'Women Lead' conference deemed success, hopes for another

The Great Northern Lodge Room in Malta was the site of the first ever Women Lead Phillips County seminar and many in attendance hope it is not the last.

“We had a tremendous event and I don't think one person left not exclaiming how good the event was and hoping there would be another,” said Anne Boothe, one of the event’s organizers.

The day included speaker KellyAnne Terry who talked about the basic elements of “Gracious Space” which covered spirit, invite the stranger and learn in public. Boothe said the seminar also included an exercise that involved a series of personal questions that “made us reflect on the elements and how different experiences impact us all differently.”

Rebecca Engum, the keynote speaker, talked about leadership and focused on remaining humble, staying true, improve by intent, give merits to others, build those around you, and giving back. The event was hosted by the Phillips County Community Foundation (PCCF) whose board members include: Sally Salveson, Juli Snedigar, Boothe, Cheri Doll, Vicki Eggebrecht, and Carol Kienenberger. PCCF is a local organization that serves as a steward for private assets entrusted to the foundations by donors.

“We are committed to building a permanent endowment fund which can serve as community savings account for future generations - $5 from each fee paid for the Women Lead event will help to build the endowment," Boothe said.

To learn more about PCCF visit pccommunityfoundation.weebly.com.

Another element of the seminar was the Panel of Opportunities featuring local businesswomen including Julie Snellman, owner of Art's Furniture, Carly Bishop, owner of Bishop Inc., Real Estate and Development, and Avery Sorenson, Manager of Family Matters.

“What a great event, and so well received,” Bishop told the PCN. “I was happy to see so many women take part and how involved those in attendance were in the discussion. It’s amazing to see just how invested people are in the success of our community. I think the event was a great way to bring those people together and kick-start a conversation about how to continue supporting growth in Phillips County.”

Boothe, like Bishop, was pleased with the participation and hopes to co-coordinate similar events in the near future.

“Anyone wishing to help with planning is asked to contact any board members,” she said.