Summer Learning Series

The Sterling Council presents the Summer Learning Series — Advanced Leadership Development

Six power-packed sessions. Six world-class voices. One transformative summer.

July 22 – August 26, 2026 · Every Wednesday · Noon – 12:30 PM ET

Six 30-minute virtual sessions

This summer, Sterling brings the energy and insight of the 2026 Sterling Leadership Conference directly to you — in a format designed for busy leaders.

Six focused, 30-minute virtual sessions distill the Advanced Leadership Development track into a weekly rhythm that fits even the busiest schedule. Join us Wednesdays from noon to 12:30 pm Eastern, July 22 through August 26.

Open to everyone. This series is free to attend for anyone who completes the registration form.

Roland Martinez speaking at a podium

Why attend

Why You’ll Want to Be There

Bite-Sized and Powerful

Just 30 minutes each Wednesday at noon — built to fit the busiest summer schedule.

Expert-Led Conversations

Six world-class voices on the leadership competencies that matter most.

Conference-Caliber Content

Drawn from the acclaimed Advanced Leadership Development track of the 2026 Sterling Leadership Conference.

Hosted by Sterling Thought Leaders

Roland Martinez and Dr. Laura McNeil guide the series from kickoff to wrap-up.

Connect, Reflect, and Grow

A weekly rhythm to sharpen your leadership all summer long — open to anyone who registers.

Wednesdays · Noon – 12:30 PM ET

Session Details

1

Session 1 · July 22

Overview of Key Leadership Values

Roland Martinez, Deputy Director & Organizational Development Director, Florida Department of Health in Broward County

2

Session 2 · July 29

Integrity & Character

Jason Lesandrini, PhD, FACHE, LPEC, HEC-C — Ethics & Leadership, Framework Builder

3

Session 3 · August 5

Influence and Communication

Nichole Solomon, Sterling Master Examiner

4

Session 4 · August 12

Change Management & Adaptability

Alaa El-Halwagy, Chairman of the Board, Sterling International

5

Session 5 · August 19

Accountability and Crucial Conversations

Monique Akanbi, SHRM-CP, SHRM Honest HR Podcast Host

6

Session 6 · August 26

Wrap-Up & What's Next

Roland Martinez & Dr. Laura McNeil, Head of Solutions Delivery, Emerging Technology, PNC Bank

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From last summer

2025 Series Archive

Catch up on every session from last year’s Summer Learning Series — recordings, slides, and notes for each week.

Registration

Save Your Seat for the Summer

The Summer Learning Series is open to anyone who completes the registration form. One registration covers all six Wednesday sessions.