Southeast Leadership Conference
April 25, 2025 | 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
The CPE Center
10449 US Hwy 301 S., Statesboro, GA 30458
The Southeast Leadership Conference (SLC) is tailored for businesses and industries in the Southeast region of the U.S.
This year’s conference theme is “Leadership Reimagined: Innovating the Way We Lead” In today’s fast-evolving world, traditional leadership approaches are no longer enough.
This conference will explore cutting-edge leadership strategies that embrace innovation, adaptability, and modern trends such as remote/hybrid work, technological advancements such as AI, and shifting workforce dynamics. Attendees will learn how to cultivate forward-thinking leadership styles that empower teams, drive growth, and foster a culture of creativity and resilience. Join us to reimagine what it means to lead in the 21st century and inspire a new era of leadership.
2025 Southeast Leadership Conference Keynotes
Drew Epting
Director of Talent Services and Marketing at MAU
Drew Epting is a leading workforce solutions company specializing in talent, process, and technology solutions for manufacturers. With a passion for creating strong team cultures and effective workforce strategies, Drew plays a key role in helping his customers thrive in a competitive market.
Drew graduated from Augusta University, where he also played baseball, developing a strong foundation in teamwork, discipline, and leadership. Prior to his work at MAU, he spent 11 years working for a non-profit that focused on faith-based leadership development. He joined MAU seven years ago and works with customers throughout the Southeast. Outside of his professional work, Drew is deeply committed to his family, church and local community. He lives in Augusta, Georgia with his wife, Jes, and their three children. He enjoys the outdoors, reading, playing golf, and mentoring younger leaders.
Leslie Smith
Vice President for Leadership and Education, Association of the U.S. Army,
Leadership Professor, Georgia Southern University
Lieutenant General Leslie C. Smith, US Army (retired) currently serves as the Vice President for Leadership and Education, Association of the United States Army, a visiting leadership professor at Parker College of Business – Georgia Southern University, a director on several corporate boards and the CEO for LV Smith Corporate Group, LLC. LTG Smith received his commission from Georgia Southern University (GSU) in 1983 as a Field Artillery Officer. In 1985, he graduated from GSU with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and as a distinguished military graduate and branched as a Chemical Officer. He was inducted into Kappa Alpha Psi in the Iota Pi Chapter at GA Southern in April 1982.
LTG Smith’s final assignment on active duty from 2018 to 2021 was as The Inspector General, Office of the Secretary of the Army, the first Chemical officer to serve in that position.
As a general officer his assignments included the 25th Chief of Chemical and Commandant of the United States Army Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear School, Commanding General 20th Support Command (CBRNE) (responsible for leading Explosive Ordnance Disposal and CBRN Soldiers in 15 states and 3 -5 countries, the Commanding General of the United States Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood (the first chemical officer to do so), and as the Deputy the Inspector General.
LTG Smith holds a Master of Science degree in Administration from Central Michigan University and a Master of Arts degree in national security strategy from the National Defense University.
He is married to Vanedra, they have two grown daughters.
2025 Southeast Leadership Conference Schedule
The Southeast Leadership Conference Schedule is subject to minor changes.
April 25, 2025 | #SLC25
Last updated: 3/7/2025
Contact Information
P.O. Box 8124
FAX: 912-478-0847
CPE Center
10449 US Hwy 301 S., Statesboro, GA 30458
912-478-5555
Armstrong Campus
13040 Abercorn St., Savannah, GA 31419
912-478-5555