The Monarch Leadership Conference, hosted by Purdue Women in Business, is the School of Business's premier event for young professionals. Since its inception in 2008, Monarch has become a cornerstone event that fosters professional growth and personal development. This year’s conference brings together ambitious individuals to explore themes of self-discovery, growth, and confidence. Attendees will gain actionable skills and a deeper insight into what drives them and how that applies to their professional journeys.  We are excited for attendees to work with people from diverse backgrounds and achieve personal and professional excellence. Through inspiring speakers, networking opportunities, and engaging workshops, Monarch empowers students to be adaptable, growth-oriented, and confident along the way to becoming the best leaders they can be.

Kim Macko is a seasoned business leader and strategist with extensive experience driving growth, transformation, and innovation at Eli Lilly and Company. In addition to being a Purdue Alum, Kim also has an MBA from Harvard, which has led her to her current role as Associate Vice President of Corporate Strategy at Lilly. Kim has held numerous leadership roles spanning global product marketing, R&D strategy, investor relations, and operations. She has also served as Chief of Staff to Eli Lilly’s Chief Scientific Officer, bringing strategic insight and operational excellence to high-impact initiatives. 

Kim began her career in finance and treasury at Eli Lilly and ExxonMobil, and has since leveraged her financial acumen and strategic mindset to deliver results in complex, global organizations. She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and a BS in Management from Purdue University. Kim is passionate about mentoring emerging leaders and sharing her expertise on strategy, transformation, and leadership in high-growth environments.

Tiffini N. Grimes is the Deputy Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator at Purdue University, where she oversees the operational, financial, and strategic direction of a Big Ten Conference athletics department. Her leadership portfolio includes executive oversight of Football and Women’s Basketball, strategic leadership across 18 varsity sports, and management of more than 300 staff members spanning business operations, compliance, academics, HR, and performance services. 

With nearly two decades of senior leadership experience, Tiffini has led transformational change at some of the nation’s most competitive athletic programs, including The University of Alabama. Her work has spanned NIL strategy development, major capital projects, organizational restructuring, and initiatives advancing equity, compliance, and student-athlete well-being. A recipient of the SBJ Forty Under 40 recognition, Tiffini brings extensive expertise in strategic planning, program growth, and competitive excellence. Her leadership centers on accountability, innovation, and creating environments where student-athletes and staff can thrive.