"Some leaders are born women"  ~ Geraldine Ferraro

I had the pleasure of being invited to photograph the inaugural Executive Women of the Palm Beaches' Leadership Institute. This fantastic day-long program featured a variety of opportunities for women to learn and grow as leaders. 

They started the day with breakfast and a great speaker, Sharon Hadary, who is the Principal of Sharon Hadary & Co. Founding and former Executive Director, Center for Women’s Business Research, Adjunct Professor, Doctor of Management Program, University of Maryland University College Presenting research on Creating a Bold and Integrated Leadership Model. Following Sharon's speech, a panel of great business leaders shared their thoughts on women in business. Panelists included: Kelly Smallridge, Business Development Board of Palm Beach County, Inc.; Beth Kigel, Northern Palm Beach County Chamber of Commerce; Earnie Ellison Jr., PGA of America; Melissa Mickle, PNC Financial Services Group; and Craig Grant, PNC.

After lunch, attendees could choose from one of three breakout sessions. In the breakout sessions they could learn some great leadership techniques from women who are leaders in their respective fields. Attendees got some time to network with each other as well. 

During lunch, attendees had the amazing opportunity to hear Ann Rhoades speak. She is the Founding Executive Vice President of People, JetBlue Airways; President, People Ink and Best-selling Author, Built on Values: Creating an Enviable Culture that Outperforms the Competition.

Following the luncheon, more breakout sessions were held and then a unique segment called "Living Libraries" gave attendees the chance to sit in small groups with an expert in a field (over 25 to choose from) and ask in-depth questions. 

It was an amazing day and was very well organized for a first time event. The event was sponsored by PNC and was organized by Executive Women of the Palm Beaches. It will hopefully be an annual event held in October of each year. 

To learn more about Executive Women of the Palm Beaches and the wonderful programs they offer, visit their website at: www. ewpb.org. Membership opportunities are available!