Reclaiming Your Leadership Authority: Breaking Invisible Agreements That Hold You Back | 2026 U-LEAD CONFERENCE

Presenter: Shannon Thomas, Founder, Inherit Leadership | Chief Information Officer | EdD Candidate, Minnesota State University, Mankato

Leadership isn't just about gaining new skills. It's also about recognizing the
beliefs and expectations we've inherited along the way. Many emerging
leaders unknowingly operate from "invisible agreements": assumptions about
needing to have all the answers, always saying yes, avoiding conflict, or
proving their worth through overwork. While these patterns often begin with
good intentions, they can limit confidence, decision-making, and long-term
effectiveness. In this interactive session, participants will reflect on the
experiences that have shaped their leadership, identify one or more invisible
agreements influencing how they show up today, and learn a practical
framework for reclaiming their leadership authority. Through guided
reflection, discussion, and individual activities, participants will explore how
intentional leadership begins with understanding themselves before trying to
influence others. By the end of the session, participants will: - Recognize
leadership patterns they may have inherited rather than intentionally chosen.
- Learn a framework for evaluating and challenging limiting leadership beliefs.
- Leave with one concrete action they can take to lead with greater
confidence, authenticity, and purpose. Whether participants currently hold a
formal leadership role or simply want to increase their influence, this session
will provide practical tools to help them reflect, reclaim, and reimagine the
leader they want to become.

Participants will identify one invisible leadership agreement that is limiting
their effectiveness and develop a practical strategy to lead with greater
intention and authenticity

 

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Co-hosted with: CSU & Student Activities, Student Events Team, Maverick Involvement Team, Delta Sigma Pi, Honors Student Body, Interfraternity Council (IFC), International Student Association, Panhellenic Council, Residence Hall Association (RHA), Student Government, Fraternity & Sorority Life, Residential Life