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SHE LEADS 2024
MARK YOUR CALENDARS! On the evening of Thursday, November 21 from 6:00PM - 9:30PM we will be holding once again our special event She Leads: The Difference Makers.
She Leads: The Difference Makers event is an inspiring evening dedicated to connecting and learning from a new generation of influential women in leadership roles. This event highlights the remarkable contributions of women who thrive in male-dominated industries and diverse leadership environments, driving positive, lasting change. Attendees will engage with women who demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and the power to mobilize others—qualities that enable them to do more with less and make a meaningful impact. Join us to celebrate these leaders who exemplify determination, strategic thinking, and the courage to pursue transformative opportunities.
In collaboration with Strive Young Professionals, She Leads presents an inspiring platform to hear powerful stories, share your own experiences, and engage in thought-provoking discussions. The event features two dynamic panels, networking opportunities during the mix-and-mingle, and showcases women-led and diversity-driven businesses and organizations at our "She Leads" vendor exhibition.
Featuring two panel discussions:
· BEING ATHENA
· ACCELERATING ACTION FOR WOMEN'S EQUALITY
Panellists for each discussion will be revealed soon!
Food, Dessert Table, and Cash Bar
🗓 Date: Thursday, November 21st, 2024
⏰ Time: 6:00pm to 9:30pm
📍 Where: The Machine Shop, 83 Huron St, Sault Ste. Marie, ON P6A 5P4
Tickets:- One Ticket: $49.99+hst
- Two Tickets: $89.99+hst
- Four Tickets: $169.99+hst
- Six Tickets: $249.99+hst
Door Prizes
Being ATHENA Leadership Training (Valued at $750)
Women in Business Breakfast Tickets (Valued at $100)
OLG Gift Basket (Valued at $150)
Kevanna Fine Photography Gift Certificate for Business Portraits (Valued at $125)
Hear from an ATHENA leader! opening remarks:Panel One – Being ATHENA
Hear from four of our graduates of the second running Being ATHENA: Leadership Training. The Being ATHENA Leadership training program brought together 26 women in search of bringing about profound transformations into the lives through the acquisition of knowledge, self-reflection, and the establishment of strong relationships. These remarkable women have experienced significant growth in their self-understanding and acknowledgment, as well begun the journey to reaching unprecedented levels of achievement and success. They have expressed a newfound confidence in advocating for themselves, and attained a self-confidence that will help them in successful negotiations for salary increases, promotions, and increased responsibilities creating new possibilities in their personal lives. In today's extraordinary times of post pandemic, recession, rising costs, conflicts and a global movement to address racial and economic justice, the ATHENA Leadership Model (ALM) offers the skills and attributes for building the successful leaders we need now and for the future. This session will be moderated by Past President of the Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce, Karen Bird a certified trainer of the Being ATHENA program.
Moderator:- Karen Bird, Certified Becoming ATHENA Trainer, CCO, Indigenous Impact Investment Circle (3iC)
- Franca Liguori, Ontario Lottery & Gaming Corporation (OLG)
- Beverley Barber, The Water Tower Inn
- Tiffaney Godin, Batchewana First Nation
- Carmela Coccimiglio, Sault Area Hospital
As we approach International Women’s Day 2025 and the theme #AccelerateAction, when women aren't present, we must ask: "If not, why not?" This panel brings together women leaders who are driving tangible progress toward gender equality. This begins by teaching and coaching young people that successful entrepreneurs and leaders are not classified or limited by gender. These trailblazing women will share their personal experiences of taking decisive action in their leadership roles, breaking barriers, and creating inclusive spaces for future generations of women. The conversation will delve into strategies and initiatives they’ve championed, highlighting how effective leadership can accelerate change across industries. From tackling systemic inequalities to fostering mentorship and advocacy, this discussion will empower attendees to envision and contribute to a future where women's equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
Moderator:- Erica Hogan (Hogan's Homestead)- Chief Financial Officer
- Sherri Smith - Vice President, Academic, Innovation, and Student Services at Sault College
- Mary Wabano-McKay - President and Chief Academic Officer at Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig
- Kaitlyn Good - East Algoma OPP
- Sheila Purvis - Owner of Purvis Marine Ltd.
