What is Level Up 2026?
Level Up 2026 is the first annual conference organized by Women of Waco, a group dedicated to fostering strong networks, providing educational resources, and celebrating the achievements of women throughout the Waco area. The conference is designed as a day of learning, inspiration, and meaningful connections, tailored specifically for women navigating professional spaces.
The event will be held on Jan. 30, 2026 at the AC Hotel Waco, a modern venue located downtown, perfect for hosting a day of dynamic sessions and networking opportunities. Doors open at 9:30 AM, and the conference will run through 5:30 PM, packing in keynote addresses, breakout sessions, networking breaks, and more.
Why Level Up? The Conference Themes
The heart of Level Up 2026 lies in three core themes:
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Growth
Growth is about personal and professional development—learning new skills, overcoming challenges, and expanding your horizons. Whether you’re climbing the corporate ladder, launching a startup, or reinventing your career, growth is essential. The conference will offer breakout sessions on topics like leadership, financial literacy, personal branding, and work-life balance, all aimed at helping women expand their potential.
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Impact
Making an impact means leaving a meaningful mark in your workplace, community, or industry. This theme highlights how women can use their talents and voices to drive change. From entrepreneurial inspiration to advocacy and mentorship, the keynote speakers especially will showcase and encourage attendees to think big about the impact they could have.
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Connection
Success is rarely a solo journey. Connection is about building relationships, finding mentors, collaborators, and allies. At Level Up 2026, women will have the opportunity to network with peers, industry leaders, and inspiring role models, creating a support system that lasts far beyond the conference day.
Meet the Keynote Speakers
Level Up 2026 is honored to feature two powerhouse keynote speakers who embody the spirit of the conference themes.
Linda Livingstone, President of Baylor University
Dr. Linda Livingstone has served as the 15th president of Baylor University since 2017 and has overseen the development and implementation of two university-wide strategic plans in that time. During her tenure, Baylor achieved R1 status as a top-tier research institution, completed its most successful fundraising campaign with over $1.5 billion raised, and solidified its reputation as a preeminent Christian research university making a global impact. Livingstone’s insights will offer valuable perspectives on leadership, perseverance, and connections. Her experience steering one of Texas’ top universities during changing times makes her a compelling voice on how women can succeed with confidence and impact.
Rachel E. Pate, Vice President of the Cen-Tex African American Chamber of Commerce
Rachel E. Pate is Vice President and Lemonade Day Waco Director at the Cen-Tex African American Chamber of Commerce, where she has served for nine years advancing economic development, youth entrepreneurship, and women’s workforce initiatives. She also volunteers her time as a board member for Rapoport Academy and the Association of Fundraising Professionals Centex Chapter, serves on the Waco Police Academy Advisory Board, and hosts Downtown Depot on KWBU Waco Public Radio. Pate’s keynote will inspire attendees to embrace their unique power, leverage networks, and make a lasting impact in their professions and communities.
Breakout Sessions: Dive Deep into Women’s Professional Topics
Level Up 2026 isn’t just about listening—it’s about engaging, learning, and applying new ideas. The conference will feature a variety of breakout sessions throughout the day – some like interactive workshops and others like a traditional breakout session – covering topics critical to women in professional spaces.
These sessions will be led by local experts, successful entrepreneurs, and professionals who understand the challenges and opportunities women face in today’s workplace. The majority of speakers are also members of Women of Waco. This should give attendees a taste of what it is like to be a part of this community and the kinds of people they will have the opportunity to network with regularly if they might so choose to join.
Sponsorship Opportunities: Partnering to Empower Women
Level Up 2026 also offers companies a unique chance to get involved as sponsors, showing their commitment to supporting women’s professional growth while gaining valuable exposure.
Sponsors with the highest level of sponsorship available, the Ascent Alliance, will enjoy benefits including:
- High-Visibility Positioning:
- Prominent Booth Position at the conference
- Exclusive Sponsor of the Concluding Afternoon Social Hour, with your logo prominently displayed on all reception signage.
- Audience Connection
- Dedicated Social Media Post announcing your participation.
- Complimentary Women of Waco Email Blast (pre- or postconference, valid up to six months after the event).
- Online Presence
- Website Promotion featuring your logo, company description, and a direct link to your website.
- Event Access
- Two (2) Complimentary Passes to the Women of Waco conference
Sponsors with the lowest level of sponsorship, the Connect & Contribute Package, will still enjoy benefits, including:
- Online Presence
- Website Promotion featuring your logo.
- Event Access
- One Complimentary Pass to the Women of Waco conference.
For companies looking to invest in Waco’s vibrant women’s community and align their brand with empowerment and leadership, sponsorship is a win-win. Each form of sponsorship is fit for a variety of companies or professionals – see what might be a good fit for you here.
If you are interested, contact the Women of Waco here.
Why This Matters: Supporting Women in Professional Spaces
The need for events like Level Up 2026 has never been more critical. Women continue to face unique challenges in the workplace—from wage gaps and leadership underrepresentation to balancing career and family demands. Creating spaces where women can learn, connect, and grow together fosters a more inclusive and equitable professional landscape.
By supporting, educating, and encouraging women through conferences like this, Women of Waco is helping to build a stronger, more connected community where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.
How to Attend Level Up 2026
Whether you’re a professional, entrepreneur, student, or simply someone looking for inspiration, Level Up 2026 welcomes all women ready to level up their lives and careers. Registration is available via the Women of Waco website
The conference includes:
- Full access to keynote speeches
- Attendance at multiple breakout sessions
- Networking opportunities with women across industries
- Lunch and refreshments throughout the day
- A swag bag filled with goodies from local businesses and sponsors
Make sure to follow Women of Waco on social media for the latest updates and ticket announcements.
Final Thoughts: Be Part of Waco’s Newest Women’s Movement
Level Up 2026 is more than just a conference—it’s a movement to uplift women, empower futures, and build a community where every woman can succeed. Whether you come for the learning, the networking, or the inspiration, you’ll leave with new tools, new connections, and a renewed sense of purpose.
Join Women of Waco on Jan. 30, 2026, at the AC Hotel Waco, and take your next big step forward. It’s time to level up!
For More Information
Visit Women of Waco’s website or follow them on social media to stay updated on tickets, speakers, sponsors, and more here