About Our 2025 Presenters

 

“Be brave. Be curious. Be kind.”

2025 Keynote Speaker
Katie Harnetiaux

Katie Harnetiaux is the President and Co-Owner of USL Spokane, an organization based in Spokane, WA, which fields two professional soccer teams – the women’s Division One USL Super League team, Spokane Zephyr FC, playing at the highest division of women’s soccer in the United States, and the men’s professional USL League One team, Velocity FC. Katie is currently the only female president of a professional soccer club that includes both men’s and women’s teams. As President of USL Spokane, Katie oversees the company’s operations across all verticals and builds upon the current organization and revenue structure. She focuses on strengthening the brand’s product offering, expanding the fan base, extending community partnerships, and growing advocacy and engagement. This includes establishing new revenue streams, increasing monetization opportunities, and leveraging her deep retail business and brand marketing knowledge to create new and engaging experiences for players and fans. With extensive experience in global business leadership, retail category management, and eCommerce, Katie is passionate about building strong brands and businesses and developing people. She is also deeply dedicated to her three children and husband, with family being her primary motivator and anchor of support.

 

“I believe that some of the most important things in our lives are not defined by what titles we’ve held, but by what we’ve done for others. I want my career to be highlighted by the lives I’ve helped touch through the gifts I’ve been given.”

Kylie Glendenning

Kylie Glendenning is a driven advocate and emerging leader in the fight against sexual exploitation. Kylie is achieving remarkable milestones, including completing her Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. In January, Kylie will embark on a journey to further her impact by pursuing her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. As Miss Tri-Cities 2025 and former Miss Connell 2022, Kylie has demonstrated a deep commitment to service. She's completed a half marathon for charity, worked in advocacy counseling at a pregnancy center, and now contributes full-time to an anti-trafficking organization. Her outreach includes speaking engagements at community groups, Boys & Girls Clubs, and schools, where she educates youth about trafficking and prevention strategies. Additionally, Kylie has spearheaded numerous charitable initiatives, such as creating therapeutic care packages for sex-trafficked survivors and street outreach programs to feed the homeless. She is also the creator and host of “The Freedom Project Podcast,” a successful podcast where she interviews local politicians, law enforcement, and social service workers to explore and address sexual exploitation issues within the community.

SESSION: The Power of Passion: Young Voices, Global Impact
Girls will explore how their passions can be harnessed to solve some of the world’s most pressing issues, such as human trafficking, world hunger, and humanitarian crises. I’ll share my personal journey of how following my passions in pageantry has allowed me to make a real impact in the fight against human trafficking. This workshop will inspire girls to discover what they care deeply about, identify ways they can take action, and show them how their unique talents—whether through art, leadership, or service—can contribute to making a real difference in the world.

 

Victoria Sattler

Born in Manila, Philippines, Victoria has a passion for serving her community. After completing her degree in Communications, she immigrated to the US where she spent over 15 years working for a luxury resort training employees in the US and across Canada, Mexico, and Costa Rica before relocating to Spokane. Victoria currently works at Spokane Community College as an English as a Second Language (ESL) instructor to refugees and immigrants while serving as the department’s employment specialist.

SESSION: Dream It, Be It: Turning Visions into SMART Goals
You will learn the ABCs of goal setting in this fun, engaging, and interactive class using SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, and Time-Bound). We'll use examples to ensure your road map to success gets you to your ultimate destination.

Why is this important? The skills you gain will be your superpowers for the goals you identify in the future. Whether you dream of becoming an astronaut, scientist, teacher, or entrepreneur, this session will take out the guesswork of where to even start. Join us for Dream It, Be It: Turning Visions into SMART Goals—a workshop where your dreams take center stage!

 

“Investing in and empowering the youth of today will prepare them for future roles as leaders in their communities, careers, local government and beyond. Our youth is the greatest asset we have available to us and providing them with the tools they need to be successful long term is my passion.”

Shawna Parry

Shawna Parry has dedicated over 12 years to leadership roles, with the last 8 years focused on successfully leading teams in Employment and Housing Services. As the Eastern WA Area Director for Compass Career Solutions, Shawna is driven by a commitment to authentic and servant leadership, fostering a culture of motivation and passion within her teams as they work to support and strengthen their local communities. Shawna is particularly focused on empowering employees and leaders while enhancing program services and outcomes. Shawna finds overseeing programs that serve those most in need within our communities to be the most rewarding. Shawna has two adult daughters she is very proud of - they are strong leaders in their lives and careers.

SESSION: Leading with the Heart: Effective Leadership in the "Helping" Careers
Personal boundaries are critical to successful leadership in the "helping" careers. You will learn tools that will empower you to understand, create and implement healthy boundaries through goal setting, practice scenarios and stories. You will learn strategies to strengthen listening and communication skills that will enhance learning, healthy relationships and will help develop a foundation for strong leadership skills now and into your future.

