About DREAM Academy
You’ve dreamed of becoming the kind of leader others aspire to follow. You’ve got the experience and passion—but not the roadmap. That’s where DREAM Academy comes in.
This 5-day immersive leadership experience in Las Vegas is designed specifically for mid-career professionals ready to break through the plateau, find clarity, and propel themselves into their next chapter with purpose, confidence, and connections.
Backed by the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, DREAM Academy features speakers, presentations, and insights from proven leaders in multiple industries. The Academy blends cross-industry mentorship, real-world application, and exclusive Vegas-based experiential learning for a transformational experience like no other.
DREAM = Direction | Resources | Education | Advancement | Motivation
Let’s make your dream career a reality.
Meet the Instructors of DREAM Academy
DREAM Academy is proud to feature a world-class lineup of instructors who are not
only thought leaders in their fields, but also passionate mentors committed to
developing the next generation of leaders. From award-winning educators and C-suite
executives to crisis leadership experts, futurists, and communication strategists, our
faculty brings a powerful blend of real-world experience, academic excellence, and
diverse perspectives to every session. This exceptional access to top-tier talent and
transformative content is exclusive to the DREAM Academy—offering participants a
truly one-of-a-kind learning experience you won’t find anywhere else.
2025 DREAM Academy Program Agenda
9:00 AM – Craig Ferreira
Session: Introduction, DISC Analysis & Networking (Breaks Included)
Welcome to the Academy. Overview of the Leaderverse Initiative, program goals, and personal growth through leadership. Interactive networking session to build connections, strengthen communication, and practice personal introductions.
12:00 PM – Lunch & Networking
1:00 PM – Tyler Burtis
Session: Everyday Leadership – Part 1
Leadership is needed at all levels of an organization and in a variety of circumstances. Dr. Kristine Burtis and Tyler Burtis blend leadership theory with the pragmatic application of real leadership in competitive, entertainment, and high-risk environments in this two-part education session.
2:00 PM – Break
2:15 PM – Dr. Kristine Burtis
Session: Everyday Leadership – Part 2
3:30 PM – Conclusion
9:00 AM – Craig Ferreira
Session: Introduction
Day overview and framing the leadership journey ahead.
9:15 AM – Amy Pourciau
Session: Modern Organizational Leadership – Part 1
Navigating modern leadership roles while fostering belonging, purpose, and organizational alignment.
10:15 AM – Break
10:30 AM – Amy Pourciau
Session: Modern Organizational Leadership – Part 2
Deepening understanding of mentorship, motivation, and managing diverse teams.
12:00 PM – Lunch & Networking
1:00 PM – Steven Light and Kathryn Rand
Session: Professional Goal Setting for You & Your Organization
Case studies from real-world crises and leadership lessons from law enforcement and threat assessment.
3:00 PM – Break
3:15 PM – Transportation to Mob Museum
3:45 PM – Tour and Discussion: Mob Museum
5:15 PM – Reception in Court Room
6:45 PM – Return to Black Fire
9:00 AM – Craig Ferreira
Session: Introduction
Kickoff and overview of the day.
9:15 AM – Anne Leets
Session: Leadership Skills & Self-Perception
Identify critical skills for modern leaders and shape how others perceive your leadership brand.
10:30 AM – Break
10:45 AM – Christine Cassiano
Session: Leading at Every Level: Understanding Leadership Styles and Building Skills for Lasting Impact
Leadership is not defined by a title; it is defined by the influence we have on others and the culture we create around us.
12:00 PM – Lunch and Networking
1:00 PM – Earle G. Hall
Keynote: Perspectives on Leadership
Insights from a futurist and entrepreneur on leadership, technology, and human behavior.
2:00 PM – George “Trey” Smith
Session: Understanding the Nuances of Workplace Culture
Understand how values, behaviors, and norms impact team dynamics and success.
3:00 PM – Break
3:30 PM – George “Trey” Smith
Session: Modern Day Business Etiquette
Master professional communication, emotional intelligence, and relationship-building in the workplace.
4:00 PM – Conclusion
9:00 AM – Craig Ferreira
Session: Introduction
Opening remarks and preparing for the final day.
9:15 AM – Tim Furlong
Session: Emerging Stronger: Change Opportunity and the Next Normal
Learn how to adapt to constant change and lead through evolving business challenges.
10:30 AM – Break
10:45 AM – Tim Furlong
Session: The 3 Cs of Success
Explore leadership agility, coaching, and strategies for developing high-performing teams.
12:00 PM – Lunch & Networking
1:00 PM – Claire Krawsczyn
Session: Communicate Your Brand: Personal Branding & Communication for Emerging Leaders
Build your personal brand and communicate with clarity and impact.
2:00 PM – Break
2:15 PM – Noah Ahmed
Session: The Power of Improv
Learn to think on your feet, communicate under pressure, and lead with confidence.
3:15 PM – Adam Torres
Session: Ethics, Integrity & Action
Explore the role of integrity in leadership and aligning personal values with professional decisions.
4:15 PM – Conclusion
9:30 AM – Caesars Entertainment Behind-the-Scenes Tour and Executive Panel Discussion
Enjoy a behind the scenes tour with Caesars Entertainment. Understand how gambling, entertainment, hotel, food & beverage, and other amenities work together to create a seamless customer experience. We will also enjoy a panel discussion with Caesars Executive Leadership Team.
12:00 PM – Conclusion and Certificate Presentation
Why DREAM Academy?
Because real leadership isn’t learned in a textbook. It’s built through action, mentorship, challenge, and connection. DREAM Academy is part of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas’s Leadership Initiatives, and was created to give you:
- A clear sense of direction through vision-mapping and personalized career strategy.
- Access to elite mentors and speakers from hospitality, tech, nonprofits, and other high-impact industries.
- Hands-on experiences uniquely designed for Las Vegas—an energetic city where innovation meets hustle.
- Tools you can use now, not just theory—so you walk away ready to lead more effectively the moment you return to work.
- A lifelong professional network of alumni, experts, and peers.
This isn’t just a program—it’s a pivotal moment in your career journey.
Who Is Ideal for DREAM Academy?
This program is perfect for:
- Professionals early stages of their career looking to pivot, level up, or lead with greater impact.
- Managers and directors aiming to break into senior leadership or executive roles.
- Entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs ready to scale their influence and sharpen their strategic mindset.
- Individuals feeling “stuck” or seeking clarity for their next career chapter.
Our participants come from industries including hospitality, technology, healthcare, education, entertainment, nonprofits, and corporate services.
Why Is DREAM Academy Worth the Money?
Because you’re not just paying for a seminar—you’re investing in:
- Your transformation: From unclear to confident. From competent to visionary.
- Real-world skills and tools: Learn how to communicate like a C-suite leader, make strategic decisions, and build powerful teams.
- Lifelong ROI: Your career trajectory doesn’t need more “busy work”—it needs smart work. DREAM gives you that edge.
- Exclusive Las Vegas experiences: Not available anywhere else—high-level networking, behind-the-scenes access, and powerful immersive challenges.
Your career is your most important asset. The DREAM Academy maximizes your return.