UWF to host inaugural Leadership in the Age of AI conference

The University of West Florida will host the inaugural Leadership in the Age of AI Conference, designed for business, community and government leaders, on Friday, Nov. 7, 2025. The conference will be offered in person at the UWF Conference Center on the University's Pensacola campus.

"Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming every sector, and strong leadership is essential to responsibly harness its potential," said UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. "By bringing together experts and community leaders, this conference positions UWF as a catalyst for innovation, collaboration and preparing Northwest Florida to thrive in the age of AI."

A collaboration between the UWF Center for Cybersecurity, the Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz Center for Leadership and the Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business, the conference will include discussions, networking opportunities and expert speakers. Attendees will learn how to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come with integrating artificial intelligence into leadership roles while also connecting with local leaders.

The keynote speaker will be UWF Center for Cybersecurity Associate Vice President Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, presenting on how leaders can leverage AI to enhance impact and success. Panelists include Lewis Bear Company CEO David Bear, Innisfree Hotels President and CEO Ted Ent and Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz Founding Partner Doug Kreis. Diaz will also serve as a guest speaker at the conference.

"UWF is proud to be at the forefront of advancing ​AI to serve our region and beyond," El-Sheikh said. "Through this conference, we are enabling business, government and community leaders to not only understand AI, but to lead with it - driving innovation, strengthening competitiveness and ensuring our communities are prepared ​for an AI​-enabled future."

This conference will create an opportunity to stay ahead in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and leadership. The Leadership in the Age of AI conference will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with check-in from 8 to 9 a.m. While the event is free for attendees, space is limited, so registering early is recommended. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

For more information about the Leadership in the Age of AI conference and to register, visit the Eventbrite event webpage.