 

“My secret to success isn't grit, determination, or perseverance. These are all important and have gotten me far, but the most critical ingredient to success is connection with others.”

Dr. Kat Hudon

Dr. Kat Hudon is a physician who is equally passionate about her combined careers as a pediatric hospitalist, a business owner and medical director, medical educator, and leader in academic medicine. She is passionate about the well-being of children and families, the development and empowerment of women as leaders in their field, and the prevention and management of burnout. In addition to her professional roles, Dr. Hudon serves on the board of Ronald McDonald House Charities, loves spending time outdoors and traveling the world with her husband and three wonderful children, and probably drinks a little too much coffee.

SESSION: Careers in Health & Wellness: Blending Passion with Purpose
An exploration of various careers within health and wellness where we discuss the intersections of medicine, wellness, entrepreneurship, and advocacy. We will look at what it means to pursue a meaningful career in healthcare, while building an identify outside of a career, and regularly reframing goals and trajectories within the context of our values.

 

"Behind every successful woman is a tribe of other successful women who have her back."

Amber Pike

Amber is a graduate student at Gonzaga University, pursuing a Master of Business Administration. She is passionate about volunteering and advocating for asthma awareness, having been awarded the Alpha Pi Phi International Philanthropy Award. Additionally, she is an active competitor in the Miss America Organization and was the first runner-up at Miss Washington for two consecutive years. Amber is also a violinist and performed at the Sydney Opera House in 2018.

SESSION: EmpowerHER: Sisterhood in Strength
Sisterhood extends far beyond your time in Girl Scouts! In this workshop, participants will explore effective strategies for supporting, uplifting, and encouraging one another while making a positive impact in the community. Whether it’s attending a friend's community concert or volunteering together, you will discover various ways to be a leader and a steadfast ally. Join Amber to strengthen your sisterhood and enhance your community involvement!

 

“I know supporting girls and their dreams is important and we have to give them the tools, mentors, and support they need to do so. As a Soroptimist we focus on educational support women and girls economic empowerment to change their lives.”

Becky McGinty

Becky is currently the owner of Committed Accounting Services LLC. As the wife of a retired military veteran, she has traveled extensively and enjoyed living in many diverse communities. The mother of three grown children and 7 grandchildren, Becky understands that discovering your dreams and passions while trying to navigate a career path can be daunting.

As a Soroptimist for the last 15 years, Becky has dedicated many volunteer hours to the Soroptimist mission to transform the lives of women and girls through education, empowerment and enabling opportunities.

SESSION: Dream It, Be It - Discovering Your Dreams
Want to make a Dream Journal for your future? Who do you look up to? What values and qualities do they have that you admire? Decorate your own journal to help you set your goals and dreams, inspired by the traits you admire in these individuals. You will take the journal with you after class.

 

“Be comfortable with who you are and know you can achieve the goals you set your sights on.”

Cpt. Tracie Meidl & Jacqui MacConnell

Tracie Meidl grew up in the community she loves (Spokane!), graduating from Ferris High School and Eastern Washington University. She volunteered for the Spokane Police Department while in high school and discovered her passion for law enforcement and, 35 years later, she is a Captain in the department. Tracie has worked in various capacities within the Spokane Police Department; Volunteer, Field Training Officer, K9 Handler, Firearms and Academy Instructor, Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Community Outreach, Internal Affairs, South Precinct and Patrol Captain, and currently serves as the Investigation Division Captain. Tracie was honored to receive the Girl Scout Woman of Distinction Award in 2022. She has been married to her husband, Craig, for 27 years and they have two adult children; one who serves his community in law enforcement and the other who will be serving her country in the military.

Ms. MacConnell’s father was a US Marine when she was born so she was born in Okinawa, Japan. She moved around in her youth and graduated high school in Boise, Idaho. After graduating high school she moved to Arizona where she attended ASU. Although she initially majored in Business Management, she later switched to Criminal Justice. Although she had a desire to become an attorney, she did a ride-along with Phoenix PD, loved it and decided to be a police officer. She was hired by Phoenix PD about 10 days after graduating college. Ms. MacConnell retired from the Phoenix Police Department after working there for 20 years. She did two more years in Arizona Law Enforcement before moving to Washington where she took on her first civilian role as the Director of Strategic Initiatives for the Spokane Police Department. Ms. MacConnell has published two books for Spanish law enforcement. She has her undergraduate and a Master’s Degree. She has had an accomplished career as a law enforcement officer and as a civilian working as part of the Spokane Police Department’s Executive Staff, she works with the Chief to positively impact law enforcement in Spokane.

