Inspired by the national “Young Women Lead” program, Trigg County Assistant Superintendent Karen Solise has opened up her own program for Lady Wildcats — in hopes of inspiring some students to find the next step in personal and professional development.
During Thursday’s Board of Education session, Solise detailed the group’s inaugural October 25 meeting called “Lead Like A Girl,” which consisted of nine girls who spent most of the day working through self-reflection, journaling, watching short videos on successful women in a wide variety of careers, and more.
Solise noted that she wasn’t drawing from any specific guidelines or resource material, but instead crafted an afternoon that would befit a small-group setting.
This included guest speaking appearances from Trigg County Magistrate and Cadiz Rotary President Alana Baker-Dunn, as well as Hopkins County Circuit Court Clerk Tanya Bowman — both of which have full understanding of finding leadership success as women.
Solise added that Edge Media President & CEO Beth Mann has accepted an invitation to speak at a later convening of the group, as this is something Solise would like to see continue. Perhaps a fall, winter and spring meeting, in order to chart progress on the hopes and dreams of these students.
The selection process was relatively simple. Solise made contact with TCHS Guidance Counselor Janay Futrell, in hopes of reaching 15-to-30 young ladies who had “untapped potential.”
Each of the students received their own personal journal, some bookmarks, took photos in a balloon arch, and then evaluated the afternoon to give Solise some feedback.
Board member Theresa Allen said Solise’s inspiration has been discussed before in the community, and that perhaps it could bring about even more action.
James Mangels, Trigg County director of personnel and student services, said some preliminary efforts are already underway for a potential boys program in the school.
