meet the Keynotes

Lori Armstrong, DNP, RN NEA-BC
CEO & Chief Clinical Officer, Inspire Nurse Leaders®

"Calling Each Other Forward: Peer‑to‑Peer Coaching, Accountability, and the Next Generation of Nurse Leaders"

We can no longer afford to leave nursing leadership development to chance.

In this powerful closing keynote, participants will explore how peer‑to‑peer coaching strengthens leadership capacity, builds trust, and creates sustainable pathways for succession planning. The future of nursing will not be shaped by titles alone , it will be shaped by how peers support, challenge, and coach one another.

This session clarifies the critical distinctions between coaching and mentoring, highlighting why coaching in its many forms is uniquely suited to today's complex healthcare environment. Drawing on the evidence-based Peer Coaching Model and practical frameworks, attendees will learn how to engage in meaningful conversations that promote accountability, growth, and professional excellence.

This keynote concludes with a call to action: to invest in ourselves, in each other, and in the future of nursing through intentional, values‑driven peer coaching practiced every day, at every level. 

Mike Hourigan, CSP
Author, Speaker, Consultant

"How to Negotiate with Anyone: Negotiation Skills for Nurse Managers"

In today’s healthcare environment, clinical excellence alone isn’t enough—nurse leaders must also be skilled communicators, negotiators, and conflict managers. This Opening Keynote session explores how the ability to navigate difficult conversations, resolve tension, and advocate effectively is just as critical as any clinical competency. Participants will learn practical strategies to manage conflict with confidence, negotiate for resources and support, and foster stronger, more collaborative teams. By strengthening these often-overlooked skills, nurse leaders can improve patient outcomes, enhance team performance, and create a more resilient and respectful workplace culture.

Don’t miss Mike’s fun and factual program designed to improve your negotiation and conflict resolution results.

Attendees will learn how to:

  • Be less intimidated when approaching a negotiation
  • Use professional negotiation tactics in everyday situations
  • Understand the four components of the negotiation process
  • Prepare for any negotiation and present from a position of strength

Mike returns in the afternoon to take the conversation beyond the keynote with an interactive session with table breakouts, lively discussion, and case scenarios designed to put your new negotiation skills into action. Come ready to collaborate, problem-solve, and sharpen your approach alongside your peers!

Interested in learning more or have a question?  Contact us!

Contact Us

SWPONL
461 Cochran Road, #246
Pittsburgh, PA 15228

412.344.1414
office@swponl.org

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