Award-winning global speaker Grace Adofoli to present Innovator in Residence talk at UW-River Falls Oct. 29
Oct. 14, 2025 – Grace Adofoli, an award-winning global speaker, adviser, coach and consultant, is the fall 2025 Innovator in Residence at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Adofoli will present a talk, presented by the College of Education, Business and Allied Health (CEBAH), on Wednesday, Oct. 29, at 2 p.m. in the Riverview Ballroom in the University Center, 501 Wild Rose Ave., River Falls. The event is free and open to the public.
Adofoli is the founder and CEO of the Shifting Waters Leadership Institute and brings more than a decade of experience shaping transformational change across more than 30 countries in Africa, the Americas and Asia. Known for bridging strategy and soul, her work guides leaders and organizations in designing sustainable, people-centered pathways that drive measurable and lasting impact.
A modern-day tentmaker, Adofoli balances professional excellence with vocational purpose, weaving together international relations, organizational strategy, emotional intelligence and responsible management into a holistic approach to leadership. Her reputation as a trusted adviser, coach and mentor has made her a sought-after partner for leaders navigating complex global challenges.
“Leadership is not optics. It’s integrity. It’s leading from the inside out—so powerfully that others are moved to live with the same conviction,” Adofoli said.
Through her Innovator in Residence talk, titled “We Don’t Patch Cracks: Rebuilding Leadership from the Inside Out,” Adofoli will share insights into innovation, transformation and people-centered leadership—empowering students, faculty and community members to think creatively, act courageously and embrace innovation as a driving force for positive change.
"Innovation is vital in today’s competitive environment,” said Muhammad Chishty, CEBAH dean. “Grace’s perspective will show our students and the community that innovation at every level is the key to leadership in business and leads to professional and personal growth."
The Innovator in Residence series at UW-River Falls showcases individuals who exemplify the application of innovation within their organizations and communities. By engaging with thought leaders like Adofoli, UWRF continues its commitment to cultivating a culture of innovation that equips students with the problem-solving, creative thinking and self-starting skills employers seek.
For more information, email cebah@uwrf.edu or call 715-425-3335.