The University of West Florida is set to host its first Leadership in the Age of AI Conference on Friday, November 7, 2025, at the UWF Conference Center in Pensacola. This event targets business, community, and government leaders, emphasizing the vital role of leadership in the evolving AI landscape. UWF Interim President Manny Diaz Jr. highlighted the conference’s aim to position UWF as a leader in innovation and collaboration, preparing Northwest Florida for the AI era.
The conference, a joint effort by UWF’s Center for Cybersecurity, the Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz Center for Leadership, and the Lewis Bear Jr. College of Business, will feature discussions, networking, and expert speakers. Attendees will explore the integration of AI in leadership roles and connect with local leaders. Dr. Eman El-Sheikh, Associate Vice President of the UWF Center for Cybersecurity, will deliver the keynote on leveraging AI for leadership success. Additional speakers include David Bear, CEO of Lewis Bear Company, Ted Ent, President and CEO of Innisfree Hotels, and Doug Kreis, Founding Partner of Aylstock, Witkin, Kreis and Overholtz.
El-Sheikh emphasized the conference’s role in equipping leaders to drive innovation and competitiveness in an AI-enabled future. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., with registration starting at 8 a.m. While attendance is free, early registration is advised due to limited space. Breakfast and lunch will be provided. More information and registration are available on the Eventbrite event page.
