Getting comfortable, connected and confident is what our second Women’s Economic Development Network Leadership Forum was all about. Presenters and participants fostered an atmosphere filled with energy that helped to SPARK excitement about networking and future opportunities.
The conference began with a topic everyone stresses over, social media. 
Colleen Walton with Brand Acceleration presented the do’s, don’ts, and ‘Who GAS?’ of navigating this tricky subject. Zach Ward with DSI Comedy Theater had the audience in stitches practicing the art of saying “YES, and” instead of no. There are times when we have to say no but the more we can say “YES, and” helps to foster positive interactions in brainstorming sessions. 
Each team member feels appreciated and their ideas accepted and important. Over lunch, Ted Abernathy with Economic Leadership talked about the leadership it takes to get things done in the fast paced, changing world of economic development. The day ended with life coach Sherry Essig providing us with three keys to making a bold career move. It takes practice, action, and connection to get going in the right direction.
We launched SPARK! sessions at WEDN this year. These are five minute rapid fire presentations on best practices, case studies, and challenges with the goal of sparking conversations. Thanks to SPARK! presenters: Traci Blido, Leigh Howe, Leslie Scott, Nancy Johnston, Tessa Failor, Felicia Maloney, Kara Brown, LeeAnn Nixon, and Joanna Helms.
After an exciting conference, the participants let us know that the topics are challenging them in all areas of development. Based on survey feedback, the group wants to continue this networking and growth opportunity.
Thanks to Sanford Holshouser Law Firm, each participant received a copy of How Remarkable Women Lead by Joanna Barsh and Susie Cranston. 
There are women across the globe that have chosen leadership as their passion, and they are making a difference. The book reveals what makes them great leaders and how they have sustained that leadership in changing environments. We challenged everyone to take steps to become a leader in their community.
A special thanks to WEDN sponsors: SC Power Team, ECS, Applied Marketing, and Brand Acceleration. Without their support we could not host this event.
Our tag line is LEARN and LEAD. We learned a lot last week…..now LEAD!
