In the fast pace of life and leadership, finding time to pause can feel impossible, but it might be the most powerful step you take. This one-hour virtual retreat invites you to explore how intentional practices can help you reconnect with your values, nurture your inner life, and lead with greater clarity and purpose.
Dr. Lonnie Pederson and Jolee Lilja will draw on Midwest leadership traditions and their own experiences to share the profound connection between leadership and spirituality. Through personal stories and practical tools, they’ll guide you in cultivating presence, self-awareness, and a deeper alignment with your values. Discover how the simple act of pausing can open the door to growth, meaning, and a more grounded approach to life and leadership.
What You’ll Gain
- An understanding of contemplative practices that nourish inner life and leadership.
- Insights into the role of mentors and community in shaping inside-out leadership.
- Inspiration to create your own pause practice that aligns with your core values.
About the Speakers
Dr. Lonnie Pederson is a seasoned leader with over three decades of experience in nonprofit leadership across higher education, healthcare, and human services. Holding a doctorate in leadership from the University of St. Thomas, her work focuses on integrating spirituality and work. Dr. Pederson is deeply committed to helping others lead from the inside out, aligning values, beliefs, and actions. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Center for Action and Contemplation in Albuquerque, NM, and finds inspiration in nature through forest bathing in Minnesota’s north woods.
Jolee Lilja is dedicated to building strong communities and fostering personal and professional growth. With an MA in Leadership from Augsburg University and certifications in coaching, meditation, and entrepreneurial mindset facilitation, Jolee helps individuals discover their vocational passions through her coaching practice, The Curated Burrow. Her work is shaped by her belief in the transformative power of mindfulness and self-awareness.
About EmpowerEd
EmpowerEd offers expert-led, topic-driven seminars designed to equip military and veteran families and community members with valuable information, practical tools, and trusted resources. Learn more about EmpowerEd.
Most sessions are followed by an optional peer support event, Let’s Talk About It—a space to reflect, connect, and share takeaways in a supportive community. While attending the seminar is encouraged, it’s not required to join the discussion. Please note that registration for Let’s Talk About It is separate from the EmpowerEd seminar.
This Event is Open To
This event is open to all members of the military and veteran-connected community. Check Eventbrite for details on other offerings.
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Looking for one-on-one support? Peer 2 Peer Connect pairs you with a trained VSN Peer Leader for individualized support. For more resources and updates, follow @veteranspousenetwork and subscribe to the VSN Newsletter. Questions or concerns? We’re here to help at vsn@austin.utexas.edu.
