It’s Lonely Up Here: Thriving, Not Just Surviving, in Leadership

Friday, October 24, 2025

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM CT

Location: MCCNO 343-345

Moderator(s)

Dayna R. Johnson, PE, F. SWE

Director of Technical Consulting
Ecolab
BOLINGBROOK, Illinois, United States

Speaker(s)

Lynn Davenport, MS BME

Engineering Director
Medtronic
New Brighton, Minnesota, United States
Holli Pheil

Director, Innovation Technical Program Management
Nike
Portland, Oregon, United States
Martine Stillman

VP of Consumer Products and Sustainable Design
Synapse Product Development, a Capgemini Company
Seattle, Washington, United States
Tricia Walker

Director, Global Operations Quality M&A
Medtronic
St. Louis Park, Minnesota, United States

"Climbing the corporate ladder" often comes with an unintended consequence — loneliness. As professionals rise through the ranks, they encounter fewer peers, greater responsibilities, and the need to uphold professional boundaries. This creates a sense of isolation at the top of the hierarchy, where the "ladder" narrows significantly. The higher you climb, the less opportunity there is for genuine, open connection with colleagues. For women, this challenge is even more pronounced. Gender bias, limited support, and the pressure to balance personal and professional expectations can deepen feelings of isolation. Research has shown that loneliness negatively impacts both mental and physical health, making it crucial to address these struggles, especially for those breaking glass ceilings. Join us as five Director-level women leaders share how they navigate loneliness while continuing to thrive and excel in their careers.

Learning Objectives:

Describe the impacts of loneliness in leadership on people's health.
Understand some root causes of isolation and lack of community.
Apply strategies to combat loneliness while climbing the corporate ladder.