Unveiling the Leader Within: 2nd Annual InfluencHer Leadership Summit
On Friday, August 2, 2024, the 2nd Annual InfluencHer Leadership Summit transformed an ordinary day into an extraordinary journey of growth and empowerment.
Organized by Building Bridges to Careers and Marietta Community Foundation, the event proved that being an influencer is not just about social media; it's about the impact each person can make when they have the courage to use their voice, support others, and make a difference.
20 middle-school girls from nearly every school in Washington County participated, many starting the day feeling a mixture of nervousness and curiosity. By the time they left, they were beaming with newfound confidence and excitement. This incredible shift was guided by a diverse group of mentors, ranging from age 18 to 80+, who shared their unique experiences and wisdom to fuel the girls' growth and encouraged the girls every step of the way.
The summit offered a rich array of workshops and activities designed to foster essential leadership skills such as communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and self-confidence. Through hands-on projects and team exercises, the girls discovered their own strength and potential, stepping confidently into their roles as future leaders.
“We wanted these girls to realize that leadership is more about influence and action than authority,” said Courtney Wentz, Communications and Marketing Director at Marietta Community Foundation. “Our goal was for them to leave feeling empowered to lead in their everyday lives, no matter their role.”
Each participant walked away with a comprehensive toolkit of leadership skills, a copy of The Confidence Code for Girls: Taking Risks, Messing Up, & Becoming Your Amazingly Imperfect, Totally Powerful Self, new friendships, and a commemorative t-shirt and water bottle.
The success of InfluencHer relies on the generosity and dedication of many. Mentors took time away from their own work, local experts volunteered to lead workshops, and monetary donations covered all expenses, making the event free for all participants.
Our heartfelt thanks go to:
The dedicated mentors: Stacey Adams Hall, Jenn Castle, Kim Cisler, Kari Cross, Sally Evans, Paige Griffith, Carole Hancock, Cathy Harper, Heather Kincaid, Jill Kirtland, Tessa Kotulock, Debora Lazorik, Beth Lepore, Amelia Schenkel, Sarah Schmidt, Carol Schneeberger, Allie Schultheis, Chrissy Wolfe, Katie Wolfe, Suzy Zumwalde.
The insightful session leaders: Britton Allen; Shannon Tschopp from McDonough Center for Leadership and Business; Heather Warner from GoPacks; Rachel Burnham from Rockstar Wellness; Kristi Leonard-Webber and Jenna Stewart from Building Bridges to Careers.
The dynamic emcee: Laura Miller.
The welcoming venue: Washington State College of Ohio.
The supportive sponsors: Marietta Noon Rotary Club, Elliott Financial Group.
With every summit, we aim to spark potential, helping more girls embrace their strengths and lead with confidence. As we look ahead, we envision a future where each participant not only influences their community but also inspires others to follow their lead.
About the InfluencHer Leadership Summit
The InfluencHer Leadership Summit is a unique gathering that brings together enthusiastic young minds, passionate mentors, and engaging activities, all with the goal of equipping tweens with essential leadership skills. Throughout the day, participants (known as “influencHers”) will embark on an immersive journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and hands-on mentorship.
About Building Bridges to Careers (BB2C)
BB2C offers career mentoring, job shadowing, internships, and career exploration to students. They foster relationships to inspire career choice and work to support successful students, prosperous businesses, and thriving communities.
About Marietta Community Foundation
For 50 years, Marietta Community Foundation has been a driving force in philanthropy, creating local and lasting change throughout Washington County, OH. With nearly $30M of grants and scholarships awarded and boasting $50M in assets across 350+ funds, the Foundation remains a strong, steadfast ally for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations seeking to create lasting charitable impact. Learn more at www.mcfohio.org.
