Speakers

Summer Jelinek is more than just a keynote speaker. She’s a seasoned professional with a knack for transforming organizational chaos into a well-orchestrated symphony. As an eSpeaker-certified virtual speaker and workshop trainer, she has spent over two decades honing her leadership skills, notably at Walt Disney World, the Disney Institute, H-E-B/Central Market and even a ski resort. Summer’s true passion lies in connecting with global audiences, particularly those intrigued by the nuanced art of leadership.

Offstage, Summer is a resident of the Dallas-Fort Worth area, sharing her home with her supportive husband, their charming daughter, her quirky brother and her two furry companions, Cricket and Adie, who might just have secret identities.

Academically, Summer boasts an MBA and a leadership certification from the HR.com No. 1-ranked master’s program at the Crummer Graduate School of Business, Rollins College, Winter Park, Fla. She's also a proud alum of the business management program at McNeese State University in Lake Charles, La.

Brace yourself for a no-holds-barred, authentic and engaging interaction that will leave you inspired and energized. After all, Summer brings a little bit of magic to everything she does.

Session

The Magic of Leadership
In-person, Afternoon Breakout Session (1:45 - 2:30 p.m.)

Jessica Whitehill and Cid Torres met on a Dallas College campus when they were both preparing for courses in our Culinary, Pastry, and Hospitality program. Cid knew right away he wanted to get to know “the cute girl” he met, and Jessica was intrigued by the “weird guy” in the bookstore.

After taking a few courses together, their relationship grew. They continued in the culinary program through the height of the pandemic and even got married with some of their culinary classmates standing next to each of them as attendants. Their wedding cake was made by Dallas College culinary alumni, and the cupcakes were made by a groomsman at the wedding.

By the end of 2023, Jessica and Cid will have earned three Dallas College degrees and six certificates between them.

Cid is continuing his culinary career at Medical City Plano, where he is assisting his chef in creating a new menu and helping with VIP meetings and board meeting dinners. His goal is to move up to management and hold a supervisory role in the future.

Jessica works at the Omni Las Colinas serving the important role of prep and line. She is cross-trained and assists at banquet services and larger events. Jessica is also working towards a position in management and serving in a supervisory role.

Session

General Session (10 - 11:45 a.m.)
Conference Day 2023 Agenda