Connections: Women Leaders of the Upstate

“An asset for me, both personally and professionally.”

“The speakers were interesting and inspiring; the text was a wake-up call; and my fellow classmates had so much to offer in discussion.”

“A wonderful and constructive experience!”

Statements from previous participants demonstrate the value of this unique leadership development program for upstate women.

In its twelfth year, Connections: Women Leaders of the Upstate is designed for women of all ages who have either already demonstrated leadership abilities or who have been identified as possessing potential for leadership.  Furman University sponsors this premier leadership development program to bring women together to connect, take control of their careers, become stronger leaders and make significant contributions to their communities.  Governed by an advisory board and selected from nominations, the class is limited in size, so the networking potential is powerful. 
           
Connections alumni include women who represent many facets of leadership – from community volunteerism to professional roles in a variety of businesses and industry.  They are a diverse group by age, race and interest, but all share a common theme, demonstrating the many ways in which women lead in their communities. 

Connections meets at Furman University in the new Younts Conference Center beginning with an evening orientation and kickoff presentation; features a luncheon/lecture/discussion series on issues confronting women in leadership and concludes with the graduation dinner and keynote speaker.  We anchor the program each year with two classes featuring women who teach us about “The Power of Presence” (how to be effectively seen and heard) and “Status of Women” (where the power is).  Other speakers have included a panel of elected officials, local ministers, our superintendent of schools, and prominent business and community leaders—all women who have shared their successes and struggles while challenging us to the next level.  The tuition, which covers all costs including our text, materials and meals, is $400.  Call or e-mail Tommie Reece for more information: 294-2156, t ommie.reece@furman.edu.

Previous speakers include:

Deb Sofield, President of Windsor Lewis Sofield and member of Greenville City Council, brings her skill as an executive speech and presentation coach to teach us how to make “Presentations That Generate Results.”   
                       
Dr. Linda Salane, Executive Director of the Leadership Institute and the South Carolina Alliance for Women, and Special Assistant to the President at Columbia College, calls us to leadership involvement with “The Status of Women.”

Susan Lill, owner of Align HR Services and founder of the successful Business Women in Action group at the Greenville Chamber of Commerce, presents “Networking: Building Your Sphere of Influence.”

Quick Facts about Connections:

• 2009 tuition: $400 includes 6 events
• Average class size: 32
• Number of speakers: 6-8