ACE25 Keynotes to Explore Innovation, Generational Shifts and the Future of Leadership
Michigan’s largest credit union event of the year, ACE25, is bringing two powerhouse keynote speakers to the stage, Shawn Kanungo and Kim Lear, who will challenge, inspire and equip credit union professionals to embrace innovation and lead with insight in today’s rapidly evolving world.
Shawn Kanungo: Strategy in a World of Disruption
Kicking off the Center Stage! keynote on June 5, internationally recognized innovation strategist Shawn Kanungo will deliver “Strategy in a World of Disruption.” With a bold, high-energy style, Kanungo will explore how leaders can think differently, embrace new technologies, and future-proof their organizations.
A bestselling author and viral content creator, Kanungo’s work at the intersection of business, creativity and tech has earned him millions of views on LinkedIn, TikTok, YouTube and beyond. His message is timely for credit unions navigating disruption—and full of practical takeaways for staying ahead of change.
Want to get to know Shawn before ACE25? Check out his recent appearance on The Professional Life podcast, where he shares his insights on innovation, personal growth and adapting to the future of work: Watch on YouTube.
Kim Lear: Decoding Generational Dynamics
Also taking the keynote stage at ACE25 is Kim Lear, founder of Inlay Insights and one of the nation’s most sought-after generational researchers. Lear’s engaging presentations blend sharp data, relevant case studies and compelling storytelling to illuminate how generational trends are shaping the future of leadership, workforce culture, and consumer expectations.
A former content director at BridgeWorks, Lear has spent over a decade analyzing generational change. She is now in her ninth year of a longitudinal study on leadership and serves as an advisor to an AI startup while volunteering with The 78 Cents Project to empower young women.
Her insights have helped guide companies like Disney, Deloitte, Mastercard, and LinkedIn. She led research for the book Gen Z @ Work and regularly contributes to the national conversation through her writing, speaking and her popular Substack, Kids These Days.
Attendees can dive deeper into her work through her recent Filene Research Institute whitepaper, Decoding Generational Dynamics. In it, Lear explores how different generational experiences—shaped by technology, economics, and societal shifts—are influencing values, behaviors and expectations, especially in the workplace and financial services. The report offers practical recommendations for building stronger, more inclusive organizations and fostering trust across generations.
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