2026 Uniting Leaders Conference

2026 Uniting Leaders Conference Keynotes

Joe Schmit is a 19-time Emmy Award–winning broadcaster, leadership speaker, and Minnesota Speakers Hall of Fame inductee who helps organizations build cultures of impact that drive loyalty.

Over a 40-year career at the same television station, Joe learned firsthand that loyalty isn’t demanded—it’s earned. His longevity and success were built on trust, consistency, and the ability to make intentional impact in everyday moments. Those real-world lessons now form the foundation of his work with leaders and teams across the country. Through powerful storytelling, humor, and practical tools, Joe shows leaders how culture is shaped one interaction at a time—and how small, intentional actions lead to stronger engagement, higher retention, and better performance. His programs don’t just inspire; they equip leaders with strategies they can use immediately. Joe is the author of Silent Impact, Impact Blueprint, and the children’s book The Right Thing to Do – The Joe Mauer Story, which has inspired an award-winning stage musical. Whether on stage, in the boardroom, or on screen, Joe’s mission is simple: help leaders create cultures people believe in—and refuse to leave.  https://joeschmit.com/

Dr. Jill Siler is a dynamic leader and educator with a passion for inspiring others to achieve their goals. With nearly a decade of service as Superintendent of Gunter ISD, Jill now serves as the Deputy Executive Director for Professional Learning at the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA), where she empowers leaders across the state. Her journey began in Rochester and Buffalo, NY, where she grew up before attending the University of Pittsburgh as a collegiate swimmer. Jill’s career in education took root as a teacher and coach in Pflugerville ISD, followed by administrative roles in Marble Falls ISD and Lake Travis ISD, where she served as a campus and district leader for eight years while earning her doctorate from the University of Texas.

As a superintendent, Jill faced significant challenges, including navigating a financial crisis early in her tenure. Her leadership not only stabilized her district but also earned recognition, including a TASA Honor Board designation for her school board and a National Blue Ribbon School award for one of her campuses. Jill’s innovative approach to leadership extends beyond her district. She served as Chair of the Future-Ready Superintendent Leadership Network (FRSLN) Design Team, fostering collaboration among forward-thinking leaders across Texas.

Jill’s passion for leadership development is evident in her work leading Texas’ Aspiring Superintendent Academy and First-Time Superintendents Academy, where she equips the next generation of educational leaders with the tools to succeed. A sought-after speaker at leadership and teacher conferences nationwide, Jill’s insights resonate with audiences seeking practical strategies for thriving in challenging times. Her book, Thrive Through The Five: Practical Truths to Powerfully Lead through Challenging Times, became a #1 Bestselling New Release in Education Administration and has earned multiple Eric Hoffer Awards, including the Montaigne Medal finalist.

Dr. Jill Siler’s story is one of resilience, innovation, and inspiration. Her sessions promise to leave attendees motivated, equipped, and ready to lead with purpose. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from one of Texas’ most impactful educational leaders!

Tentative Schedule

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2026

7:00 a.m. - Golf Tournament

9:00 a.m. - Registration Opens

9:00 a.m. - Western Kansas Leadership Academy Meeting

9:30 a.m. - Cornhole Tournament

11:00 a.m. - Brewery Lunch

1:00 p.m. - Pre-Conference Sessions

2:45 p.m. - Opening General Session with Keynote

4:00 p.m. - Vendor Showcase

THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2026

7:00 a.m. - Registration Opens

7:00 a.m. - Breakfast

8:00 a.m. - Breakout Sessions

9:15 a.m. - Breakout Sessions

10:30 a.m. - Breakout Sessions

11:15 a.m. - Lunch

12:45 p.m. - Breakout Sessions

2:00 p.m. - General Session with Keynote

3:15 p.m. - President's Reception

9:00 p.m. - Dueling Pianos

FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026

7:30 a.m. - Breakfast

8:30 a.m. - General Session