About the Annual Level Up Conference

Fuel your fire at Level Up, a conference designed to ignite your passion and empower your growth. Ignite, amplify, or level up your career with inspiring talks, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities that spark real momentum and help you unlock your full potential. This is your chance to build practical skills, expand your network, and connect with like-minded individuals.

Date: November 14th

Time: 8:00 am – 3:00 pm

Location: NSU Student Union, 350 Sam Sibley Drive, Natchitoches, LA 71457

Conference energy Workshops and learning Networking moments Venue and vibe

What to Expect

  • Keynote Kickoff — Expect a powerful message on growth, purpose, and owning your next career phase—wherever you are in your career.
  • Choose Your Track Workshops — Targeted sessions tailored to your career stage. Designed to help you grow, connect, and level up with confidence.
  • Networking Opportunities — Connect with other professionals and expand your business network.
  • Visit & Vibe Stations — Explore vendor booths, discover local resources, and unwind with adult coloring, chair yoga, and community connections.

2025 Track Workshops:

  • Level 1: Ignite — For those just getting started, this track lights the spark with resume labs, LinkedIn makeovers, and workplace survival kits.
  • Level 2: Elevate — For professionals ready to turn up the volume, this track powers up productivity, communication, and a personal brand presence.
  • Level 3: Lead — For seasoned leaders leveling up their impact, this track hones in on team management, delegation, and culture-building strategies.

Ticket Information

  • Members: $55
  • Non-Members: $75
  • College Students: $30

2025 Keynote

Keynote Speaker: Steven Shook, PhD

Steven Shook, PhD, is a dynamic leadership consultant, facilitator, and speaker known for his engaging and transformative approach to developing leaders and teams. A native of Stuttgart, Arkansas, and now based in New Orleans, Louisiana, Steven brings over a decade of experience in leadership development, organizational psychology, and change management.

He most recently served as Director of the Center for Leadership Development at the University of Central Arkansas and now leads Shake It Up Consulting while also facilitating with LEADEROLOGY in Southern California. Steven holds a PhD in Organizational Leadership from The Chicago School of Professional Psychology and an MBA from the University of Central Arkansas.

Through his work, Steven has designed and delivered powerful workshops and training programs focused on leadership excellence, mindset transformation, team development, strategic planning, emotional intelligence (EQi), and communication. His experience spans industries as diverse as higher education, healthcare, technology, government, construction/manufacturing, non-profits, and faith-based organizations.

Known for his high-energy style and practical insights, Steven equips leaders and organizations to navigate complexity, build trust, and achieve lasting, transformational outcomes.

Additional Speakers

Ignite Track Speakers Elevate Track Speakers Lead Track Speakers
Ignite Track Sponsor
BOM Bank Logo
Elevate Track Sponsor
Cane River National Heritage Area Logo
Lead Track Sponsor
Economic Development Logo
Spark Sponsor
CVB Logo