NAWMBA Conference - in a word, inspiring
I had the great pleasure of attending the NAWMBA (National Association of Women MBA's) Conference in Louisville, KY the past few days. Here are some of my thoughts...
1. Louisville is a beautiful, charming city! I had never been to the revitalized downtown area before, only the Historic District. The city is very well-kept, people are extremely friendly, and the restaurants and pubs are busy and delightful.
2. There are so MANY amazing, powerful, awe-inspiring, talented women. I have always been impressed by Fisher women (and all the students!), but it was mind-blowing to meet so many other ambitious, insightful women that I shared so much in common with.
3. Karen Hough of ImprovEdge, gave me so much to think about. Her presence, her warm smile, her thoughtfulness and ability to read and respond to her audience is something that truly touched me. Her presentation resonated with me, and I encourage everyone to check out her company, her philosophy, and also her book launch, which is happening in March 2011 right here in Columbus!
4. Lynn Tilton. What can I even say about her? This is a confident, self-secure woman who has absolutely no compunction about sharing her deepest thoughts about the American economy, manufacturing, industry, morals, and how to live life like it's the only one you have - because it is. Listening to her speak had me on the verge of either crying or spontaneously standing up or dropping to my knees in acknowledgment and thanks. She espouses values that I try to maintain in myself - and did so eloquently. Again, this a woman EVERYONE needs to know. To anyone that has ever read anything by Ayn Rand, this is the current day embodiment of her theories, philosophies and "fire", in spades. To quote Lynn, the most powerful thing in the world is "people standing shoulder to shoulder, walking together." What a powerful, powerful message.
It's not very often that something happens that shakes me to my core. Points 3 and 4 did that. Without a question. I am truly humbled by what I heard this weekend, and I hope that I can incorporate even just a few of these powerful womens' thoughts and values into my own life.
Many thanks to all the faculty, staff and students of Fisher for their involvement in this conference.