SESSION: You Could Be a Police Officer, Too!
Cpt. Meidl and Director MacConnell will be discussing how to become a police officer, as well as the civilian roles that are needed in law enforcement. We will talk about our careers and the unique opportunities a career in law enforcement provides. We will discuss unique traits that women possess that help us succeed in law enforcement and benefit the communities we serve. Having a diverse police department helps create and maintain connectivity with the community. It is important for young women (and any youth) interested in law enforcement to understand the requirements of becoming a police officer to assist in making wise choices as they prepare to reach an age where they can apply. Women can serve in law enforcement in a variety of roles which includes becoming a police officer or taking on one of the other many civilian positions needed for a well-rounded police department.

 

“My personal motto is work hard, play hard!”

Chantel Black

Chantel is the Director of Admissions and Registration/Registrar at Spokane Community College, a role she has held for over seven years. She has spent the last 22 years of her career working in both four-year and community colleges supporting students in achieving their dreams. She has a Bachelor’s degree in Theology and a Master’s degree in Adult and Organizational Learning. She is also part of Leadership Spokane Class of 2025. When not at work she can often be found traveling, camping, knitting, or enjoying time with friends and family.

SESSION: Rise and Thrive Through Your First Year of College
Starting college can be intimidating and even scary, but also exciting! Learn my tips on how to thrive during your first year of college and rise up by taking advantage of the opportunities and adventures that await. This will include where and how to get help when you need it, how to get involved or meet people, the benefits of being a work-study student, and much more.

 

“There is something very special about sharing nature with other people.”

Liz Palfini

Liz Palfini has been working in the National Resource sector for over twenty years. She has experience in a wide variety of locations including zoos and State Parks. Liz has a Bachelor of Science in Ornamental Horticulture as well as a Master of Science in Botany and Education. Liz has managed education volunteers in many settings, delivered outdoor education programs, trained interpretive rangers, managed nature centers and led the day-to-day operations of State Parks. Accountability and creating personal connections are passions Liz incorporates into her leadership style. Liz is currently the Park Manager of Farragut State Park in North Idaho.

SESSION: Careers on the Wild Side
Girls will discover the wide variety of career choices available to them when nature is their passion. They will discuss important education decisions, opportunities to explore while in school, and opportunities for advancement. Girls will get a chance to discuss how they can make a difference either person to person or policy to policy.

 

“I think being a woman is my superpower. I’m a mom, a business owner and someone who works very closely with people’s confidence every single day. I’m honored that God gave me a platform to influence the way people feel about themselves.”

Danielle Nishiyama

With 18 years in the beauty industry, Danielle Nishiyama has mastered the art of creating confidence. Known as a Consultation Queen and Salon Coach, Danielle specializes in empowering others through precision haircuts, detailed color work, seamless extensions, and her unmatched communication skills. Behind the chair, she mentors her salon team and clients, ensuring every interaction is a moment of transformation. Danielle’s journey in beauty taught her an essential truth: confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build. Through her work as a speaker and mentor, she’s passionate about helping young women discover their inner strength and potential. In this live engagement, Danielle will share her story of turning challenges into triumphs, weaving her professional expertise with practical tools to inspire confidence in young women. Her goal is simple: to show the next generation that with the right mindset, self-belief, and resilience, they can accomplish anything they set their minds to. Join Danielle for a powerful and uplifting session designed to spark confidence and inspire young women to dream boldly and believe in themselves.

SESSION: Creating Confidence
Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s something you build! Join Danielle Nishiyama, a salon owner, educator, and mentor with 18 years in the beauty industry, for an inspiring and interactive workshop designed for young women ages 12-16. Through storytelling, hands-on activities, and real-life tips, Danielle will teach the foundations of confidence: knowing your strengths, embracing growth, and supporting others. Participants will learn how to turn self-doubt into self-belief, reframe challenges as opportunities, and develop daily habits to grow their confidence. This workshop is fun, empowering, and packed with actionable strategies to help young women feel strong, capable, and ready to shine. Walk away with a confidence journal, new tools for success, and the motivation to believe in yourself! Let’s build confidence together—because you’ve got what it takes!

 

“When I founded Trending Northwest, I wanted it to be more than just a media outlet – I wanted to develop a vibrant part of the Inland Northwest’s cultural landscape. My mission with my dynamic team is to bring local stories, businesses, and events to life in a way that truly resonates with our community. Whether through stunning visuals or compelling videos, we’re all about making sure the stories we tell aren’t just seen, but felt.”

