When you look at the women you most admire, what are the traits and capacities that you see?

Carrie Hahnel (CH): When I look at the women I most admire, I see clear values and an unapologetic confidence in their beliefs, decisions, and selves. They pair bold vision with disciplined action, showing up and doing the hard work. They are also empathetic and kind, and they lift up other people around them, including other women.

Heather Little (HL): I am especially drawn to women who are funny, honest, and demonstrate integrity. The women I admire most are willing to be direct about the hard things and are willing to do the hard work, even when it might be unpopular. They don't focus on being liked or avoiding discomfort, and that allows them to be honest in a way that feels real. 

Women I admire most also take responsibility for their actions, both when they get things right and when they make mistakes. They accept recognition for their accomplishments without being dismissive, and they reflect upon and address the consequences of their words and actions without becoming defensive. 

I also admire women who can do all that they do and maintain a great sense of humor. They understand the importance of laughter or a good joke, and they are not afraid to use it. 

Jennifer Williams (JW): I continue to be amazed by women’s capacity to manage many demanding roles.  The women I admire have the emotional intelligence to have a career, show compassion and empathy for others, and support the emotions of those we love and care for.  They also admit when things are hard and ask for help. 

The most successful women I know are able to acknowledge the truth, seek help when they need it, and continue moving forward.  These women cultivate close friendships and surround themselves with a support system of loyal friends who listen and provide a safe place to land.

The women I admire most come from all walks of life and have their own sets of challenges, yet all of them have a few amazing women in their lives that provide unwavering support. With that kind of a foundation in place, the women I admire can and do manage a full plate.

It’s common for older generations to dismiss the perspectives and experiences of younger people. What are some traits and perspectives you see in younger women that inspire you?

CH: Younger women inspire me with their self-assuredness, the way they embrace their bodies and voice bold opinions. They are guided by a strong ethical compass, have the courage to speak up for what’s right, and work passionately to make our country and planet better.

HL: I see a fierceness in our young women that I find incredibly admirable. Their ability to recognize and respond to injustice is such an important quality right now, especially when we continue to see inequities persist throughout our society. They are taking up the torch of activism and speaking up loudly, for themselves and for their communities.

They are paying attention to what is happening around them in a way that I did not when I was younger. They ask important questions, they challenge the status quo, and they do not exhibit helplessness. Our young women are watching, and learning, and leading. I have every belief that they will not be satisfied with the world they are inheriting from us, and they will push to make it better. 

JW: I feel blessed to bear witness to generations of women behind me that have a strong commitment to social justice, a deep concern for our environment, and an acknowledgment of the impact our environment has on marginalized populations.  Younger women are part of a fast digital world that can seem overwhelming at times and presents its own set of challenges, yet I see my daughter and her circle of friends ask questions, respectfully challenge authority, and remain fearless in their ability to take this information in and do something good with it.  I could not be more hopeful for a better world because of the young women behind me and their unwavering desire to do good work and make a difference.

What’s the one piece of advice you would give to young women?

CH: My advice to young women: embrace your authentic self. There’s no single right path — follow what feels true to you, have confidence in your intuition and decisions, and only invest time in relationships that help strengthen your emotional well-being.

HL: To quote America Ferrara’s monologue in Barbie, "I’m just so tired of watching myself and every single other woman tie herself into knots so that people will like us.” So my advice to young women would be lift yourself up first and then lift up the other women in your life, and do not let anyone define your capacity or put their own fears/limitations/expectations on you. Women championing and supporting other women, that is how positive change will happen. 

JW: Take the high road! I’m always surprised how often I run into somebody that I knew 10, 20, or 30 years ago.  You never know how people that you once knew may come into your life again.   Prior relationships may benefit you down the road and it’s always better to leave a situation on good terms. 

This does not mean you don’t speak out when it’s important to do so, but how you do it will  leave an impression with people.  Professional diplomacy avoids drama, allows everyone to focus on solutions, and steers clear of emotional reactions. The character that people see will be what they remember about you, and that you handled a situation with integrity.

Learn more about our Board of Education members on our Board Member Profiles page.