Key Leaders’ Summit: Transforming Behavior Through Connection

Please plan to join us for Key Leaders’ Summit on Thursday, August 13, from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at Snoqualmie Middle School in Snoqualmie, WA.

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Why do individuals respond the way they do in moments of crisis or difficulty? Behavior is communication and can be easily misunderstood when context is overlooked; real healing, connection, and regulation happen through consistent, patterned, relational experiences—not one-time interventions. Learn more from local operational psychologist Jeff Holguin, PhD on how to turn challenging moments into opportunities for growth and understanding.

Key Leader participants will leave with practical, evidence‑based strategies for restoring perspective‑taking under pressure and strengthening communication across not only classrooms, but also staff teams, and the broader community. Cognitive empathy—the ability to accurately understand what another person is thinking, feeling, or intending—is a core predictor of effective teaching, reduced conflict, and stronger student–teacher relationships.

About our keynote presenter: Jeff Holguin, PhD is an operational psychologist who specializes in what happens when humans are pushed to their limits. With a background that spans complex operational roles and advanced clinical training, he brings both scientific rigor and lived experience to the table. Jeff works with high‑performance teams around the world, teaching them how to stay resilient, adaptive, and effective under pressure. His methods blend physiology, behavioral science, and systems‑level thinking into practical tools for real‑world performance. His mission is simple: help teams build the clarity, cohesion, and resilience they need to thrive in demanding environments—not just survive them.

Doors will open at 8:45 a.m. for networking. The program will begin promptly at 9:15 a.m.

Attendees will enjoy a free continental breakfast!

The KEY LEADERS’ SUMMIT is a facilitated community leaders event (leaders = anyone who shows up to participate) to address issues influencing the overall health and well-being of those living in the Snoqualmie Valley. Share this invitation with others who may be interested in participating.

If you have questions about this event, please contact Helene Wentink at helene@empoweryouthnetwork.org. Empower Youth Network is committed to making our events accessible to everyone. If you require an accommodation or service to fully participate, please contact Empower Youth Network at 425-333-6614 at least 7 days prior to the event.

This event is made possible through funding from the Alan M. Painter 2026 Community Engagement Grant/King County Local Services.