The Global Summit
Date: Sept. 17, 2026
Venue: 48 Wall Street, Lower Manhattan
More details coming soon!
Corporate Governance for a Changing World
Join us at the 2026 Global Summit, where influential board directors and global leaders convene to shape the future of corporate governance.
We’ll focus on critical issues impacting boardrooms globally, from geopolitical risk and shifting supply chains, governing data and emerging tech, to activist pressure, and the future of boardroom resilience in an interconnected world.
For sponsorship opportunities, email Director of Development Shane Cullen at shane@5050wob.com.
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The Must-Attend Global Gathering of the Year!
September 18, 2025
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Thank You to Our 2025 Sponsors
Official Airline
Strategic Research Partner
Emerald Sponsor
Platinum Sponsor
Silver Sponsors
Exclusive Data Partner
2025 Featured Speakers
Leading Voices in Governance
Agenda
Corporate Governance for a Changing World
In an era of rapid transformation, corporate boards must navigate complex challenges to remain resilient, effective, and forward-thinking. The 50/50 Women on Boards Global Summit will explore key governance strategies, addressing pressing issues such as activism, reputation management, and the evolving role of board leadership.
8:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Strategic Networking
Breakfast & Table Conversations
Begin your day with breakfast and curated table conversations to connect with leaders and corporate directors.
9:00 – 9:20 a.m.
Welcome and Opening Research
Global Governance Insights
Discover the latest research shaping boardrooms worldwide, setting the day for strategic insights and learning.
9:20 – 10:05 a.m.
Keynote Led by RANE’s Rodger Baker
Strengthening Oversight: Risk Management and Board Resilience
This keynote will equip directors to think globally about risk through the lens of geopolitical foresight, cross-border tensions, and long-term instability. Learn how boards can strengthen oversight and guide enterprise-wide resilience by anticipating disruption and embedding a proactive risk culture in a changing world.
Speakers include: Rodger Baker
10:05 – 10:55 a.m.
Panel
Navigating Global Markets: Trade, Tariffs, and Supply Chain Strategies
As global disruptions reshape business models, this panel will explore how boards can navigate the practical complexities of trade, tariffs, and supply chain shifts across regions. Panelists will share how directors are guiding companies through regulatory changes, sourcing challenges, and new market risks, while seizing opportunities for growth and operational agility.
10:55 – 11:10 a.m.
Networking Break
11:10– 12:00 p.m.
Panel
Reputation & Response: How Boards Navigate Shareholder Activism
As shareholder activism intensifies, boards face mounting pressure to defend strategy, protect corporate reputation, and engage stakeholders with clarity. This panel brings together accomplished directors to explore how boards can respond effectively while maintaining credibility, board alignment, and stakeholder trust. Hear real-world insights on navigating activism in today’s high-stakes, high-visibility environment.
Speakers include: Gaby Sulzberger, David Cahoy, Rachael Coffey, Eduardo Gallardo
Hosted By:
12:00 – 1:00 p.m.
Lunch & Networking
1:00 – 1:10 p.m.
Spotlight Board-Ready Women
50 Women to Watch For Boards
Join us in celebrating the 2025 cohort of 50 Women to Watch for Boards and meet these exceptional women poised for board leadership.
1:10 – 1:30 p.m.
Networking Break
1:30 – 2:20 p.m.
Breakout Sessions
Choose From Three Thought-Provoking Breakouts
Inside the Boardroom: Resilience Planning in Action
This interactive session places directors inside the boardroom during moments of disruption. Through tabletop exercises and real-world scenarios, participants will explore how boards can apply structured frameworks to assess geopolitical risk, anticipate threats, and make decisive decisions under pressure. Designed as a classroom-style session, this breakout provides practical tools to strengthen oversight and build a proactive board response strategy in an increasingly uncertain world.
