An executive’s ability to gather a talented team to achieve goals is an important aspect of leadership, three panelists agreed at the Capital Area United Way and BASF’s Celebrate the Power of Women event this morning at L’Auberge Hotel & Casino.
Terrie Sterling, executive vice president of strategic initiatives with Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, believes leadership is getting the best out of a group of individuals.
“Lead individuals and inspire them in a way that’s inspirational and really calls individuals to do things they sometimes didn’t know they had the potential to do,” Sterling says.
Padma Vatsavai, founder and CEO of Vinformatix, says when it comes to leadership, she would tell her younger self that failure is not an option, focus on goals and to work to make a difference.
“As men have always done, (women) have to see ourselves in leadership positions and have numerous examples to follow,” Vatsavai says. “I think it is extremely important for us to highlight the work of women leaders in the community and to share their journey and experiences with the next generation of leading women.”
The Capital Area United Way also honored three community women for their leadership. The Legacy of Service Award was given to Lois Smyth, donor services program office with the Baton Rouge Area Foundation. Melissa Juneau, CEO of the Emerge Center, was given the Leadership Excellence Award and Jeanette Dansby, with St. Vincent de Paul, was given the Leadership of Inspiration Award.
