Last month, we experienced one of the very best Leaders Connect presentations in the 25 years of the program. A panel of four women, with the moderator, Chris Sing, talked about their personal experiences moving into positions of leadership. The women and men in the audience felt deep admiration for the panelists. Our emotions ran deep.
We were all delighted and motivated by Sheryl Szady’s story about how she was able to convince the athletic department to agree to grant over 900 women their jackets for their contribution as competitive women athletes who graduated before 1991–92.
Sheryl and Chris in their block “M” jackets
Below, you will find the panelists’ key takeaways from the panel:
From Chris Sing, CPA, MBA:
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“Use your strengths to create your own leadership style” is the takeaway shared by Amy Cell from Amy Cell Talent.
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Responsibility to the younger generations of women leaders goes both ways—from panelist Sheryl Szady, leader of the University of Michigan’s Early Women Letterwinners, nicknamed “The Jacket Gals”.
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“The men in attendance learned more than the women,” says Leaders Connect faithful Michael Cole from Bank of Ann Arbor.
From Joanne Rau
- Leadership traits lie within most people; it takes an opportunity for them to shine.
- Today’s young leaders are more confident, vocal, and impatient. Organizations need to recognize, engage, and develop talent differently than in years past.
- Leadership can be overwhelming; successful leaders set boundaries and prioritize to achieve ultimate success.
Stefanie Simmons, CD FACEP
- Actively seek out ways to outsource parts of your home work that doesn’t bring you joy or build relationships.
- Men and women can be effective mentors and sponsors. Seek out those who are excited to teach you and have the skills or experience you need.
- Lean into the parts of your work that you enjoy. especially where those overlap with things that bring value.
If you missed the panel, you can watch the recap here.
This summer, we are taking a break from Leaders Connect after the event this Wednesday in Detroit until late August, when we will hold a get-together at Zingerman’s Southside.
Also, since I plan to take mini vacations this summer, I will be sending the newsletter on a more irregular basis.
Happy summer to you all!