Aspire Leadership: Next Level equips you to lead from your next higher level of self.

Join us virtually or in Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego on September 6-9, 2025 to learn to lead at your greatest capacity!

Leadership: possibly the most used buzz word in business today.

It has countless definitions and can be used to describe a behavior, a person, a role, a character trait, and much more. It’s no wonder many of us are a bit numb to it. However, leadership at its core is an essential competence for all professionals, one that all of us aspire to. Can you picture a world where everyone in your organization demonstrates leveled-up leadership in most, if not all, interactions? What would be possible? What could be achieved?

Administrative Professional Academy
Aspire Leadership works toward that vision by equipping you to lead at a higher level.

Aspire Leadership works toward that vision by equipping you to lead at a higher level.

Not a hierarchy level, but your next higher level of self. Which means you don’t need a title or promotion – we all can lead at a greater capacity today, right now. If you’ve been in the workforce for several years and are looking for your next step, next challenge, next opportunity, or next version of yourself, Aspire Leadership will help propel you in your journey to greatness.

Aspire Leadership

Aspire (v.) [əˈspī(ə)r]: to direct one’s hopes or ambitions toward achieving something.

Join us in the way that best fits your learning style and lifestyle needs.

Register by July 31, 2025, to receive $300 off!

Join as a member today to receive the special pricing! 

CAP Certified? Aspire Leadership: Next Level is worth 25 CAP recertification points, which includes pre-work and attendance at the post-conference sessions.

In-PERSON

$1,899

What’s included?

All materials and training sessions
Price includes Breakfast and Lunch Monday and Tuesday; Breakfast Wednesday
25 CAP Recertification Points

* Price reflects Early Bird rate for IAAP members. The Early Bird rate for non-members is $2,199.

virtual

$1,599

What’s included?

All materials and training sessions
Price includes food delivery gift card for lunch Monday and Tuesday
25 CAP Recertification Points

* Price reflects Early Bird rate for IAAP members. The Early Bird rate for non-members is $1,899.

dates and schedule

September 6-9, 2025

September 6, 2025

3:00 – 5:00 p.m. Registration

5:15 – 6:15 p.m. Aspire Networking and Connection Reception

September 7 – 8, 2025

8:15 a.m. – 4:45 p.m. In Session

September 9, 2025

8:15 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. In Session

1:30 – 4:30 p.m. Speed-Coaching and Mentoring Circles – Optional: Pre-Registration Required

Register 5 or more attendees and receive a 10% discount. To access this discount, please email us for more information.

ASPIRE LEADERSHIP ORGANIZATIONAL DISCOUNTS

Want to send a group of powerhouse administrative professionals from the same organization? Visit the link below to register your organization.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Administrative professionals have a unique role in business regardless of the industry and therefore have unique challenges and opportunities as well. The learning experiences at Aspire Leadership reflect that and include:

  • An executive trainer and coach who will deliver high-level content to help you excel at your goals
  • Trained administrative professional facilitators who will lead discussions and filter the content through an “administrative lens” for immediate applicability to your current role
Administrative Professional Course
Aspire Leadership
  • Immersive learning experiences that will not only help you immediately implement the learning upon your return to the office but will be memorable long-term as you create new behaviors and patterns
  • Pre-work and post-connection opportunities with the trainer, facilitators, and peers for maximum impact and long-term growth
  • Thought Leaders Collective: time to connect with others in similar industries for discussion and solution-mining
  • Intentional networking with your peers for connection and group learning time for real world solutions and examples
  • Optional small group speed-coaching and mentoring circles on focused relevant topics

KEY INTENTIONS AND FOCUS

NOTE: Belonging and inclusion are not only essential leadership competencies for every professional but also core tenets of IAAP’s commitment to DEI. All the intentions below will be taught through the lens of belonging and inclusion of and for all.

Authentic Professional Presence

Discover ways to uncover your authentic self and how to let your true self shine at the office confidently and impactfully.

Ownership, Stewardship, and Initiative

Discover the differences between ownership and stewardship, why differentiating them matters, and what role initiative plays in both.

Feedback 2.0

Discover why feedback is essential for our growth journey, how to view feedback as both information and a gift, and how to empathetically deliver feedback to others.

Crucial Conversations 2.0

Experience immersive situations to practice crucial conversations, how to show up as your best authentic self in those important moments, and how to make space for others to find ways to move forward.

