In Person

ELE Meetup: Potluck Brunch | Chicago

Past EventIn Person
Sat est. 2 hours
(UTC)

Meet ELE Contributing Members and get involved
Saturday, Aug 16 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM (or later, if the wine flows!)
Location: At Dirk's Koi Pond | North Park, Chicago

Join Dirk Tussing and ELE Contributing Members for an intimate brunch where insight meets reflection and connection drives momentum. This is where we trade PowerPoint for people-first dialogue, and co-create what comes next for talent development.

Real conversations. Trusted peers.
This isn’t a panel or a presentation—it’s an invitation

We are hosting two relaxed summer brunches with smaller groups from the ELE community. Join us by Dirk's Koi Pond for good conversation, fresh ideas, and easy networking. 🕰️ Choose the date that works for you:
  • Saturday, July 12 at 11:00 AM (CLICK HERE to register)
  • Saturday, August 16 at 11:00 AM (Register on this page)
It's potluck style. Bring a dish to share and a drink that pairs well. 🏃‍♂️ Seats are limited—only 12 per brunch! RSVP now to help us plan.

Think: Casual, Thoughtful, and Fun. This isn’t just a meal—it’s a journey. We’ll move through three reflective prompts to explore what we’re releasing, what’s taking root, and what big shifts we’re chasing. Expect honest, peer-to-peer connection around ideas that matter—personally and professionally. Small group chats, zero pressure, and real talk encouraged. Dress Code: Zen by the Koi Waterfall Effortless. Expressive. Grounded. Come dressed in soft fabrics and relaxed silhouettes—floral prints and organic colors welcome. Think garden elegance meets mindful presence.

✔️ Yes to: breezy linens, flowy dresses, nature-inspired colors and patterns ❌ No to: suits, ties, or anything that says “conference room”

🪷 Dress like you’re about to have your most important conversation of the summer—with someone who really sees you.
Additional Details 🌟 Space is limited to 12 guests for this trust-building experience. 🚗 Street parking is free and readily available.
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Newt Moore
Adjunct Professor @ National Louis UniversityNational Louis University
National Louis University

About Newt Moore

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Newt's interest is in positive psychology focusing on skill acquisition and expertise development. His research includes building computer simulations to assess the advanced thinking skills of technical personnel. Lately, Newt has been involved in the expertise building of engineers, software developers, and IT professionals. This journey has exposed Newt to the advent of skill inventories, skill identification, and emerging skill sensing. Because of this, Newt has learned job deconstruction, task analysis to discover skills.

About Dirk Tussing

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Executive Learning Exchange (ELE) accelerates growth through immersive, peer-driven experiences that elevate your brand, sharpen your strategic edge, and connect you with the talent leaders shaping the future of work. My specialty? Helping talent leaders grow faster—through candid conversations, transformative learning experiences, and access to the right people at the right time.

Laura Jones
VP, Learning and Developmentinsightsoftware
insightsoftware

About Laura Jones

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Innovative, high-impact HR leader with proven experience directing talent development, HR and HR Operations, primarily within global services and technology organizations. Recognized for the ability to develop and implement leading-edge talent programs, fostering individuals’ professional goals and achieving overall organization success through succession planning.

Becca Benson
Sr Talent Development ConsultantAmerican Medical Association
American Medical Association

About Becca Benson

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My career path spans two major areas: education and health care. As a life-long learner with degrees in psychology and counseling, I find myself gravitating towards roles that involve training and application, and colleagues that have the same passion for making a positive, lasting impact.

Erin Joslin
xHead of Talent and Culture @ WeberWeber
Weber

About Erin Joslin

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Emily Decker-Bess
AVP, Manger of Learning Solutions and Operations, PWMRobert W. Baird & Co.
Robert W. Baird & Co.

About Emily Decker-Bess

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I am an experienced educator with a focus on instructional design and e-Learning. In the past, I have worked in fundraising and museums. Regardless of my position, I enjoy collaborating across the organization and connecting with other departments and colleagues to create a learning community in the places I work. To advance myself and the institution I work at, I am on various committees within professional organizations and actively continue my educational journey.

Angelica Stilling
VP, Communications and Marketing @ TMECChicagoland Talent Leaders
Chicagoland Talent Leaders

About Angelica Stilling

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I am a versatile HR leader with 25 years of global experience building and transforming organizations. Most of my background has been in the healthcare industry across drugs, biologics, medical device and clinical software, and I have also been successful in automotive, retail construction, and industrial manufacturing. This breadth gives me a unique ability to excel in different business models. Known as a highly strategic, results-oriented, and empathetic leader, I specialize in talent strategies, org design, and business initiatives to create environments where people can be and bring their best.

Nicole DeFalco
Co-Founder @ Bridge to the BoardroomUpsurge Advisors
Upsurge Advisors

About Nicole DeFalco

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Alaska Fu
Experience DesignerELE Group, LLC
ELE Group, LLC

About Alaska Fu

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Focused on creating impactful design with functionality that suits everyday life. Creating unique emotive experiences in digital design that makes you feel what you are looking at.

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