Erin Peterson

Erin Peterson, owner, publisher, and editor-in-chief of Trending Northwest magazine, grew up in Post Falls, Idaho and became a professionally certified educator – earning the Provost’s Award for academic achievement and community service from Lewis-Clark State College. Now she is an award-winning local influencer, podcaster and digital strategy educator with a passion for equity and inclusion. Erin has been published and featured in a wide variety of local publications including the Spokane Journal of Business (including a Rising Star Award in 2024), Spokesman Review, The Inlander, and has served as an editor at Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living magazine. If you want to learn more about how she is making an impact right here in the Northwest, give her a follow on Instagram or Facebook.

SESSION: Modern Media Revolution- Why YOUR Story Matters
In a world where everyone’s scrolling, your story deserves to get noticed. This workshop is your insider’s guide to creating content that pops online—from powerful videos that spark emotion to modern storytelling photography that really connects to your stories. Learn the latest trends in digital media and marketing while discovering the tools that make your message impossible to ignore. Join us to build confidence, creativity, and leadership through the lens of modern media. From viral video, to writing with and without AI, to creating an online movement, you’ll leave ready to use modern storytelling to share your passions and inspire change in your world.

 

"The work of today is the history of tomorrow, and we are its makers."

-Juliette Gordon Low

Mackenzie Priest

Mackenzie is passionate about helping to create a better YOU for the best US. At Eastern Washington University she earned a degree in Outdoor Recreation Leadership and Experiential Education, fostering her appreciation of hands-on learning and the great outdoors! Mackenzie is also a three time certified yoga instructor. She has had the privilege of leading yoga classes since November 2017 and has taught over 2,000 classes, including KIDS yoga, which is incredibly rewarding. Now Mackenzie works at Girl Scouts of Eastern Washington and Northern Idaho as the Community Engagement Specialist for Spokane and Stevens county striving everyday to lead with courage, confidence, and character!

SESSION: Strong Hearts, Calm Minds
Discover with Mackenzie the power of strength and serenity in this engaging yoga workshop! Through creative poses, teamwork activities, and mindfulness games, we will explore how to build strong hearts and calm minds. Girls will learn how to stay grounded, focused, and confident while having fun and connecting with their peers. This session is perfect for fostering resilience, self-awareness, and a love for movement. No yoga experience required - just bring your curiosity and energy! Let's move, breathe, grow and RISE together!

 

“The liberties of none are safe unless the liberties of all are protected.”

- William O. Douglas

Sydney Walter

Sydney is a criminal defense attorney from Spokane, Washington. She took part in the running start program, attending Spokane Community College her junior and senior years of high school. She attended Eastern Washington University for her undergraduate education and the University of Idaho for law school. She earned her J.D. in 2020. She began her legal career in Hailey, Idaho where she clerked for Fifth District Judge Ned Williamson. After her clerkship, she moved to Boise, Idaho where she worked at the Ada County Public Defenders office as a trial attorney. She recently moved back to Spokane and is currently an attorney at the Office of Counsel for the Defense. In her spare time, Sydney enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her family.

SESSION: Introduction to Public Defense: Career Pathways and Insights
Interested in a career in law and public defense? Join Sydney for a workshop exploring the critical role of public defenders and how to pursue a career in this field. We'll cover:

  • The Role of Public Defense: Learn about the importance of public defenders in ensuring justice for all.

  • Pathways to Becoming an Attorney: Discover the educational steps to pursue law school and a career in public defense.

  • Skills and Qualities of a Public Defender: Understand the key skills needed and what a typical day looks like.

  • Q&A Session: Get a chance to ask questions about careers in law and public defense.

This workshop is perfect for aspiring attorneys or anyone curious about law and social justice. Learn how you can make a difference through public defense!

 

“The USL Super League and Spokane Zephyr FC will give opportunity to hundreds of talented woman athletes, coaches, administrators, and staff members to pursue a career in professional soccer. And the level of play – higher than any we’ve ever seen in Spokane – will wow our fans, inspire our youth, and grow our economy.”

- Katie Harnetiaux

USL Spokane- Zephyr Players

Zephyr, which means “a wind from the west,” conveys the power of this team – not only on the field but also as a force for change in the community and country. As one of eight inaugural teams in the new Division I USL Super League, Spokane Zephyr FC will dramatically expand opportunities for women to pursue careers in professional soccer. The new league has launched as a first division league, reflecting its commitment to the highest standards in American soccer and a collective vision to be a global leader in women’s soccer on and off the field.

SESSION: Healthy as a… Soccer Player!
USL Spokane's session will be a series of games that ultimately educate girls about how to maintain Health and Wellness as a female athlete. The Zephyr FC players will show the girls in attendance how to keep their bodies strong, minds strong, and maintain a balanced existence. Through personal stories of their own and games that coincide, Zephyr's goal is to leave every young girl feeling empowered to take control of their health both in and out of the sports world.