When I attended my first Women’s Leadership Connection Conference in 2019, I had just moved to the Rogue Valley and didn’t know a soul. The idea of a “Women’s Leadership Conference” intrigued me, so I signed up. I took a seat near the front of the ballroom, trying to look confident while my nerves buzzed.

That day’s afternoon keynote speaker was Dr. Deborah Cohen—someone who had inspired me during my breast cancer journey in 2014 with her viral pre-surgery dance video. Her courage moved me so deeply that I asked friends and family to send me their own “dance party” videos before my first surgery to Pat Benatar’s All Fired Up. They went all out—singing into wooden spoons, dancing in kitchens, and even rallying in the hospital parking lot. Those videos gave me laughter and courage when I needed them most.

I had hoped to meet Dr. Cohen, even just to say thank you. At lunch, many people at my table left…and in walked Dr. Cohen with her two young children. She sat beside me, asked me to watch them while she spoke, and later we shared a heartfelt conversation. We’ve kept in touch ever since. That is the magic—and synchronicity—of Women’s Leadership Connection.

From Volunteer to President

Since that first conference, I’ve served on the Speaker and Logistics Committees, joined the Board in 2023, and now have the honor of stepping into the role of President. Libby Gill’s outstanding leadership has set a high bar, and I’m grateful she will continue to serve on the Board alongside this incredible team:

Libby Gill, Katie Baldassar, Michele Mitzel, Andrea Partsafas, Emmory Bergene, Sandra Colley, Erika Halliday, and Theresa Morris.

At our recent annual planning meeting, we had a day full of thoughtful, inspiring conversations. This year, we will:

• Expand networking and career-growth programs
• Continue our mentorship and speaker training programs (launching in September)
• Make our annual conference more interactive and impactful

We Need You

WLC is powered entirely by volunteers—and we’d love for you to be part of our work. You can:

• Join a committee
• Become a sponsor (maybe your business would like to sponsor us?)
• Share expertise in areas like social media, event promotion, or programming

Your involvement—big or small—helps us create programs that truly serve our members. Please reach out to me directly if you’d like to get involved.

[Sign Up Here to Join Us!]

Together, let’s make this a year of connection, growth, and inspiration. Let’s continue the magic and synchronicity of WLC!

Tammy Ryan

President, Women’s Leadership Connection