Speakers
Emcee: Tina VanSteenbergen
Tina has been speaking professionally since 2013 with a fairly simple message: women need women. To be successful in the workplace. To feel understood. To feel less alone in the world… women need women. And that’s the message she flies thousands of miles to spread. Her speaking style gives women permission to open up, have honest conversations, and connect. With a combination of authenticity, storytelling, and humor, she’s been able to help hundreds of thousands of women tear down the walls we’ve built between us. Together with her audience, she helps women build relationships with one another, believe in themselves, and take up space at companies, campuses, and organizations. Her work sets her soul on fire. So does a good nap. An excellent pour of bourbon. A beautiful snow. A peaceful and reflective sunset flight. A well-written West Wing quote. Her husband, her son, her dog, and a Minnesotan accent, of course.
Emily Donnelly
CPCU Talent Development Specialist, Rutgers University- Camden HR
Emily Donnelly is an energetic and dynamic speaker passionate about inspiring growth and transformation. As a CliftonStrengths Certified Coach and leader in Talent Development at Rutgers University-Camden, she designs engaging leadership and professional development programs that spark positive change. Known for her authenticity and enthusiasm, Emily brings energy to every interaction, leaving a lasting impact on audiences. She has earned numerous insurance industry certifications and is a dedicated leader in the insurance and education communities. A mom, triathlete, and dragon boat paddler, Emily’s diverse experiences fuel her vibrant approach to empowering others to thrive personally and professionally.
Laura E. Glotzbach
President and Founder, LGS Marketing Services
With 27 years of marketing expertise, Laura Glotzbach has emerged as a powerful advocate for women’s leadership and professional excellence. After working in NYC advertising agencies, she founded LGS Marketing Services 15 years ago, providing clients with unbiased marketing analytics that drive strategic business decisions. Her academic credentials from Rider, Penn State, NYU, Cornell, and Wharton reflect her commitment to continuous learning and growth. As a dedicated champion of women’s advancement, Laura serves on the Rider University Leadership Council and the Delta Phi Epsilon International Governing Board. Her recent induction into the Rider University Business Hall of Fame celebrates her inspiring legacy of supporting women leaders.
Samantha Marion
Sales Director, Apparel & Home Décor, TVF
Samantha (Sam) Marion is the Sales Director for Apparel and Home Décor at TVF, where she has been an integral part of the team since 2012. Growing up immersed in the textiles industry, Sam gained early exposure accompanying her mother, a seasoned professional, on international business trips.
Sam’s exceptional leadership, genuine curiosity, and proactive approach to challenges have fueled her rapid ascent to management. She is deeply committed to fostering team growth and optimizing performance to deliver exceptional value to TVF’s customers. Sam resides in Southern California with her husband, two sons, and their beloved retired movie-star pug.
Nicole Meier
Director of Branding, Ultrafabrics
Nicole Meier is a seasoned branding executive with over a decade of experience at Ultrafabrics, a global leader in animal-free performance fabrics. As Director of Branding, Nicole combines her expertise from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a passion for innovation, color, and sustainable design. Her work has positioned Ultrafabrics at the forefront of the industry, supporting its cutting-edge product development that redefines material performance and aesthetics across diverse markets.
Nicole Meier is a seasoned branding executive with over a decade of experience at Ultrafabrics, a global leader in animal-free performance fabrics. As Director of Branding, Nicole combines her expertise from the Fashion Institute of Technology with a passion for innovation, color, and sustainable design. Her work has positioned Ultrafabrics at the forefront of the industry, supporting its cutting-edge product development that redefines material performance and aesthetics across diverse markets.
Christina Rapa
Textile Engineer/Digital Fabrics, W.L. Gore & Associates
Christina Rapa is a Textile Engineer at W.L. Gore & Associates in Elkton, MD, makers of GORE-TEX waterproof/breathable laminates for the outdoor industry. She is part of the Digital Fabrics team and leads the implementation of PLM as well as drives the creation of 3D materials for consumer brands. Christina was recently elected to serve as the President of AATCC (American Association of Textile Chemists and Colorists) for the 2025-26 term. As only the fourth woman elected to this post in the organization’s 100+ year history, she brings passion and advocacy to women in leadership roles in the Textile Industry.
More Speakers Coming Soon!
We are working hard at solidifying additional content and speakers and will get them added as soon as possible.
Questions?
For more information, or website accessibility questions, contact: Jill Newman, Education & Events Manager | 651-225-6953 | jill.newman@textiles.org