CONNECT.
EMPOWER.
ACHIEVE.
The Monarch Leadership Conference is a powerful event that strives to help attendees develop key professional skills, realize their potential, expand their confidence and acquire the tools necessary to accomplish their personal and professional goals, all with the support of fellow Boilermakers.
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Purdue Memorial Union and Rawls Hall
Open to all Purdue students!
Breakfast & Lunch
2 Keynote Speakers
2 Workshop Sessions
Complimentary Merch
Networking
For any inquiries, please contact us via email at wib@purdue.edu.
SAVE THE DATE
February 7, 2026
This year's theme, Empowered in Action, celebrates the connection between self-discovery and purposeful growth. Through interactive workshops and hands-on sessions, attendees will uncover what truly drives them, whether that be their values, motivations, and strengths, and learn how to channel that awareness into meaningful action. By understanding themselves better, participants will gain the clarity and confidence to make intentional choices that propel their personal and professional success. This conference is designed so everyone leaves not just inspired but equipped with practical skills and self-knowledge they can put into action immediately.
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.
