The Power of Authenticity: Leading with Truth in Times of Change

Connie Tingson Gatuz, AVP, Student Dev Learning, and Social Change, University of Michigan - University Career Center

Dr. Connie is the Associate Vice President of Student Life at the University of Michigan, a position she has held since 2022. She is the former State Chair of the Michigan American Council on Education Women’s Network, where she championed leadership development and mentorship for women in higher education.

Jessica Nguyen, University Relations Manager, GE Appliances, a Haier Company

Dr. Jessica Nguyen has been a leader in the early talent space for five years, first leading Mohawk Industries’ intern program before moving to GE Appliances to lead its intern program in 2024. Prior to Mohawk, she spent seven years in higher education, first at Georgia Northwestern Technical College in adult education and then dual enrollment before transitioning to the University of West Georgia (UWG) as the associate director of career development. Dr. Nguyen has been involved with NACE since her time at UWG and has served as a conference presenter, webinar speaker, and co-chair of several committees. Dr. Nguyen holds an Ed.D. in higher education administration from Northeastern University as well as a master’s in marriage and family therapy from Liberty University and a bachelor's degree in psychology from Berry College. Outside of work, she can be found riding horses, dancing, hiking with her dog, or traveling with her significant other.