Excellence Is Required Conference

The Excellence Is Required Conference is a one-day professional development experience designed for girls and young women ages 16–25, focused on professionalism, personal branding, workplace readiness, and self-care. Hosted by IMPACT, this conference builds on more than 15 years of experience delivering life skills, career preparation, and leadership development programming to students across Illinois and beyond.

This year, the conference represents a changing of the guard—a literal passing of the baton to the younger generation. While the event is designed for youth, it warmly welcomes the older generation of women—mothers, aunts, mentors, and community leaders—who bring their daughters, nieces, and mentees to share in this transformative experience. Together, these generations create a dynamic environment where knowledge, guidance, and inspiration flow from those who have paved the way to those who are stepping into their purpose.

Through IMPACT, we have had the privilege of reaching thousands of young people in classrooms, auditoriums, and community spaces, equipping them with essential tools for college readiness, career exploration, effective communication, and life preparation. This conference expands that work by creating a space where young women can gain practical skills, confidence, and exposure to professional expectations in today’s workforce.

Macy’s has committed to serving as a brand sponsor for the Excellence Is Required Conference, reinforcing the event’s emphasis on professionalism and career preparation. Additional sponsorship opportunities will be extended to local businesses, with a specific invitation for employers to sponsor their employees’ participation as an investment in workforce development and talent cultivation.

The Excellence Is Required Conference is more than an event—it is a call to raise standards, expand access, and ensure that young women are prepared to show up with confidence, competence, and excellence in every space they enter. It is a celebration of legacy, mentorship, and the intentional passing of knowledge from one generation to the next.

IMPACT’s offerings create a continuum of empowerment and professional growth for women and young people at every stage of their journey. The Workplace Readiness Initiative prepares high school, college, and young professionals with the skills, confidence, and real-world experience they need to succeed in the workforce. The Transcend Signature Launch & Growth Package supports seasoned professionals who are ready to reinvent themselves, launch new ventures, and take their careers or business ideas to the next level.

The Excellence Is Required Conference serves as the bridge between these two worlds—a celebration of unity, mentorship, and excellence across generations. This annual event brings together young women, their mentors, and the professional community to cultivate confidence, leadership, and professional presence. It is a gathering that honors legacy, promotes skill development, and inspires women to embrace bold new chapters in their personal and professional lives, no matter their age, background, or experience.

Together, these programs reflect IMPACT’s commitment to

preparing,

supporting,

and elevating

women and young professionals, creating opportunities for

growth,

independence,

and excellence

in every space they enter.

Whether preparing students for their first job, empowering professionals to launch their own business, or connecting generations at the conference,

IMPACT is dedicated to helping women reimagine their path, embrace transformation, and pursue their fullest potential.

Let's Connect