Written By: Laura Davidson, PMP, Director at Large
On October 22, The Home Depot corporate headquarters hosted its 6th annual Women’s Leadership summit in Atlanta. The Women’s Link connects women with the opportunities, experiences, and visibility they need to move into leadership roles at The Home Depot.
With 350 in attendance, this year’s event had a record turnout. The theme, “Say Yes to Your Journey”, was championed by the following leaders that each presented during the day-long conference:
- Yvonne Byars, PMI Atlanta Vice Chair; “How Effective Are Your Meetings?”
- Chris Coussens, PMI Atlanta Toastmasters President; “How to Manage Without Authority”
- Laura Davidson, PMI Atlanta Director; “You Can’t Live a Positive Life With a Negative Mind” and “Managing in a Multi-Generational Organization”
- Sandra Hofmann, Author, Former WIT President: “Wearing Heels for the Leadership Journey”
- Lydia James, PMI Atlanta VP of Volunteer Coordination; “What’s Your Personal Brand?”
- Trina Nkhazi, Project Manager, City of Atlanta; “Requirements Planning: Perfect Recipe for Success”
- Evelyn Rosier, PMI Atlanta Treasurer; “Balancing Work-Life Through Time & Money Management”
PMI Atlanta Director, Cathy Luby organized our representation at the event and encouraged each speaker to deliver a message that reminds the audience that our professional "journey is just as important as the final destination."
The opening keynote speaker, Laurel J. Richie, President of Women’s National Basketball Association, reminded all that being prepared means making the most of the unexpected. Richie’s inspiring message shared that her professional journey included reluctantly accepting marketing assignments and turning those into personal feats of remarkable accomplishment that gave her the strength and confidence she has today.
Closing speaker Missy Dugan, President of the Boys and Girls Club of Atlanta, shared how her personal tragedy feeds her passion for youth leadership and philanthropy. Dugan shared transformational success stories from the BGCMA highlighting its measureable success in afterschool development programs promoting academic success, healthy lifestyles and character.