About Resource of the Month

Welcome to the Resource of the Month! Here you will find up-to-date resources to help you develop personally and professionally. This section is designed for quick reference and awareness about topics that are important to any woman. Each month we will be featuring a new topic with associated resources and a highlighted Woman with Purpose. Make sure to review the last page of our Skill Set Matrix  and How to Use... documents to help you navigate the ROM.

"... I have seen first-hand the benefits our members are gaining from the programming provided by The LI. Our members are always thrilled to attend sessions they offer... The strong relationships and outstanding customer service the facilitators and staff of The LI give is so valuable and appreciated by the women of Alpha Sigma Alpha.”

Hilary Moe, Leadership Development & Event Coordinator, Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority>>go there now

How did your education and past experiences prepare you for your leadership assignment as President of EWI Indianapolis?

I think this goes back to how I was raised as a child.  I was raised in a single parent household.  I was given responsibilities early on.  My father, though I didn’t live with him, also encouraged me to be responsible.  He even made me sign up for a basic automotive class in the 9th grade.  The class taught me how to change a tire, check the oil, the basics on how the car operates.  As an adult, my career took me down a project management path – many hours of training people and teambuilding.

What motivates you most about being the President of an organization that has a global outreach predominately to women?

The motivation for me comes from the fact that we as women think differently.  Not right or wrong, just different.  It is a different dynamic in a meeting with men vs. women.  We need to understand this and support each other.  Women tend to take on many roles within and outside of the household.  In order to attain equal success as men professionally, women must be prepared to face and overcome great obstacles.

With an ever-changing economy, what has been the greatest challenge faced by the EWI and the women who are dedicated to service and making an impact?

Time.  Time is money, but I feel we are seeing more demands and pressure placed upon employees and business owners to perform.  This is creating a “burn-out” effect and throws the balance off.  People need to get involved and be a part of things that are important to them (volunteering, art, gardening, fishing, etc.).  I believe this helps us grow and become even more productive in the career setting.

How important is valuing and maintaining relationships to the members of EWI?

It is extremely important.  Our organization focuses on three C’s:  Connections, Careers and Community.  The relationships I have experienced are invaluable.  This is the support I was talking about.  It translates into someone reaching out to another in the setting of a loved one passing away, job loss, new baby or with a stressful customer issue.

What new opportunities are on the horizon for EWI?

At EWI, we have a renewed emphasis on affordable professional development training which is available through webinars and local seminars.  We learned from survey feedback that many companies, indeed, are cutting back on professional development.

On a personal level, with all you have going on as the President of EWI and owner of ADF Designs, how do you maintain the important relationships you value?

I actually have to plan.  Plan, plan, plan.  I make sure I set aside time and stick to it.  Trust is key.  If you say you are going to do it, then DO IT.  With my family it is about the quality of time rather than the quantity.  I reflect back to my favorite childhood memories.  I don’t remember the daily stuff…it is a picnic, or a game we played as a family, or a vacation that comes to mind.

What mentors have you had in your life and how have they impacted you?

As a young girl my grandmother, Geana, taught me to be independent but still maintain my feminine identity.  In business, Bev Wall has reinforced the idea of not over-thinking things.  The best phrase from her is “it is always something else.”  Simply put, this means people behave differently from day-to-day based on a variety of factors.  This could be a sick child at home, an on-going divorce, or having to face personal challenges.

What advice do you have for young women?

Live on your own for at least one year (if you are thinking of getting married).  In business and in life, always be true to yourself.  Get to know yourself and like who you are.  One of my favorite quotes states, “Whether you think you can, or think you can’t, you’re right.” (Henry Ford)

Are there any resources you would recommend for women regarding valuing and building relationships?

You.  The best resource is you.  Reach out to a person you admire or want to get to know better. Ask them for coffee, lunch or a walk.

Is there anything else you would like to share about the topic of valuing and maintaining relationships?

Valuing is key.  We have to start with ourselves first.  Ask yourself if you are being a good friend, co-worker, sister, wife, or mother.  Relationships take effort for both parties.  Lastly, if you are in any relationship that is abusive, break away.

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