Beyond the Gates 2026: Preparing for Life and Work after Sewanee is an in-person, two-day event. Juniors and seniors develop career-readiness through panels, practice interviews, 1:1 networking conversations, and hearing the experiences of graduates from a variety of backgrounds.
2026 Beyond the Gates Keynote Speaker: Cathy Carlisi C'89, P'25
Cathy Carlisi C'89, P'25 - Managing Director, BCG Brighthouse
Cathy has fished for piranhas in the Amazon, survived a 150km bike race with a night camping at a whiskey distillery, and gotten married in Rome with a Papal Blessing. But she considers helping to pioneer the purpose movement her most thrilling challenge. Cathy joined BCG BrightHouse shortly after its founding, and invested over two decades growing its processes, products, frameworks, and staff into the premier purpose consultancy.
She received a B.A. from Sewanee, where she received Magna Cum Laude, Phi Beta Kappa Distinction. She also attended The Portfolio Center for writing and art direction and spent two years studying poetry. Cathy began her career in advertising, winning awards at top-tier agencies including Carmichael Lynch and Fallon. She is a published poet and painter, and shares her love for her family and friends through abundant Italian cooking.
You can see her TEDx talk here and her award-winning book of poetry on Amazon or The Sewanee Bookstore.
