Bold ideas. Real-world challenges. Powerful connections.
Since 2010, the Parker Leadership Conference has brought together driven students, inspiring speakers, and experienced facilitators to explore what it means to lead with purpose. Using an interactive case study model, participants dive into complex business issues, sharpen their critical thinking skills, and discover their own leadership style along the way.
This dynamic event was made possible by visionary partners Ethan Berman and Ken Parker, who, despite having no formal connection to OU, were so impressed by the graduates they hired at RiskMetrics that they decided to invest in future leaders through an endowed fund. With support from former Dean Ken Evans and the JCPenney Leadership Program, the Parker Leadership Development Fund was born.
Now a cornerstone experience for JCPenney Leadership students, the conference has grown beyond its roots to fuel additional leadership development opportunities from national corporate visits to hands-on training for student leaders.
Creating Positive Change in Business and Beyond
Date: Friday March 7, 2025
Time: 9AM - 1PM
Location: OCCE Forum Building , 1704 Asp Ave, Norman, OK 73072
Mike Beckham graduated summa cum laude from the University of Oklahoma Price College of Business in 2003. He began his career with a nine-year tenure at the worldwide nonprofit Christian ministry CRU before transitioning to full-time entrepreneurship in 2012. Since then, he has built brands that have collectively generated over $2 billion in retail sales.
Today, Mike is the CEO and co-founder of Simple Modern, one of the world’s leading drinkware companies. Simple Modern has established major partnerships with Amazon, Target, and Walmart, and is a licensed partner for the NFL, NBA, NCAA, and Disney. Beyond business success, Simple Modern is deeply committed to philanthropy, donating over $10 million to nonprofits over the past decade.
Mike is also passionate about mentorship and leadership. He serves as an advisor and mentor to several companies and aspiring entrepreneurs. In addition to his work in the business world, he is an elder at his church, the Senior Entrepreneur-in-Residence at OU, and a host of The Operators podcast.
He lives in Norman, Oklahoma, with his wife of 22 years, Heather, and their two children, Carter and Kenzie.