Tactics that Work: Case Studies in Navigating Shareholder Activism
In this tactical, director-focused session, participants will engage in case-based exercises to dissect real campaigns and pressure scenarios. From activist letters to proxy fights, explore how boards can craft strategic responses that reinforce governance integrity, protect corporate reputation, and align with long-term priorities. Walk away with actionable tactics and frameworks to strengthen board preparedness in the face of growing investor scrutiny.
Hosted By:
Your First Board Meeting: A Director’s Playbook
Designed for aspiring and newly appointed directors, this session offers practical guidance on how to step confidently into your first boardroom. Learn what to expect in early meetings, how to contribute with purpose, and how to quickly build credibility and trust among seasoned peers. Gain insight into board dynamics, unspoken protocols, and the critical questions new directors should be ready to ask and answer.
Hosted By:
2:20 – 2:35 p.m.
Networking Break
2:35 – 3:25 p.m.
Panel
Code of Conduct: Governing Data & Emerging Tech
Boards are no longer observers of emerging technology; they are stewards of how it’s governed. This panel goes beyond awareness to examine how directors can structure oversight, define accountability, and measure governance effectiveness in AI, data use, and digital innovation. Panelists will share practical strategies for building governance systems that ensure transparency, ethical decision-making, and responsible innovation at scale.
Speakers include: Sita Lowman, Nithya Das, Suresh Sharma, Byron Loflin
3:25 – 3:55 p.m.
Fireside Chat
Intentional Governance: Navigating the Evolving DEI Landscape
As the national conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) shifts, and in some cases faces legal and political challenges, boards are being called to thoughtfully assess how DEI fits into governance strategy. This session explores how directors can engage in intentional, informed discussions about the risks and benefits of DEI, and how these efforts intersect with fiduciary duty, legal compliance, and long-term business goals. Panelists will share insights on how boards can evaluate, refine, and lead DEI initiatives with integrity, transparency, and accountability.
Speakers include: Ike Harris, Ann Sarnoff, Hari Panday
3:55 – 4:00 p.m.
Closing Remarks
4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Networking Reception
Networking Reception
Join us for drinks, continue conversations, and make connections with peers, board directors, and distinguished speakers in support of your board journey.
Topics
Strengthening Oversight: Risk Management and Board Resilience
Tickets
$450
Start with Strategic Connections
Begin your day with curated breakfast conversations designed to accelerate your board journey
Main Stage Programming
Access to all keynote sessions, research insights, and expert panels on global markets, innovation and technology, reputation management, and board strategy in an era of disruption
Interactive Breakout Sessions
Dive deeper and hone your strategic focus with three panel discussions tailored to your board objectives and goals
Curated Lunch & Networking
Enjoy a catered lunch and connect with peers, sitting directors and corporate leaders
Spotlight on 50 Women to Watch
Meet the 2025 cohort of board-ready women leaders
Closing Fireside Chat
The Future of Boardroom Influence: An intimate conversation on emerging governance trends and the evolving role of directors in shaping business and society
Networking Reception
Hosted drinks and small bites to close the day with inspiring insights and new connections
Sponsorship
Transform Your Brand & Impact
Exclusive Access & Networking: Connect directly with board directors and C-suite leaders
- Meet decision-makers from Fortune 500 and high-growth companies
- Gain visibility among those driving billion-dollar strategies
- Enjoy premium sponsor recognition throughout the event
Thought Leadership Platform: Showcase your expertise and influence key conversations
- Moderate high-profile panel discussions
- Lead targeted breakout sessions with executives
- Share research or insights with board-level audiences
- Be featured in communications to senior and emerging leaders
Strategic Talent Development: Spotlight and elevate board-ready women across your organization.
