Empowering Young Women Summit connects girls with local leaders

Posted by Theresa Tanner on 5/26/2023

A woman speaking into a microphone on a panel with other women to a group of high school students.

"Be willing to walk through the door when it's opened to you. Even when you're nervous about what's on the other side, even if you're not sure it's what you want to do … walk through it and see."

That was advice from Innovia Foundation CEO Shelly O'Quinn to group of 70 high school students during Spokane Public Schools' first Empowering Young Women Summit at the NEWESD 101 Talbott Event Center on Wednesday, May 24.

The day itself was full of open doors, as students heard advice from 22 local women who have found professional success in diverse industries – including academia and education, emergency services, journalism, engineering and construction, banking and finance, and more.

"We organized this event to introduce young women in our high schools to successful women. We want them to learn from local leaders that hard work, dedication, and a support network helps create a bright future as they achieve their post-secondary goals," said Becky Ramsey, SPS Director of Teaching and Learning.

Students asked questions about making sure their work is valued and working with people who may not always offer respect. They also had time to connect one-on-one with panelists, asking advice about specific careers.

Montana Elder, a junior at North Central High School, said she was excited to attend because she likes hearing other women’s stories. "I want to know how they got to the position they are in. I want to be inspired as well," she said.

A woman speaks with students.

Following a lunch provided by students in NEWTech Prep’s Culinary and Hospitality program, students also participated in a Q&A with local elected leaders, moderated by KREM 2 News investigative reporter and anchor Whitney Ward.

Students shared about dealing with discouragement and asked how leaders overcame barriers to their goals.

Spokane County Commissioner Mary Kuney talked about wanting to improve conditions for other women interested in leadership roles. "You need to have the courage to have conversations and have the facts, so you can challenge others in a respectful way," she said. "If you are kind and respectful, then they will get the point."

"You have to have a good relationship with yourself," said Ochoa-Bruck. "You've heard of imposter syndrome? You must affirm yourself. You've earned this job, you belong here."

Spokane Mayor Nadine Woodward reminded the group that even when making goals and striving for something, they should be flexible and forgiving if things don’t go according to plan. "Let yourself make mistakes. Give yourself grace if you decide to change course, your path will still get you where you want to go," she said.

"Try not to be intimidated," Councilwoman Karen Statton advised. "Think about the people that you want to be strong for."

SPS School Board Vice President Nikki Lockwood, who was the first person of Latinx/Hispanic heritage elected to public office in Spokane, told the group it can be hard to see yourself as a leader when you’ve never seen a role model resembling yourself. "We are the hopes and dreams of our ancestors, we all came from strong people," she said, reminding students to stay positive even in negative situations.

Thank you to these guests for their time and support of SPS students:

Dr. Celestina Barbosa-Leiker, Washington State University Health Sciences Spokane

Dr. Melissa Bedford, Spark Central; SPS Board of Directors

Alisha Benson, Greater Spokane Inc.

Bridget Blackmore, Spokane Fire Department

Catherine Brazil, University of Washington

Channing Curtis, KREM 2 News

Shannon Demant, College Success Foundation

Marty Dickinson, STCU

Anna Franklin, Providence EWA/MT

Coach Lisa Fortier, Gonzaga University Women’s Basketball

Melissa Gombosky, Gombosky Public Affairs