4th Annual InfluencHer Leadership Summit Empowers the Next Generation of Leaders

Washington County - What happens when you give a group of middle school girls a day to try something new, meet women with different experiences, and step outside of what feels comfortable?

That was the spirit of the fourth annual InfluencHer Leadership Summit, held at Washington State College of Ohio, where 21 girls from across Washington County came together for a day of leadership development, mentorship, and connection.

‍Co-hosted by Building Bridges to Careers (BB2C) and Marietta Community Foundation, the summit was designed to give participants more than a traditional leadership lesson. Throughout the day, the girls were encouraged to participate, ask questions, take risks, and consider what it means to grow into a confident leader.

Through hands-on workshops, conversations, and activities, participants explored confidence, communication, taking risks, and learning from mistakes. They were encouraged to challenge the pressure to always have the right answer or get everything right the first time, and instead see unfamiliar experiences as opportunities to learn.

‍That message was reinforced by the diverse group of mentors who guided the girls throughout the day. Each mentor brought her own career, experiences, and perspective, giving participants the opportunity to hear different stories and see that there is no single path to leadership or success. The girls were able to ask questions, engage in conversations, and learn directly from women working and serving in a variety of roles throughout the community.

“The InfluencHer event is a powerful celebration of ambition, confidence and courage,” said Laura Miller, emcee of the event. “We championed 21 young women to become intentionally thoughtful and independent by partnering them with a single mentor for the entire event. Both the mentors and the youth are challenged throughout the day to share honestly and to, open-mindedly, learn to stand up for what is right and true. By emceeing the event I have a birds-eye view of the growth and fun. There’s no better way to spend a beautiful summer day in Marietta than volunteering for the InfluencHer event.”

‍By the end of the day, each participant left with a comprehensive toolkit of leadership skills, a copy of The Confidence Code for Girls: Taking Risks, Messing Up, & Becoming Your Amazingly Imperfect, Totally Powerful Self, new friendships, and commemorative keepsakes.

The experience was made possible by the many women who volunteered their time and expertise to serve as mentors and leaders throughout the day.

‍Dedicated mentors: Aleece Dye, Allie Schultheis, Carole Hancock, Carrie Thrash, Cathy Harper, Courtney Wentz, Daneka Hedges, Danielle Bruni, Elizabeth Godfrey, Emily Gillian, Gretchen Flinner, Jennifer Schenkel, Jessica Daye, Jessica Slavin, Kari Cross, Kate Evans, Kelsy Eaton, Lindsay Evans, Lori Hart, Sally Evans, and Sophie Evans.

‍Session leaders: Britton Allen; Becky Mathis-Stump of Ethos Leadership; Kari Cross of Washington State College of Ohio; Rachel Burnham of Rockstar Wellness; Sarah Miller of Blessing Birds; and Jenna Stewart of Building Bridges to Careers.

‍Dynamic emcee: Laura Miller.

‍The welcoming venue: Washington State College of Ohio

About the InfluencHer Leadership Summit
The InfluencHer Leadership Summit brings together enthusiastic young minds, passionate mentors, and engaging activities to equip tweens with essential leadership skills. Throughout the day, participants (known as “influencHers”) embark on an immersive journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and hands-on mentorship.

About Building Bridges to Careers (BB2C)
BB2C offers career mentoring, job shadowing, internships, and career exploration to students. They foster relationships that inspire career choice and work to support successful students, prosperous businesses, and thriving communities.

About Marietta Community Foundation
Since its founding, Marietta Community Foundation has served as a trusted philanthropic partner, helping individuals, families, and organizations turn generosity into lasting impact. Powered by the strength of local giving, MCF has awarded more than $37 million in grants and scholarships—supporting nonprofits, empowering students, and enriching communities across Washington County. Today, with over $78 million in assets and more than 400 funds, the Foundation continues to connect people, passion, and purpose to build a stronger, more vibrant future. Learn more at www.mcfohio.org.