came to a close, attendees left energized by the ideas shared and the relationships built. The conversations on technology, leadership, and civic engagement underscored how The Policy Circle continues to inspire women to take informed action in their communities.
Thank you from The Policy Circle Team!