Traci CostaTraci Costa is a prominent figure in the field of women's leadership development. Her unwavering commitment to cultivating leaders has earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious ATHENA Leadership Award in 2018. Traci's commitment to empowering women led her to serve on the ATHENA International Board of Directors until she was named the President and CEO in 2021.
Before her tenure with ATHENA International, Traci played an instrumental role as the founding director of the Olivet College Women's Leadership Institute. In less than three years, she spearheaded the establishment of numerous women's leadership programs that positively impacted the lives of over 1,500 girls and women.
Beyond her leadership in the realm of women's empowerment, Traci boasts an extensive background in fundraising. She served as the North Central Regional Director for the Arizona Community Foundation (ACF) and earned recognition for her contributions to the field. Her achievements included being elected to the Northern Arizona Association of Fundraising Professionals Board and being named the 2009 Northern Arizona New Fundraising Professional of the Year.
Traci's journey towards leadership began on the volleyball court as a former NCAA Division 1 volleyball coach and athlete. Hailing from California, she attended California State University, Fresno on a full athletic volleyball scholarship. Traci's athletic prowess earned her two-time team MVP honors, three-time scholar-athlete distinctions, a spot on the All-Big West Conference team, and recognition as the FSU Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year. She continued her journey as the founding head volleyball coach at Belmont University in Nashville, TN, securing a conference championship title and earning the title of TCAC Conference Coach of the Year.
Traci's diverse range of experiences fuels her fervent dedication to empowering leaders and upholding ATHENA's vision to inspire all leaders to play their part in advancing gender-balanced leadership worldwide. She possesses a profound passion for supporting and inspiring others as they tap into their unique and authentic leadership strengths. Traci is resolutely committed to instilling ATHENA's culture of empathy, compassion, and inclusivity in workplaces and rewriting the leadership narrative.
In March of 2023, Traci embarked on The ATHENA Enlightenment Tour, a global journey aimed at expanding awareness for ATHENA, strengthening community relationships, and amplifying the local ATHENA leaders who are effecting transformative change, championing women and girls within their communities.
WATCH TRACI'S MESSAGE TO SHE LEADS ATTENDEES FROM 2023:
Hear from the 2023 ATHENA Award Recipient! opening remarks:
Jasmyn RowleyJasmyn Rowley has been working in the realm of communication, media and public relations for almost 20 years.
Her various roles in the broadcast industry include work as a news anchor, reporter, host, producer and news writer for television, internet and radio.
In addition to her background in media, Jasmyn has built a vast portfolio in the public relations realm. She has completed a variety of results-driven marketing and publicity campaigns for clients including top actors, musicians, authors, television and film productions, media companies and high-profile red carpet events.
Jasmyn currently combines her passion for engaging the community, both in front of and behind the camera, in her role as the Director of Marketing and Communications for Village Media.
Meet our SHE LEADS panelists:
Franca LiguoriFranca Liguori is a proud native Sault Ste. Marie marketer working at OLG, generating profits for the province of Ontario. She has worked on a variety of Lottery brands and portfolios for over 24+ years and is currently the Senior Product Manager for National Draw Games. She passionately manages the legacy LOTTO 6/49 product and its most recent GOLD BALL launch. Franca is also a part time instructor for Sault College for the School of Business. In her spare time, Franca can be found teaching at the Ho Shin Sool Martial Arts Club, here in Sault Ste. Marie, that her and her husband manage.
Beverley BarberGrowing up in a family business, Beverley Barber absorbed the acumen, resourcefulness and tenacity that would serve her in her future career. Despite her early beginnings, she never anticipated a career in hospitality. A post-graduation job as a Guest Services Representative at the local Travelodge made Beverley realize that hospitality is her superpower. She was quickly promoted to Assistant General Manager and now leads one of the most iconic hotels in Sault Ste. Marie, The Water Tower Inn, as the General Manager.
