A tight labor market and the Me Too movement are factors that have prompted changes for this year’s Women in Leadership luncheon.
In each of the past four years, the highlight of the event has been presentation of awards to four local businesswomen. But such honors will not be presented during the May 11 event, said Cindy Frey, president of the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce.
Instead, the chamber-sponsored luncheon — which begins at 11:30 a.m. at The Commons in downtown Columbus — will feature a panel discussion regarding workplace culture intended to promote environments in which all people can be successful, Frey said.
Topics are expected to include talent attraction, talent development, benefits and organizational leadership, according to the chamber.
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“This is not an event just for women,” Frey said. “It’s for people who want their businesses to be better and their employees to succeed.”
Me Too, the national movement against sexual harassment and assault, was successful last year in renewing efforts to ensure that all female employees are respected, supported and empowered, the chamber president said.
But extremely low unemployment in Bartholomew County has broadened those same concerns to both male and female employees in all workplace sectors, Frey said.
“It’s a perfect storm,” she said. “Conversations among chamber members are largely centered on how to retain their workers, ensure they feel fulfilled, and help them contribute to the best of their abilities.”
This is not the first time the annual event has experienced format changes. In 2014, the Women in Leadership luncheon was launched to replace the day-long Women’s Professional Development Conference.
The transformation from an awards presentation to a panel discussion has been well-received by chamber members, with more than 200 reservations already, Frey said.
Following the luncheon, the chamber will make available an online resource directory accessible to its members that will include articles, podcasts and examples from existing businesses, Frey said.
“We don’t want this to be a one-time event, and then it’s gone,” the chamber president said.
Columbus Regional Health is the presenting sponsor of the Women in Leadership luncheon. Silver sponsors include Toyota Industrial Equipment and Fifth Third Bank.
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What: Women in Leadership: A Conversation
When: 11:30 a.m. May 11
Where: The Commons, 333 Washington St.
Cost: $45
Who: Presented by the Columbus Area Chamber of Commerce. Sponsors include Columbus Regional Health, Toyota Industrial Equipment and Fifth Third Bank.
Information/Registration: 812-379-4457 or online at columbusareachamber.com.
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Here are summaries of the four local panelists who will participate in the May 11 Women in Leadership luncheon.
Amy M. Adams, Vice President, Strategic Initiatives for Cummins Inc.
On March 8, Bartholomew County’s largest employer announced a global initiative called “Cummins Powers Women” to advance the corporation’s long-term commitment to the empowerment of women and girls. As part of this program, Cummins has partnered with a network of trusted nonprofits to make a larger, more sustainable and long-lasting impact in the communities in which it operates.
Jim Bickel, President and CEO, Columbus Regional Health
CRH has created a “Career For Life” program in response to a shortage of professional health care workers. The career pathway program essentially assists employees who enter the hospital’s workforce at low-level positions and provides them with a step-by-step pathway, as well as financial assistance, toward higher-skilled and higher-paying health care positions.
Dr. Sandra Miles, Dean of Students, IUPUC
With a 60 percent female student population, IUPUC operates an Office for Women that strives to enhance the leadership potential in all women, as well as provide resources and education about gender equity. But the Columbus campus has also initiated other efforts to assist both men and women who come from diverse racial and cultural backgrounds.
Dr. Mandy Wyant, Owner, Family Chiropractic and Wellness
With 12 employees, Family Chiropractic is an example of how a small company can be responsive to the needs of its workers. The office has flexible scheduling intended to balance the needs and schedule of both employer and employee. As a way of serving their community, Family Chiropractic also adopts different non-profits annually – including the Foundation For Youth this year. Efforts have included both outreach visits and financial contributions.
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