Mindset Shifts [Tactical | Strategic | Relational]

Learn why these three facets are essential in leveled up leadership, how to train your brain to move from one to another intentionally, and how to recognize when each are necessary.

Work-Life Harmony

Learn why harmony is more attainable than balance in your day-to-day, how to find your own harmony and not someone else’s, and actional steps to set realistic boundaries, both with yourself and others, for true harmony.

Foundational Self-Awareness and EQ

Complete pre-work exercises to bring a foundational knowledge of self-awareness and emotional intelligence to Aspire for greater impact while you’re in sessions.

CONFERENCE TRAINER AND FACILITATORS

Danielle Adams

Danielle Adams-Wiltshire

PCC / trainer

Danielle N. Adams-Wiltshire, PCC, is a certified professional ICF-accredited coach, TED fellows coach, facilitator, trainer, restorative practice trainer, and public speaker.  Her areas of concentration in her coaching practice are business, career and professional development, personal improvement, relationship management, and leadership. Her most notable clients are members of the financial services, entertainment, nonprofit, higher education, hospitality, government, and management industries.

Administrative Professional Facilitators

(TBD)

Our facilitators, both in-person and virtual, are actively employed administrative professionals who have served in various roles throughout their career and are trained to not only facilitate discussion among attendees but also connect the learning and content provided by the trainer to your administrative role through real world examples and experience.

Amal Candido

Life, Leadership & Mindfulness Coach

Amal is a seasoned professional with a diverse background that spans finance, tech, legal, and non-profit industries. Known for her deep expertise in life, leadership, and mindfulness coaching and her significant contributions to executive administration, Amal has become an indispensable resource for C-suite executives and a beacon for those seeking guidance in personal and professional development. Her journey in the finance sector further amplifies her already extensive skill set, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and excellence.

READ MORE

Barrett Shaw

Principal Administrative Specialist at Mission Support and Test Services

Barrett Shaw works as a Principal Administrative Specialist at Mission Support and Test Services (MSTS),
a government contractor in Las Vegas, Nevada. He has over 20 years of experience as an administrative
professional in a government setting. He currently supports the Director for mission programs. He also
works as an expert trainer for Leoron Professional Development Institute, based in Dubai; teaching
Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) prep courses, along with other courses designed to teach
administrative professionals essential skills to help them excel in their career.

Jennifer Sanders

West Region Business Support Team Supervisor

Jennifer joined WTW in 2013 as a Business Support Specialist in the Retirement business of the Dallas office. In 2015 and 2020 she advanced to roles with the Client Management Group, supporting the Dallas Market Leader. She was promoted in 2023 to the role of Business Support Team Supervisor. She currently supports the NA Health, Wealth and Career Leader and offers insight and assistance to multiple cross-functional and inclusion and diversity teams.

READ MORE

TRAVEL AND LOCATION

The Gaslamp Quarter in San Diego is a vibrant mix of historic charm and modern flair, perfect for anyone looking to dive into the city’s energy. With its beautifully preserved Victorian architecture lining the streets, this 16-block district is a hotspot for foodies, night owls, and history buffs alike.

Whether you’re in the mood for upscale dining, a craft cocktail, or live entertainment, the Gaslamp has it all—from rooftop lounges offering skyline views to lively jazz clubs and rooftop bars. It’s also home to art galleries, theaters, and boutique shops, making it a versatile playground day and night. Plus, it’s just a short walk from the stunning waterfront. Whether you’re looking to dance the night away, soak in some culture, or enjoy a gourmet meal, the Gaslamp Quarter promises a San Diego experience that’s both chic and laid-back!

The US Grant Hotel is 3.1 miles from the San Diego International Airport (SAN).

The US Grant Hotel
326 Broadway
San Diego, California 92101
(619) 232-3121
Conference Room Block Rate: $299/night

Learn More about The US Grant Hotel

*Reserve your room by August 4, 2025, to receive the conference room block rate

Danielle Adams
Danielle N. Adams-Wiltshire, PCC, is a certified professional ICF-accredited coach, TED fellows coach, facilitator, trainer, restorative practice trainer, and public speaker. 

Her areas of concentration in her coaching practice are business, career and professional development, personal improvement, relationship management, and leadership. Her most notable clients are members of the financial services, entertainment, nonprofit, higher education, hospitality, government, and management industries.

