top of page

#USATODAYTWP

  • LinkedIn
  • Facebook
  • X
presto_image_2140329001.jpg

HI, I'M CHRIS.

Chris Thomas is the Executive Editor of Sports for the USA TODAY Network, leading coverage transformation across more than 230 sites within the nation’s largest news organization. He previously served as Detroit Free Press sports editor and Gannett’s South Region sports director, which brought him to Nashville, where he still resides. 

The Essence of True Leadership – One with the Team a panel presentation

Wednesday, April 8, 1:15 PM

What does it truly mean to lead? “The Essence of True Leadership – One with the Team” explores the profound distinction between managing from above and inspiring from within. This session delves into the philosophy that leadership is not simply about overseeing tasks or issuing directives, but about forging authentic connections, cultivating trust, and creating environments where collaboration flourishes and every voice is heard. 

Participants will examine the core values of teamwork and its crucial role in achieving realistic and meaningful collective goals. Through real-world examples and best practices, the session highlights the transformative power of strong collaboration, creative problem-solving, and innovative thinking that emerge when each team member is fully engaged and “on board.” 

​

Leaders will be invited to reflect on the importance of active participation—immersing themselves in daily successes and setbacks, supporting their teams through challenges, and championing the unique strengths each individual brings. By prioritizing open communication, encouraging the free exchange of ideas, and celebrating contributions, leaders lay the foundation for a united and purpose-driven team. 

​

Join us to discover how true leadership inspires teams to reach their fullest potential, enhances job satisfaction, and drives collective excellence. Walk away with practical insights to help you foster unity, adaptability, and success in the ever-evolving landscape of work. 

 

Key Topics Covered:  

  • Define what teamwork truly means and its significance in achieving realistic collective goals. 

  • Explore the advantages of strong collaboration, creative problem-solving and innovative solutions, when the team is “on board.”   

​

Learn more about the panelists:

TWP_USA_Today 2026 - Original_3x.png

USA TODAY Top Workplaces 2026 Conference Policy

​​All cancellation request must be submitted in writing via email to justin.libak@usatoday.com.

 

Confirmed registrants may cancel and receive a full refund minus a $150 cancellation fee for general attendees through February 27, 2026. Cancellation request received from February 28, 2026 through March 20, 2026 are nonrefundable but can be transferred to another member within your organization. Cancellations on or after March 21, 2026 are nonrefundable and transfers are not permitted.    

 

Attendees who do not attend the event and/or do not contact USA TODAY Co. via written correspondence by the dates above will be responsible for the full attendee registration fee. If the conference is cancelled, USA TODAY Co. is not responsible for any penalty incurred by purchasing a nonrefundable airline ticket or related costs.  


Notice of Filming statement: 

By entering this event and by your presence here, you consent to be photographed, filmed and/or otherwise recorded. Your entry constitutes your consent to such photography, filming and/or recording and to any use, in any and all media throughout the universe in perpetuity, of your appearance, voice and name for any purpose whatsoever in connection with USA TODAY Top Workplaces 2026 Conference.  You understand that all photography, filming and/or recording will be done in reliance on this consent given by you by entering this area. If you do not agree to the foregoing, please do not enter this area. Holder releases and waives each of  USA TODAY Co., Inc. the facility, vendors and participants, and their respective affiliates and representatives from any and all loss, damage, or injury, including death, that may be sustained by Holder or damage to any of his/her property, WHETHER CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF THE RELEASEES, or otherwise, while attending and/or participating in the Event, or while in, on or upon the premises where the Event is being conducted. HOLDER VOLUNTARILY ASSUMES FULL RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY RISKS OF LOSS, PROPERTY DAMAGE OR PERSONAL INJURY, INCLUDING DEATH, that may be sustained by Holder, or any loss or damage of property owned by Holder, as a result of participating in the Event, WHETHER CAUSED BY THE NEGLIGENCE OF RELEASEES OR OTHERWISE.

​

*Policy subject to change

 © 2025 USA TODAY, a division of USA TODAY Co., Inc., LLC

bottom of page