Beverley believes that to achieve an exceptional experience for her guests, she needs to focus on an exceptional work environment for her staff. She leads by building a diverse and inclusive team, and offers her mentorship readily to develop the next generation of hospitality leaders. Beverley's passion for hospitality and tourism development led her to join the Tourism Sault Ste. Marie board of directors in 2020, which she has chaired for the past three years.
Beverley has her CHIA (Certificate in Hotel Industry Analytics) and CRDE (Certified Rooms Division Executive) designations. She is also an active member of the Diocese of Algoma's Administration and Finance Committee and a volunteer youth group leader
Tiffaney GodinTiffaney Godin recently returned to Sault Ste. Marie with her family to pursue a new career path with her reserve of Batchewana First Nation. She currently serves as the Secondary School Liaison, supporting Batchewana’s youth across the secondary education sector, both on and off reserve. In her spare time, she loves being outdoors with her children, enjoying activities like hunting, fishing, and camping, while also supporting their busy sports schedules. Tiffaney is passionate about advocating for First Nation youth, helping them find their voice as they navigate their educational journeys. Though still exploring her future aspirations, she finds fulfillment in her role as an advocate and mentor.
Carmela CoccimiglioCarmela Coccimiglio is first-generation Canadian and the proud daughter of Italian immigrants and was the first in her family to complete a post-secondary education. She has a PhD in English from the University of Ottawa and her dissertation was supported by a scholarship from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council. She has worked in higher education for almost twenty years and has highly advanced research, writing, and organizational skills.
Carmela has taught courses in literature and film at Algoma University, Lakehead University, and the University of Ottawa. She currently teaches in the Digital Film program at Sault College, where she designed and launched a feature-length screenwriting course.
Currently, Carmela is the Health Information Coordinator at Sault Area Hospital and is working with the Research Office to develop strategic and operational plans to support the expansion of research at the institution and with key partners.
Carmela has a natural ability to work effectively with multilingual people, and with individuals of various needs, abilities, and skill levels. She is supervising an international medical graduate as part of the Health Care Leadership program at Sault College. She is an advocate for truth and reconciliation, and is appreciative to work, live, and play in Algoma as a guest in Robinson Huron Treaty Territory of 1850.
She is excited to be on the panel at the Difference Makers event and looks forward to a stimulating discussion!Sherri has been an instrumental part of the Sault College team for 17 years, consistently demonstrating strong leadership, a proven track record for driving academic growth, and a deep commitment to student-centered education.
Sherri Smith
Prior to serving as Vice President, Academics, Innovation, and Student Success, Sherri led Sault College’s School of Natural Environment, School of Business and Culinary programming for more than eight years as the Chair. During this time, she played a crucial role in the expansion and development of new academic programing to reflect the changing world and industry needs.
Sherri consistently embodies transformative leadership principles - seeking innovative solutions and fostering a culture of creativity and the embracement of emerging trends.
Sherri is deeply committed to inclusivity and celebrates the richness of human diversity. She is dedicated to fostering an environment that prioritizes equity, diversity, and inclusion in all aspects of education.
A lifelong learner, Sherri holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in history from Baylor University, Waco, Texas.
An active community volunteer, Sherri is a board member of the Board of Governors at Sault Area Hospital and previously chaired the Board of Directors for the Thrive Children’s Development Centre.
Mary Wabano-McKayMary Wabano-McKay is O'Mushkego Anishinaabe and a member of Attawapiskat First Nation, she hails from the Northern Ontario community of Moosonee. Her work experience spans across education, health and social policy. With over 25 years of experience in academic leadership and a strong focus in Indigenous education.
Mary is devoted to decolonizing spaces and advancing Reconciliation through Anishinaabe control over Anishinaabe education, working to develop strong relationships between Shingwauk Kinoomaage Gamig, the First Nations it serves and various stakeholders to continue the journey of healing. Her lived experience as an Indigenous woman and first-generation Residential School survivor guides her both personally and professionally.
