A New Era of Impact: Empowering Washington County Girls at the 3rd Annual InfluencHer Leadership Summit
Washington County – On Friday, August 8th, twenty bright and determined middle school girls from across Washington County gathered at Washington State College of Ohio. Some arrived nervous, others excited—but all were ready to step into a new era of impact, discovering just how much power they hold to shape their futures.
This was the 3rd annual InfluencHer Leadership Summit, co-hosted by Building Bridges to Careers (BB2C) and Marietta Community Foundation. More than just an event, it was a catalyst designed to ignite confidence and inspire leadership.
Guided by a remarkable and diverse group of mentors, the girls spent the day exploring what leadership truly means. The variety of experiences and stories shared made clear that leadership is not a one-size-fits-all.
Throughout the summit, participants engaged in hands-on workshops, inspiring conversations, and activities that challenged them to think boldly and believe deeply in their own potential. By the day’s end, they 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.
Laney Hitchens, Communications and Marketing Director for Marietta Community Foundation, reflected, “The energy in that building last Friday was truly unforgettable. Watching the girls break out of their shells, guided by compassionate mentors and inspiring leaders, and witnessing their transformation throughout the day was nothing short of incredible.”
Our heartfelt appreciation goes to:
The dedicated mentors: Aleece Dye, Ashleigh Pennock, Brandee Norris, Cathy Harper, Courtney Wentz, Daneka Hedges, Danielle Bruni, Debora Lazorik, Emily Martin, Janet Crum, Jill Kirtland, Kaitlin Streator, Kari Cross, Kate Evans, Ricci Bailey, Sally Evans, Sarah Schmidt, Sophie Evans, Stephanie Starcher, and Susan Barengo.
Insightful session leaders: Britton Allen; Shannon Tschopp from the McDonough Center for Leadership and Business; Maribeth Saleem-Tanner from High Rocks; Rachel Burnham from Rockstar Wellness; Connie Huntsman and the ladies from the O’Neill Center; and Kristi Leonard-Webber and Holly Hamrick from Building Bridges to Careers.
The dynamic emcee: Jill Hall.
The welcoming venue: Washington State College of Ohio
The InfluencHer Leadership Summit is a spark lighting a new era where young girls recognize their power to lead, innovate, and create meaningful change in their schools, communities, and beyond. When they step into their strength, the possibilities are limitless.
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
Marietta Community Foundation is committed to strengthening Washington County, believing that a united community holds unlimited potential. With over $34 million in grants and scholarships and more than $60 million in assets across nearly 400 funds, the Foundation empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations across Washington County to drive transformative, lasting impact.
