Nurturing Women's Leadership: Insights from Distinguished Thought Leaders

As we celebrate National Women Support Women's Day on December 1, 2023, George Washington University's Center for Excellence in Public Leadership and CommPRO are showcasing the voices and wisdom of trailblazing women who have left an indelible mark on the business landscape.

Insights from female business thought leaders contribute a unique perspective on the current state of women's leadership in the business world and in the workforce. Leaders such as Dr. Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO, Ruder Finn Inc., Sabrina George, CMO, Xcyte Digital Corporation, Allyson Hugley, Global Director, Customer Insights, LinkedIn Marketing Solutions | Customer Science, Meredith Maskara, CEO, Girl Scouts of Greater NY, Linda Rutherford, Chief Administration & Communications Officer, Southwest Airlines Company, Marian Salzman, Senior Vice President, Global Communications, Philip Morris International, Lisa Sepulveda, Global Chief Client Officer, Edelman, Valerie Simon, Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, Lumeris, and Patrice Tanaka, Founder & Chief Joy Officer, Joyful Planet LLC.

These thought leaders were invited to share their reflections on two pivotal questions that are at the heart of the exploration into women's leadership:

In your experience, what leadership development and management training opportunities have been effective in retaining female talent and helping women move up into leadership roles?

• What do you believe is still needed to further support and advance women in leadership positions?

In the following, we present the thoughtful responses of these influential women, offering a glimpse into their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future of women in leadership.