WBL Takes the Big Easy! Recapping the 2025 WBL Summit in New Orleans
We had an incredible time at the WBL Summit in New Orleans!
The Summit is such a special experience — not just for learning and growth, but, as one attendee put it, “the depth of connection to other leaders is genuine and unparalleled.”
Our members leave the Summit with lifelong relationships and the drive to continue inspiring change in our industry. Check out a recap of our time together below!
Sunday, Mar 16
The Summit kicked off with a relaxing afternoon at the Ritz-Carlton New Orleans, featuring spa sessions and one-on-one meetings. That evening, our welcome reception in the hotel’s courtyard set the tone for three days of intimate networking, reunions, and rich conversations!
Monday, Mar 17
Before sessions began, attendees connected over yoga, a networking walk, and breakfast. We kicked off with a welcome from our emcee, Carole Fisher, followed by an inspiring keynote from Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice on fearless leadership. Dr. Rice then joined Laurie McGraw to record an episode of the Inspiring Women podcast — keep an eye out for more episodes featuring Summit attendees over the coming weeks!
The day continued with a fireside chat highlighting Karen Lynch, former CEO of CVS Health, who shared insights on her impressive career. Next was an engaging payer-provider discussion with Dr. Joanne Conroy (Chair of the AHA) and Patrick Geraghty (Chair of AHIP), dynamic roundtable networking, and startup success stories from past Summit participants.
We ended with a lively evening reception where members met our WBL Fellows (leaders of innovative startups) and WBL Boundless Scholarship Honorees (leaders committed to advancing health equity) before heading to dinner, where conversation ranged from industry trends and business opportunities to planning get-togethers with new friends.
Tuesday, Mar 18
On Tuesday morning, Jennifer Moss and Kristin Apple shared insights into employee burnout and the future of healthcare. After topical discussion groups, attendees heard an enlightening talk from The Cigna Group’s Katya Andresen about personal reinvention. Last up, local NOLA trailblazers joined us for a timely panel on health equity, exploring strategies to improve care for underserved populations.
Once our main stage sessions concluded, WBL Board Program alumni got together for a check-in on their board searches. After a quick break, we split into two groups — one enjoyed another evening of networking and dinner at the Ritz-Carlton, while the other took part in a Second Line Parade and dine-around, experiencing some of the best cuisines NOLA has to offer! We ended the night with the Summit’s best-kept secret: a DJ dance party to let your hair down with new friends.
Wednesday, Mar 19
Our last day together wrapped up with three breakout sessions: winning business, building trust-based teams, and board leadership. These tailored discussions provided members with actionable takeaways to bring back to their workplaces.
In just three days, attendees expanded their networks, gained fresh insights, and left inspired for what’s next. We’re already excited to do it all again at the 2026 WBL Summit!
Save the Date: 2026 WBL Summit — Celebrating 25 years!
Join us April 20-22 in Orlando, FL, for WBL’s 25th anniversary celebration! Pre-register today to secure your spot. Regular registration opens this fall.