Kaitlyn GoodKaitlyn Good is a dedicated mother of two and a highly respected Provincial Constable with the Ontario Provincial Police. Since moving from Southern Ontario to the Algoma District in 2012, Kaitlyn has embraced a wide array of leadership roles within the OPP, including Acting Detective Constable, Acting Sergeant, Recruitment Ambassador, Peer Supporter, and Coach Officer. Currently, she serves as the Northeast Region Recruiter, where she plays a vital role in attracting and guiding new talent into law enforcement.
Kaitlyn is passionate about empowering others and fostering diversity within the force. She is a mentor to women interested in policing, actively promoting women in law enforcement, and recently served as a panelist for the OPP Women’s Bound event.
Her commitment to supporting others extends beyond her professional life; she’s an active community member and serves as a trainer for the U13 Soo Junior Greyhounds Girls Hockey Team, where her enthusiasm for mentorship shines at the rink. Known for her energy and dedication, Kaitlyn brings the same commitment to her personal pursuits as she does to her role with the OPP, continually setting an example of leadership and community engagement.
Sheila PurvisSheila Purvis is an entrepreneur and owner of Purvis Marine Limited, Sault Multimodal Terminal Inc., BeaverTails, and Sault Lock Tours Inc. A Lake Superior State University graduate in Engineering and Engineering Management, Sheila brings technical expertise and business acumen to her diverse portfolio. She also advises on transportation, tourism, and business development through various committee roles.
Meet our SHE LEADS moderators:
Karen BirdKaren Bird is an Ojibwe woman from Batchewana First Nation, living in Sault Ste Marie (SSM), Ontario. She has 26 years of financial industry experience including commercial lending, business advisory services, housing property management, renewable energy project management, business plan writing, start-up company coaching, wealth management and corporate cultural training. Karen was the recipient of the 2015 Influential Women of Northern Ontario’s Aboriginal Leadership Award and in 2018 was the first Indigenous recipient of the ATHENA Leadership Award. Karen is the proud mother of four, step-mother to three, values her language and carries many cultural teachings. Karen currently sits on the Board for Sault College and Taking IT Global. She was first Indigenous President of the SSM Chamber of Commerce. Karen is also the first Indigenous certified facilitator in Canada for ATHENA International. Karen is a strong advocate for women in business, Indigenous inclusion and sexual assault survivors through her non-profit Nakehndan – Knowing Your Truth, numerous seminars, panels, guest speaking and moderating engagements.
Erica Hogan
Erica Hogan is a dynamic leader and advocate based in the Toronto area, where she was born and raised. As the Chief Financial Officer of Hogan's Homestead and a franchise owner of Phatboy Fireworks, Erica blends her business acumen with a passion for entrepreneurship. In 2024, she gained recognition as an Amazon Best-Selling Author with her poignant family memoir, Unseen Rainbows, which sheds light on the complexities of loss and resilience.A trained pastry chef and mother of four, Erica skillfully balances her professional life with her commitment to her family. As a live liver donor, she is deeply dedicated to raising awareness for pregnancy and infancy loss, founding the Piper Project to support families navigating these difficult experiences.
In a male-dominated industry, Erica stands out not only as a business leader but also as a trailblazer, having created an award-winning maple syrup product alongside her husband. Their commitment to quality and community reflects their values and dedication to making a positive impact. Through her various roles, Erica inspires others with her tenacity, compassion, and unwavering support for those in need.SHE LEADS 2024Date and Time
Thursday Nov 21, 2024
6:00 PM - 9:30 PM ESTLocation
The Machine Shop [83 Huron St, Sault Ste. Marie, ON, P6A 5P6]
Fees/Admission
One Ticket: $49.99+hst
Two Tickets: $89.99+hst
Four Tickets: $169.99+hst
Six Tickets: $249.99+hst