Page 21 - LRCC July 2020 Focus

ECONOMIC CLUB

Women’s Leadership Panel

Shares Insights on Pathways

to Success

THERE ARE MULTIPLE PATHWAYS TO LEADERSHIP FOR WOMEN including hard
work, seeking out mentors, networking, and service to others according to the
Women’s Leadership Panel during the June 3 Lansing Economic Club. The
prestigious panel included Marianne Samper, retired attorney, Willingham
and Cote, PC; Rachelle Neal, founder, owner and chief researcher for Capitol
Research Services and Paula Cunningham, state director for AARP Michigan. “You have to have a passion for what you do,” said Cunningham. “There is
The program was moderated by Cameo King, CEO, Good Girl Radio and nothing that should replace your core values. You must know who you are. You
founder and president, Grit Glam and Guts. need to take care of yourself and your family.”

Marianne Samper told the audience that to be successful, women must be “We have to understand and accept that we can’t be all things to all people,” said
prepared for hard work. Neal. “Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. Be kind to yourself. Don’t
beat yourself up.”
“It takes time, and it takes discipline,” said Samper. “You have to find your path
to get there.” “Balance is a fleeting thing,” said Samper. “You are always going to be going
one way or the other. What’s important is for you to be mindful when you are
All the panelists have a deep history of community service, and networking, getting out of balance and get yourself back in balance.”
which they agreed are critical to long-term success. Panelists were also asked
about challenges women face in trying to balance responsibilities at home and Cunningham, Neal, and Samper have all been recipients of the ATHENA
work. Paula Cunningham shared that she chose to remain at home for several award. All three stressed the importance of one of ATHENA’s core values—
years when her children were young. authenticity, and the importance of service to the community. n

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