Main stage

Who's on stage

Ignite 2027 brings two keynote speakers — Damon West on Tuesday and Dr. Ashley Smith on Wednesday — plus an economic outlook session led by an economist from Fifth Third.

Keynote Speaker

Damon West

Keynote speaker & four-time bestselling author

Damon West is an internationally known keynote speaker, four-time bestselling author, and formerly incarcerated individual once sentenced to life for organized crime. Called the “modern-day Shawshank Redemption” and “most in-demand speaker in America” by USA Today, Damon inspires audiences with his powerful story of redemption and resilience.

Dr. Ashley Smith

Psychologist, speaker, author & co-founder of Peak Mind

Dr. Ashley Smith is a psychologist, speaker, author, and co-founder of Peak Mind. She challenges audiences to master their minds. Born with a rare vision impairment, she knows firsthand what it takes to break limits and live boldly—and now teaches others how to do the same.

Tom Jalics

Economist, Fifth Third

Tom Jalics of Fifth Third will deliver a general economic overview for 2027 — a data-driven read on where the economy is headed and what it means for the year ahead.