- Register your women talent for board-readiness programming at the Summit
- Support the 50 Women to Watch for Boards recognition program
Corporate Responsibility Impact: Demonstrate commitment to governance excellence and equity advancement
- Support research that informs corporate boardroom best practices
- Reinforce your ESG goals with tangible outcomes
Past Speakers
Carla Vernón
Jessica Alba
Valerie Jarrett
David Chun
Whitney Wolfe Herd
Byron Loflin
María Ariza
Melinda French Gates
Hari Panday
Mellody Hobson
Laurie Lam
Herman E. Bulls
Titi Cole
John Driver
Janice Ellig
Strategic Sponsorship Opportunities
Access decision-makers committed to improving governance and board leadership, elevate your brand, and provide your women talent with exclusive opportunities in board-readiness programming and events.
Engage
Connect with your key audience in a credible, high-impact format that builds lasting business relationships while positioning your brand at the center of a powerful network of corporate leaders.
Influence
Establish your thought leadership, showcase your expertise, and demonstrate your commitment to business excellence and corporate responsibility among industry leaders actively seeking insights and solutions.
Advance
Empower your women leaders with direct access to boardroom insights and influential networks, creating meaningful connections around today's most critical governance and business challenges that benefit your entire organization.
For sponsorship inquiries, please email Director of Development Shane Cullen at shane@5050wob.com.
Your Experience
Strategic Networking
Connect with Decision-Makers Who Matter
Gain exclusive access to sitting corporate directors, industry influencers, and C-suite executives who are actively shaping the future of board governance. Our curated networking experiences throughout the day enable you to build meaningful relationships and connections with peers and leaders in support of your board journey.
Insights & Key Learnings
Master the Issues Driving Boardroom Success
Discover how top-performing boards navigate today's most critical challenges, from geopolitical risk and technological disruption to activist pressure and reputation management. Learn the strategic frameworks and governance practices that distinguish high-performing companies, and gain actionable insights you can immediately apply to strengthen your board readiness and leadership impact.
Research & Data:
Access Exclusive Intelligence That Shape Strategies
Get first access to proprietary research and performance data that reveals what truly drives boardroom excellence. You'll leave with the data-driven intelligence that informs strategic decisions and strengthens your value proposition as a board director or candidate.
Our Community
Your Path to the Boardroom™
Become part of an exclusive community of ambitious leaders, board-ready professionals, and influential directors committed to advancing excellence in governance. Our network extends far beyond The Summit through ongoing mentorship opportunities, strategic introductions, and insider access to board opportunities. When you engage with us, you're not just attending an event—you're joining a movement.
NYC Financial District
Venue: 48 Wall Street, Lower Manhattan
Date: Sept. 17, 2026
Time: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. ET
Connect with your key audience in a credible, high-impact format that builds lasting business relationships while positioning your brand at the center of a powerful network of corporate leaders, board directors, and forward-thinking executives who are actively shaping the future of governance.
Hotel Options
Below is a selection of hotels within walking distance or a short cab ride from our Financial District venue. Please book your hotel of choice as rooms are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Hotel Indigo Wall Street
Located in New York City's Financial District, Hotel Indigo Downtown Wall Street blends modern comfort with historic charm. Start your day with breakfast at Buttonwood Café, explore nearby landmarks like South Street Seaport and the Statue of Liberty, and unwind with rooftop cocktails and skyline views. Enjoy stylish rooms with plush bedding, upscale amenities, and noise-canceling windows. A chic retreat in the heart of Lower Manhattan.
Gild Hall
Welcome to a Lower Manhattan original. Just steps from Wall Street, One World Trade Center, and the Seaport, Gild Hall, a Thompson Hotel, is a refined retreat in the heart of the Financial District. Designed by mid-century modern expert Jim Walrod and featuring photography by Slim Aarons, the interiors blend timeless style with modern comfort. Explore The Battery, visit Pier 17, or ferry to Brooklyn, then return for Italian cuisine and craft cocktails at our restaurant and wine bar.
