The Many Faces of Emotional Intelligence

Thursday, October 30, 2025 | 8:30AM–9:15AM CT | Meeting Room 209 AB, Level 2
Session Type: Breakout Session
Delivery Format: Presentation/Panel Session
We all know the gold standards of emotional intelligence: calm under pressure, deeply empathetic, gracefully vulnerable—basically, Brené Brown with a strategic plan. But what if your version of EQ doesn’t look like that? What if your authentic leadership style doesn’t match the cultural archetype? In this session, we explore the many faces of emotional intelligence (EI) in leadership. From neurodivergent thinkers and introverts to emerging leaders and seasoned pros, EI is not a one-size-fits-all trait. We’ll challenge common myths, including the pressure to perform emotional labor in a certain way, and reframe EI as a dynamic skill shaped by values, identity, and context. Through reflection, real-life stories, and interactive discussion, we’ll empower participants to recognize and grow their own leadership EQ—without feeling like they have to perform to lead effectively.            

Presenters

  • Mark Davis Jr.

    Associate Chief Information Technology Officer, Swarthmore College

  • Susan Featherston

    Senior Strategic Consultant, Vantage Technology Consulting Group

  • Karen Warren

    Associate Vice President for Information Technology, Wesleyan University

Resources & Downloads

  • The Many Faces of Emotional Intelligence Slides

    Updated on 7/5/2026