In recognition of National Women Support Women's Day, George Washington University's Center for Excellence in Public Leadership and CommPRO are showcasing the voices and wisdom of trailblazing women who have left an indelible mark on the business landscape. Insights from female business thought leaders contribute a unique perspective on the current state of women's leadership in the business world and in the workforce.

In the following series, we present the thoughtful responses of these influential women, offering a glimpse into their experiences, challenges, and aspirations for the future of women in leadership. As we delve into their insights, we aim to uncover actionable strategies and illuminate the path forward for businesses striving to cultivate an inclusive and empowering environment for women. You can download the full report, “Nurturing Women's Leadership: Insights From Distinguished Thought Leaders,” here.

"Supporting and advancing women in leadership has both systemic and cultural facets." - Valerie Simon

Valerie Simon is Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for Lumeris, a population health services and analytics company working with health systems across the country.

COMMPRO: In your experience, what leadership development and management training opportunities have been effective in retaining female talent and helping women move up into leadership roles?

In my experience, the most impactful leadership development and management training initiatives transcend mere skill-building; they offer a gateway to a network of mentors, sponsors, allies, and peers and ignite energy and passion for the road ahead. I have found that both employer sponsored programs and industry associations can both be effective. At Lumeris, I am energized by programs such as “iWil” (Inspiring Women in Leadership) , a network designed to help develop talent. Throughout my career I have also been able to learn from, and help support, women leaders through Chief and industry associations from Washington Women in PR to Women Business Leaders of the U.S. HealthCare Industry Foundation..

Additionally, recognizing that professional development needs differ is crucial; identifying gaps and tailored training, be it in communication or financial acumen, is essential. All too often I have heard women in communications share that they are “not a numbers person.” As you move into leadership roles, you need to be comfortable stepping outside of your area of expertise and making the most of opportunities to develop both hard and soft skills.

COMMPRO: What do you believe is still needed to further support and advance women in leadership positions?

Supporting and advancing women in leadership has both systemic and cultural facets. It has been more than 60 years since the Equal Pay Act was signed by President John F. Kennedy mandating equal pay for equal work and it is difficult to fathom the gender-based disparities in compensation and opportunities for advancement that continue to exist today. Policies ensuring pay equity, parental leave, and flexible work arrangements remain vital.

If we are to support and advance women, we must refuse to accept the status quo. When my daughter was five she ran into the kitchen sobbing. She pointed her finger angrily at her big brother and screamed, “He’s lying.” When I asked what he had said, she tearfully explained he said no girl had ever been President. She knew he was learning about the Presidents at school and MUST know the names of the girl Presidents. He MUST be lying. He looked at her apologetically, and helplessly said, “I’m sorry.” While perhaps misdirected, her outrage was justified. We must all use some of that outrage to ignite change. It is incumbent on all leaders to create intentional pathways for women to access networks and opportunities.

Women Leaders on the Rise

Women Leaders on the Rise is a 2-day inaugural program, specifically designed for first-time women managers and women who have the aptitude and interest in taking on management roles. The experience supports women in developing leadership and management skills to enable career success while addressing obstacles they may face early in their careers.

The program is presented by Leslie Grossman, Senior Fellow and Executive Coach at GW CEPL, and founder of the Women’s Leadership Exchange. She is the author of "LINK OUT: How to Turn Your Network into a Chain of Lasting Connections".

Executive Women's Leadership Program

Propel your career forward with this highly interactive 3-day program presented by The George Washington University Center for Excellence in Public Leadership. Designed for women leaders in the private and public sectors who aspire to positions of greater influence and impact or have been identified as high-potential in their organizations, this breakthrough program will provide new strategies and tactics for you to take the lead and succeed at higher levels.

Participants will have the opportunity to network and build community with guest speakers and participating women leaders throughout the three days. We offer the option to continue the learnings of the 3-day program with a monthly ‘virtual’ Mastermind Group accessed online for 6 months following completion of the EWLP program.

Members share insights, ideas and get support for newly learned best practices and address challenges in the workplace and their careers. Facilitated by executive coach Leslie Grossman, members can set goals, request accountability partners, and continue to move forward expanding their leadership abilities and goals.

Global Women's Leadership Program

While gender diversity is recognized as a hallmark of the most successful organizations, studies - including “Women Rising: The Unseen Barriers” reported in HBR* - reveal that gender bias continues to exist in most organizations. This program provides participants with transformational communication skills, executive presence, and powerful leadership strategies while transforming mindsets and behaviors that may hold women back from both contributing fully and moving up in the organization. In a global pandemic, women leaders have been recognized for their positive outcomes from COVID-19 more than most male-led countries. The program identifies the leadership skills shown by these women leaders and many others who have exceeded all expectations.

Women Leaders on the Rise

Women Leaders on the Rise is a 2-day inaugural program, specifically designed for first-time women managers and women who have the aptitude and interest in taking on management roles. The experience supports women in developing leadership and management skills to enable career success while addressing obstacles they may face early in their careers.

The program is presented by Leslie Grossman, Senior Fellow and Executive Coach at GW CEPL, and founder of the Women’s Leadership Exchange. She is the author of "LINK OUT: How to Turn Your Network into a Chain of Lasting Connections".

Executive Women's Leadership Program

Propel your career forward with this highly interactive 3-day program presented by The George Washington University Center for Excellence in Public Leadership. Designed for women leaders in the private and public sectors who aspire to positions of greater influence and impact or have been identified as high-potential in their organizations, this breakthrough program will provide new strategies and tactics for you to take the lead and succeed at higher levels.

Participants will have the opportunity to network and build community with guest speakers and participating women leaders throughout the three days. We offer the option to continue the learnings of the 3-day program with a monthly ‘virtual’ Mastermind Group accessed online for 6 months following completion of the EWLP program.

Members share insights, ideas and get support for newly learned best practices and address challenges in the workplace and their careers. Facilitated by executive coach Leslie Grossman, members can set goals, request accountability partners, and continue to move forward expanding their leadership abilities and goals.

Global Women's Leadership Program

While gender diversity is recognized as a hallmark of the most successful organizations, studies - including “Women Rising: The Unseen Barriers” reported in HBR* - reveal that gender bias continues to exist in most organizations. This program provides participants with transformational communication skills, executive presence, and powerful leadership strategies while transforming mindsets and behaviors that may hold women back from both contributing fully and moving up in the organization. In a global pandemic, women leaders have been recognized for their positive outcomes from COVID-19 more than most male-led countries. The program identifies the leadership skills shown by these women leaders and many others who have exceeded all expectations.