New York Marriott Downtown
Rising above the streets of Lower Manhattan, the New York Marriott Downtown blends classic style with modern luxury. Enjoy sweeping waterfront views, curated interiors, and exceptional service. Relax in rooms designed by local creatives, dine at Bill’s Bar & Burger, or explore nearby landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 Memorial, and Wall Street. Whether you're here for a getaway, a wedding, or a meeting, our downtown hotel offers elevated experiences in the heart of the city.
Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial District
Stay steps from the Staten Island Ferry and Battery Park at Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center. Perfectly located for exploring Liberty Island, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan, the hotel is within a mile of Wall Street, One World Trade Center, and the 9/11 Memorial. Enjoy breakfast or dinner at The Garden Grille & Bar, and grab snacks or drinks anytime from the 24-hour Pavilion Pantry. Comfortable rooms and unmatched convenience make this a smart choice in the heart of downtown.
DoubleTree by Hilton New York Downtown
Located in Manhattan’s Financial District, DoubleTree by Hilton New York Downtown offers easy access to Battery Park, the Staten Island Ferry, and top subway lines. Just steps from Whitehall and South Ferry Stations, you’re minutes from Times Square, Central Park, and the Empire State Building. Enjoy all-day dining at Antica Ristorante, free WiFi, and the signature DoubleTree cookie at check-in: your downtown stay starts here.
Additional Information About The GLOBAL SUMMIT
Click this link to register.
Please contact our Events Team at events@5050wob.com.
Every individual registration includes:
- Access to the panels, sessions, and the networking reception from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET.
- A light breakfast, seated lunch, coffee and refreshments throughout the day.
- Networking cocktail reception.
- Please refer to our agenda for specific times.
We recommend business attire. There will be a step and repeat for photo opportunities and a photographer on site.
Venue: 48 Wall St.
Location: Lower Manhattan, Financial District, New York City.
- From Newark airport: Take I-78 E/Holland Tunnel to Broadway, Wall St. in Manhattan, New York.
- Subway: Wall St: Subway services 2, 3
There will be an area to store bags or luggage but please note there is no coat-check or attendant.
Charging stations will not be available and we recommend you bring a portable charging block if you anticipate needing to power your phone or computer.
Strengthening Oversight: Risk Management and Board Resilience
This keynote will equip directors to think globally about risk through the lens of geopolitical foresight, cross-border tensions, and long-term instability. Learn how boards can strengthen oversight and guide enterprise-wide resilience by anticipating disruption and embedding a proactive risk culture in a changing world.
Speakers include: Rodger Baker
Navigating Global Markets: Trade, Tariffs, and Supply Chain Strategy
As global disruptions reshape business models, this panel will explore how boards can navigate the practical complexities of trade, tariffs, and supply chain shifts across regions. Panelists will share how directors are guiding companies through regulatory changes, sourcing challenges, and new market risks, while seizing opportunities for growth and operational agility.
Speakers include: Titi Cole, Mia Mends
Reputation & Response: How Boards Navigate Shareholder Activism
As shareholder activism intensifies, boards face mounting pressure to defend strategy, protect corporate reputation, and engage stakeholders with clarity. This panel brings together seasoned directors to explore how boards can respond effectively while maintaining credibility, board alignment, and stakeholder trust. Hear real-world insights on navigating activism in today’s high-stakes, high-visibility environment.
Speakers include: Gaby Sulzberger, David Cahoy, Rachael Coffey, Eduardo Gallego
Inside the Boardroom: Resilience Planning in Action
Tactics that Work: Case Studies in Navigating Shareholder Activism
Your First Board Meeting: A Director’s Playbook
Code of Conduct: Governing Data & Emerging Tech
Boards are no longer observers of emerging technology; they are stewards of how it’s governed. This panel goes beyond awareness to examine how directors can structure oversight, define accountability, and measure governance effectiveness in AI, data use, and digital innovation. Panelists will share practical strategies for building governance systems that ensure transparency, ethical decision-making, and responsible innovation at scale.
Speakers include: Sita Lowman, Nithya Das, Suresh Sharma, Byron Loflin
