Speak with Purpose
Now accepting registrations for the 2023 Speak with Purpose cohorts!
About the Program
We get it... public speaking is scary. Of the estimated 75% of Americans that experience fear and anxiety from speaking in front of others, less than 10% take steps to overcome it.
Speak with Purpose is designed to equip participants with the skills and confidence necessary to organize and deliver effective presentations. Over the course of five interactive sessions comprised of one-on-one, small group, impromptu, and sit-down situations, individuals will learn how to organize a presentation and deliver it to audiences large and small. Through practice and personalized feedback from peers, individuals will learn how to Speak with Purpose.
What You'll Gain
- Focused, engaging presentations that promote results.
- A surge of confidence as associates apply their organizational and presenting skills with confidence.
- A consistent presentation approach that clarifies messages inside the organization and for customers.
- Increased individual impact that brings strategic and practical benefits for the business.
- Improved morale and reduced turnover as associates apply new skills and achieve new standing in the organization.
Chamber leadership programs prioritize creating spaces where diverse perspectives can come together to learn, grow, and push our community forward.
Meet the Facilitator
Jen Pascua 
Pascua earned her bachelor's degree from Northern Illinois University and a master's degree from Grand Valley State University and spent 25 years as a broadcast journalist, 13 years of which at WZZM in Grand Rapids. She spent time as a Content Engagement Manager at Serendipity Media while also sharing her talents as an adjunct professor in the Department of Communication at Hope College. She also launched freelance media group Halo Halo Multimedia, LLC helping to elevate the voices of BIPOC entrepreneurs and non-profit organizations. Currently, she is the Marketing Director at Broadway Grand Rapids.
2023 Session Dates, Program Details & Cost
Session Dates
Cohort 1
Sessions are hosted bi-weekly on Wednesdays from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
- March 15
- March 29
- April 12
- April 26
- May 10
Cohort 2
Sessions are hosted bi-weekly on Wednesday from 2:00 - 5:00 p.m.
- September 13
- September 27
- October 11
- October 25
- November 8
Session Descriptions
Session 1: Orientation & Building Relationships
Increase rapport and persuasiveness with your listeners and learn components of powerful presentation presence
Session 2: Speak with Purpose
Why purpose matters, how to gesture with purpose, and the proper stance when presenting
Session 3: How to Influence
Explore "the finishing touches" (attention-grabbing openings, closes, stories, metaphors, illustrations) and learn how to design and use visuals effectively
Session 4: Develop a Dynamic Delivery Style
Organize your presentation ideas and information for highest impact and listener engagement
Session 5: Reduce Your Preparation Time
Learn how to think on your feet by responding to questions clearly, concisely, and credibly; speaking with confidence
Program Cost
Program Cost: Tuition must be paid in full by the first class session.
Chamber Member: $1,500
Non-Member: $2,000
If you have questions on payment or need to discuss setting up a payment plan, please contact Monica Mendez, Director of Talent & Leadership Development, at monica@grandrapids.org. There are a limited number of partial scholarship funds available. Please submit the following scholarship application form NO LATER than 30 days prior to the first session to be considered.
Questions or Comments?
Please reach out to Summer Sharrard-Neering, Talent Development Program Manager, at summer@grandrapids.org.
Program Sponsors
Premier Sponsor
Trustee Sponsor
Chamber Champions
