Join Ascend Midwest for our annual Inspiring Across Generations (IAG) Conference in Chicago as we come together to move Forward with Purpose in 2026 and beyond! This signature event brings together professionals and emerging talent for a day of meaningful connections, thoughtful conversations, career advice, skill sessions, and practical insights.
Registration / check-in begins at 9AM, programming starts promptly at 9:30AM.
Off-site networking reception to follow. Explore the day’s sessions below:
Panel: Leading Through Volatility
This session will bring together senior leaders for a candid conversation on leading people through today’s uncertainty - from market instability to geopolitical risks to the accelerating pace of AI-driven disruption. Panelists will share how they are navigating tough calls at the top and translating that into practical guidance for teams on the ground.
Panel: Visible Leadership: Advancing Asian Voices at the Top
Research has shown that Asian American professionals are the least likely racial group to be promoted into management, despite being well-represented in entry-level roles - a pattern coined by author Jane Hyun as the “bamboo ceiling”. This panel brings together executives who have navigated that gap to share what actually moved the needle in their careers.
Building the Blueprint: A Fireside Chat with Grace Toh on Leadership, Legacy and the Future of a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture
This fireside chat features Grace Toh, a senior executive whose career reflects a sustained commitment to representation and institutional impact. In this conversation, she'll trace the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership journey, from early career lessons to the decisions that positioned her for impact at the highest levels. She'll also share the inside story of her latest endeavor, spearheading the efforts to bring the first national AAPI-focused museum to fruition.
Keynote & Workshop: Your Rejection, Your Superpower by Jia Jiang (Presented by Huron)
Through his closing keynote and interactive workshop, Jia will do a deep dive into the topics of resilience, rejection, and negotiation. After experiencing this workshop and embracing the Rejection Therapy® method, you will see and do everything differently. You will become more courageous and be inspired to open up more, sell harder, and innovate more creatively.
Admission
In Person—Student: $25 | Member: $100 | Non-Member: $200
Virtual—Student: $5 | Member: $25 | Non-Member: $50
Attire: Business Casual
Registration closes September 17th. Be sure to secure your spot!
Time Zone: Central
Please read the Ascend Terms of Registration and Participation carefully.
