FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, December 10, 2024
(EON: Enhanced Online News)– Gain: PICTURES INCLUDED
The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools Holds 8th Annual LEAD Like A Girl Summit
Fort Myers, FL (December 10, 2024) – The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools recently held its inspiring annual LEAD Like A Girl event, an empowering gathering designed to motivate and equip young girls with the necessary tools for success through leadership, education, advocacy and development opportunities. The event, which took place at Florida SouthWestern State College, welcomed local middle and high school girls to a day of mentorship, dynamic workshops, and powerful keynote addresses from successful female leaders across various industries.
LEAD Like A Girl is a signature program of the Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, aimed at encouraging young women to embrace their leadership potential and pursue their passions. This year’s event saw incredible growth, with 29 different schools and 108 students in attendance. It featured a diverse panel of influential women who shared their personal stories of success and provided invaluable insights into overcoming obstacles, developing confidence, and leading with purpose.
Panelists included Dr. Malissa J. Wood, M.D., FACC, VP Chief Physician Executive at Lee Health Heart Institute; Dr. Jennifer Cupid-McCoy, Ed.D., Chief Strategy Officer at The School District of Lee County; Gwyentta Gittens, a former educator and school board member at The School District of Lee County; and Keesha Allen-Thomas, D.C.F. Director / Performing Arts Director at Quality Life Center. These inspiring women shared their journeys, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, determination, and self-belief.
“The LEAD Like A Girl summit was an incredible event that empowered young girls like me,” said a student attendee. “Hearing from speakers who were once in our position was incredibly inspiring. I am looking forward to taking this advice and using it as life skills in the future. I recommend this program for all young women.”
The growing participation in the LEAD Like A Girl conference underscores its importance as a key event in empowering young women, inspiring them to embrace their potential and set ambitious goals for their future. Additionally, one student from the event will be chosen to receive a $1,000 scholarship in recognition of their commitment to fostering a positive school environment.
“We have so many incredible female role models in our community,” said Marshall T. Bower, President & CEO of The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools. “Their willingness to share and engage with our students allows them to see and recognize their own potential.”
About The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools
The Foundation for Lee County Public Schools, Inc. is a private 501(C)3 organization established in 1986. Its mission is to enhance and enrich the quality of public education in Lee County for students and educators through programs, resources, and experiences made possible through corporate, individual, and educational partnerships. Find us online at www.leeschoolfoundation.org, on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, and X.
###
Pictured 12/6/2024
Media Contact:
Marshall T. Bower, Esq.
President and CEO
Tel. (239) 337-0433