With more than 15 years’ experience in retail banking, serving in multiple service, sales, business development, and leadership roles, Danielle has had uniquely valuable experiences across numerous areas of corporate influence.  A passionate advocate and a supporter of organizations that promote the economic independence and empowerment of women, youth and underrepresented members of her community, Danielle helps govern several nonprofit organizations.

Amal Candido
Life, Leadership & Mindfulness Coach

Amal is a seasoned professional with a diverse background that spans finance, tech, legal, and non-profit industries. Known for her deep expertise in life, leadership, and mindfulness coaching and her significant contributions to executive administration, Amal has become an indispensable resource for C-suite executives and a beacon for those seeking guidance in personal and professional development. Her journey in the finance sector further amplifies her already extensive skill set, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and excellence.

Amal is a certified administrative professional, CAPstone certified in Organizational Management, Meeting and event planning,  Records Management,  Human Resource Management, and an accredited coach practitioner.

Beyond her professional accolades, Amal’s passion shines brightest in her dedication to coaching and mentoring. Through her engaging blog and the insightful podcast “Distracted by Life,” she offers a treasure trove of wisdom on living authentically, embracing resilience, and turning setbacks into steppingstones for success. Her literary contributions, including “Authentic Leader” and “The Executive Assistant Guide to Survival,” highlight her desire to empower individuals at all levels of their careers. Amal’s work inspires leadership and growth and equips her audience with the tools to navigate the complexities of life and work with confidence and poise.

Contact information

Preferred Contact Email: [email protected]
Tel: 1+416-567-0474
Blogging Website:  www.myeablog.com
Podcast: Distracted by Life: Spotify, Amazon, Apple

Barrett Shaw
Principal Administrative Specialist at Mission Support and Test Services

Barrett Shaw works as a Principal Administrative Specialist at Mission Support and Test Services (MSTS), a government contractor in Las Vegas, Nevada. He has over 20 years of experience as an administrative professional in a government setting. He currently supports the Director for mission programs. He also works as an expert trainer for Leoron Professional Development Institute, based in Dubai; teaching Certified Administrative Professional (CAP) prep courses, along with other courses designed to teach administrative professionals essential skills to help them excel in their career. He has taught courses throughout the Middle East, including Dubai and several locations within Saudi Arabia.

Barrett earned his doctorate in organizational leadership in 2014. His dissertation explored the relationship between the perceived emotional intelligence of a leader and employee engagement among administrative professionals. Barrett also holds a master of science in Psychology and a bachelor of art in Theater Arts.

Barrett has been an active member of IAAP since 2008 and has held a number of leadership positions within the association, including serving as Chair of the Board of Directors from 2021-2023. He currently serves as a strategic advisor to the IAAP Governance and Leadership Committee (GLC). In his spare time, he enjoys traveling and spending time with his family.

Jennifer Sanders
West Region Business Support Team Supervisor

Background

Jennifer joined WTW in 2013 as a Business Support Specialist in the Retirement business of the Dallas office. In 2015 and 2020 she advanced to roles with the Client Management Group, supporting the Dallas Market Leader. She was promoted in 2023 to the role of Business Support Team Supervisor. She currently supports the NA Health, Wealth and Career Leader and offers insight and assistance to multiple cross-functional and inclusion and diversity teams.

Relevant Experience

With over 30 years of experience as an administrative professional, Jennifer demonstrates a wide variety of administrative skills. She excels at complex project management, assignments requiring extensive organization and attention to detail, and working as a strategic partner with her executives to deliver revenue growth and cultivate colleague engagement and development. Jennifer has worked in the professional services and manufacturing industries.

Education and Credentials

Jennifer holds an Associate of Applied Science in Office Management and Supervision from Harrison College (formerly Indiana Business College). She is a Certified Administrative Professional (CAP), with specialties in Human Resources (HR) and Organizational Management (OM), with International Association of Administrative Professionals (IAAP) and carries the Member of Excellence distinction. She is also a graduate of IAAP’s Aspire Leadership Academy for Executive Level Support. Jennifer has held numerous volunteer leader positions with IAAP and has published articles in OfficePro Magazine regarding administrative professional certification and allyship. She is the recipient of IAAP’s 2022 Strategic Partnership Award and has been nominated in the categories of Leadership and Loyalty with The Admin Awards where she serves as an Advisory Board Member in DFW. Jennifer is also a member of World Administrators Alliance (WAA) and American Society of Administrative Professionals (ASAP).

500 N. Akard Street, Suite 4300
Dallas, TX 75201
T 214.530.4430
M 907.987.4067
[email protected]