Emerging Leaders Conference

Ardis Kelley, Interim CEO, Iowa Society of CPAs

Ardis Kelley, CPA is the Interim CEO of the Iowa Society of CPAs, leading the organization through a critical transition by ensuring stability, strengthening stakeholder relationships, and fostering a strong member community. In this role, she is focused on enhancing member engagement, supporting advocacy efforts, and positioning the organization for long-term success.

Previously, Ardis served as Interim CFO at Bank of Jabez, where she developed a financial roadmap, and as Chief Strategy Officer at the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines, where she led cross-departmental initiatives that generated new business and implemented the bank’s strategic plan. She also held the role of Chief Accounting Officer, overseeing financial reporting and data analytics. Her earlier career includes senior positions at Accenture, CNA, and AEGON USA Investment Management.

Committed to social impact and financial education, Ardis serves on multiple boards, including Des Moines Performing Arts, Iowa Public Radio, Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation, Des Moines Water Works Park Foundation, Bravo Greater Des Moines, the Community Foundation of Greater Des Moines, Endow Urbandale and Obesity Awareness in Action.

Ardis holds a B.A. from UCLA and a Master of Accounting from USC and is a Certified Public Accountant, licensed in California and Iowa, and member of the AICPA and Iowa Society of CPAs.

Bob Chonka, Speaker, Sollah Interactive, LLC

Bob Chonka is co-leader of Sollah, an award-winning learning solutions company that has transformed workplace culture for over 6 million employees worldwide. He has over 25 years in the training industry since beginning his career in the 1990s at American Media Incorporate (the #1 training film organization at the time).
Bob oversees business strategy and spearheads creative development. He is hands-on when developing Sollah’s Hollywood-caliber video productions leveraging advanced learning psychology, transcending conventional training models to create lasting behavioral change. This innovative methodology has proven particularly powerful in addressing contemporary workplace challenges, from navigating generational dynamics to fostering authentic inclusivity.
Bob’s philosophy centers on relationship-building and respect, helping organizations prioritize employee success to create enduring partnerships that drive long-term value. He strives to create content that strikes a unique chord by engaging both heart and mind, seamlessly translating learning into actionable workplace behaviors.
Bob complements his corporate acumen with competitive tennis and contemplative fishing expeditions, embodying the art of work-life synergy.

Lindsay Pilgrim, VP of Human Resources, Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Company

Lindsay Pilgrim has worked in strategic HR roles for over 20 years in industries ranging from healthcare, technology, distribution, and insurance. Currently, Lindsay serves as the Vice President of Human Resources for Pharmacists Mutual Insurance Group, where she oversees the HR functions for about 300 employees nationwide. Lindsay is originally from NE Iowa and holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree from the University of Northern Iowa. In her spare time, Lindsay attends the activities for her 4 kids, while trying to squeeze in some boating and golfing in the summer months.

Lynsey Mulder, Speaker, Mulder Consulting LLC

Lynsey Mulder is a dynamic speaker, accomplished coach, and the visionary behind SparkLife—a journey that has empowered individuals, teams, and organizations to unlock potential, ignite passion, and take inspired action. As a leading authority on business and life strategy, Lynsey combines her wealth of experience with a passion for helping others create intentional, fulfilling lives.

With a career spanning Fortune 100 C-suite leadership, founding her own company, and raising four amazing boys, Lynsey has a unique perspective on balancing ambition and life’s complexities. She splits her time between speaking at conferences, collaborating with organizations, and inspiring students on college campuses across the country. Lynsey also works one-on-one with individuals as an elite coach, holding three certifications and a reputation for helping clients achieve extraordinary results.

Known for transforming game-changing ideas into practical takeaways, Lynsey connects with audiences in a way that is relatable, energizing, and unforgettable. Her strategies are built on years of experience and are designed to empower others, elevate them to new levels, and inspire them to reach goals they once thought impossible.

Her keynotes and workshops are packed with engaging stories, high-energy exercises, and actionable tools that attendees can apply immediately—whether sparking new possibilities at work, transforming team culture, or reigniting personal growth. Lynsey has spoken at conferences, colleges, and companies nationwide, leaving a ripple effect of energized, motivated, and inspired attendees who are ready to create lasting change.