The Women's Summit

Continental Breakfast and Registration

Summit Opening and Welcome Address

Michael Baston, J.D., Ed.D., President, Cuyahoga Community College

Opening Keynote

Out of Brokenness, We Rise!

Tasha Baston, Founder and CEO of Women Impacting the Next Generation of Sisters (WINGS)

In a moment and without notice, our lives can change forever. Trauma is confusing, intrusive and real. It can take us on a mind ride, filled with twists, turns and curves that tend to break us down. When events come to shake our core, we may question, “Why?” How do we function when things are silent during a difficult time in our lives? The answer: Rise From the Ashes and Come Out! 

Concurrent Breakout Sessions

#1 ― Knowing Your Color: Personality Styles

Holly Craider, Ph.D., Executive Director, Curriculum Development and Assessment

As we continue to rise, it is critical that we reflect on our individual personality styles and the personality styles of our colleagues. In this session, learn how each unique style can be utilized to create empathetic, high-performing teams in the workplace.

#2 ― Student Panel: The Balancing Act

Moderated by Jenny Febbo, Vice President, Integrated Communications

Hear from a panel of Tri-C students on how they balance work, life, family, student involvement and academics. They will also discuss how their support systems, mentorship and use of networking have benefited their personal development.

#3 ― Shatter the Glass: Make Your Move to Management Leadership

Robin Kelly, Ph.D., Assistant Professor, Marketing, Western

Is there still a “glass ceiling” that hinders you from advancing in your career? How does it manifest itself in the workplace? And what can you do to push beyond this invisible barrier? We’ll talk about specific, practical strategies that will help you reach your career potential despite the glass ceiling challenge.

Lunch and Networking Session

Facilitated by Dee Dee Pfister, Ph.D., AVP, Academic Professional Development, Instructional Design and Online Learning, Cuyahoga Community College

Get ready for an interactive and action-packed session to learn strategies and techniques that will take your networking skills to the next level.

Participants will have ample time to meet one another through in-person speed-networking opportunities.

Trailblazers: Women Who Paved the Road for Those Who Follow

Hear the stories of exceptional Cleveland women who have taken risks, risen against adversity, broken new ground and challenged the status quo. Their voices will impart an important message to each of us.

Moderated by Megan O’Bryan, Vice President, Development and President, Tri-C Foundation

Michelle D. Hereford, Chief Nursing Executive, University Hospitals

Constance Hill-Johnson, Owner and Managing Director, Visiting Angels Living Assistance Services

Shana Marbury,  Executive Vice President, Workforce, Community and Economic Development, Cuyahoga Community College

Kirsti Mouncey, LISW-S, LCDCIII, President and CEO, Collaborative to End Human Trafficking

Snack Break

Chris Faciana, Program Director of Sport and Exercise Studies

This 15-minute mindful movement practice incorporates and intertwines meditation, gentle movements and calm breathing. It’s a great way to incorporate self-care into your daily work schedule to help manage stress, reduce muscle tension, strengthen the mind-body connection and synchronize your mind and body with breath and rhythm.

Closing Keynote

Becoming a Realistic Superwoman: Sharing How to Create Your Version of Having it All!

April Thompson, Executive Chef/Owner, Wild Thymez Personal Chef Service