District 54 Spring Conference Keynote Speaker

Meet Deborah Harris!

Deborah Harris—Founder and Principal Consultant of ICU Learning, and Executive Director of iCU Community Organization, NFP. With 16 years of experience and a degree in International Business & Trade from Florida Atlantic University, she brings a global lens to leadership, learning, and workforce transformation.

Deborah is SHRM-certified, serves on the Executive Board of her local Chamber of Commerce, and is the leadership instructor at Elgin Community College and Harper College Business Solutions. She’s known for turning learning into a bold tool for reinvention—and doing it all with unshakable energy and heart.

Outside of work, she’s a proud boy mom of three nd one spirited collie, who keeps her on her toes and grounded in what really matters.

Today, she’s here to help us reimagine what’s possible in work, leadership, and life."

AUDIENCES All Levels Leadership | Teams | Small Business

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Ignite a passion for learning through training that is relevant to daily work practices, culturally sensitive to the people, and skillfully for the business.

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Keynote Description:

I See You Leading: Not a Compliment, But a Confirmation!

Leadership isn’t about titles, stages, or spotlights—it’s about intention, impact, and showing up when it matters most. With humor, heart, and hard truths, Deborah bridges the past, present, and future of leadership through storytelling, real talk. This isn’t inspiration for inspiration’s sake—it’s a call to recognize your leadership, honor your growth, and activate your influence, no matter where you sit. Whether you're leading a team, a movement, or just trying to lead yourself through a Monday—this message is for you.

Workshop Speaker

Meet Kashaun Parker!

Kashaun Parker is an accomplished keynote speaker, executive coach, and passionate advocate for effective communication. With years of experience in public speaking and leadership, she has captivated audiences with her authentic storytelling and actionable insights. Kashaun's expertise in communication strategies and leadership development has made her a sought-after facilitator for workshops and educational sessions.

As an active member of Toastmasters International, Kashaun has held key leadership roles, including Area Director and Vice President of Education. Her commitment to personal and professional growth has enabled her to mentor countless individuals on their journey to becoming confident and impactful speakers.

In addition to her speaking career, Kashaun is a two-time bestselling author and a dedicated mentor to aspiring entrepreneurs. Through her involvement in local business programs and leadership development initiatives, she empowers others to achieve their goals and share their voices with confidence.

Kashaun's inspiring story of resilience and dedication serves as a testament to the transformative power of effective communication. Whether delivering keynote speeches, facilitating workshops, or leading leadership programs, she is passionate about helping others unlock their potential and make a lasting impact.

She resides in Plainfield, IL, and remains committed to championing the art of public speaking and leadership development within her community and beyond.

Workshop Description:

Talk That Transcends: Public Speaking That Honors, Elevates, and Impacts Generations

In a world of soundbites and short attention spans, the most powerful speakers are those who build messages that last. This workshop challenges participants to move beyond performance and into purpose—teaching them how to honor what’s shaped them, elevate their voice, and craft speeches that create generational impact.

Whether presenting a keynote, leading a team, or sharing a story, attendees will walk away with clear strategies to:

Anchor their message in meaning without losing momentum
Blend storytelling and structure for long-term resonance
Speak with intention that outlives the moment and shifts the room

Workshop Speaker

Meet Gary Ohler!

Gary Ohler is a seasoned leadership expert with over 35 years of corporate leadership experience and a passion for helping people lead more effectively by mastering the art of connection. He is the President of Appex Partners LLC and serves as an Executive Corporate Facilitator with Maxwell Leadership, where he is also a valued member of the President’s Advisory Council.

He holds an MBA from Bradley University and the Chartered Leadership Fellow (CLF) designation from The American College. As a certified DISC Master Trainer and Consultant, and executive coach, Gary is a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to improve communication, team dynamics, and performance culture.

Gary’s core belief is that leadership success comes not just from Know-How—knowing what needs to be done—but from Do-How—the shift in behaviors that gets things done. A member of Delightful Greeters Toastmasters, Gary brings clarity, energy, and practical insight to every stage. He lives in Normal, Illinois with his wife, Julie. When not working with organizations to lift their leadership lid, he is serving the next generation of leaders on the National Committee for Scouting America.

Workshop Description:

Communicate Less. Connect More: An Introduction to the DISC Model of Human Behavior!

Great communicators speak. Great leaders connect.

In this fun, fast-paced, and highly practical session, you'll discover how the DISC model of human behavior can help you move from simply talking to truly connecting. Whether you're giving a speech, leading a team, or networking with clients, understanding the four primary DISC styles — Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness — gives you a
powerful edge.

You’ll learn how to spot each style in everyday conversations and how to adjust your approach to build stronger
relationships, reduce misunderstandings, and increase your influence. Perfect for Toastmasters, business professionals,
and anyone who wants to communicate with greater clarity and confidence.

Come curious. Leave connected.

Workshop Speaker

Meet Stephen Enteman!

Stephen is a native of Phoenix, Arizona who moved to Lacon, Illinois in 2023. He is a retired state trooper with a long history of training, media relations, and public speaking. He has been a member of Toastmasters for 10 years and is an avid participant in speech contests. In 2015 he won the District Humorous speech contest in Arizona. He is currently the VPPR for Forging Leaders Toastmasters in Peoria.

Stephen is an obsessed gardener with a certification as a Master Farmer farmer. He is an active fan and participant in the sport of rugby and served as the head coach for the Phoenix Storm rugby football club from 2014-2018. Stephen is the founder of Code 4 Specialists which is a training, leadership and security consulting company. He is currently the Director of Training for Marksman Security Global Partners division.