About 50 women walk across a stage inside the Georgia Aquarium.
Each one is handed their certificate marking the end of the She LEADS program hosted by the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena.
The Georgia woman’s leadership empowerment program, which is celebrating the completion of its third cohort, brings in early-career women from typically male-dominated industries in Atlanta for mentorship and professional development.
“Women continue to be under-represented in the boardroom,”
Dr. Morgan Jones, She LEADS vice president of learning innovation, talent & belonging,
Taylor Bohannon Shea is one of the graduates.
“I am a senior manager of marketing analytics at the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena. And in the future, hopefully, I get to lead that department after I showcase some of the leadership skills that I’ve developed throughout this program,” said Bohannon Shea.
Many of the attendees shared personal letters they had written to themselves and spoke about how much their mentor relationships had impacted their lives.
At times, the whole room shifted from gleeful laughter to tear-jerking reflections on personal growth.
“I think this program has definitely pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and to go after things that I’m interested in and kind of not let my fear hold me back.”
Janna Pruiett, SHE Leads mentor
Janna Pruiett, a mentee last year who has returned as a mentor, says women trying to climb the executive ladder have it especially tough.
“Sometimes it’s discouraging, but then being a part of this program and having organizations that support women is very encouraging and uplifting,” said Pruiett.
The six-month program also helps mentees learn to take care of their mental health and pick up new skills outside their comfort zones, such as golf. During the six-month program, participants attended a financial wellness workshop, received one-on-one mentoring and even went to a Hawks game.
Pruiett says everything combined helped her land a promotion.
“I think this program has definitely pushed me to step outside my comfort zone and to go after things that I’m interested in and kind of not let my fear hold me back,” she notes.
As President Donald Trump’s administration continues to dismantle initiatives promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion, She LEADS Vice President of Learning Innovation, Talent & Belonging, Dr. Morgan Jones, says the program will continue to build inclusive spaces.
“Women continue to be under-represented in the boardroom,” Jones said. “We know that the data shows that. And so this program is designed to create a pipeline so that way we can continue to put more women in leadership roles so they can continue to make a difference and transform not only their organization, but the community at large.”
She adds that She LEADS is excited to be heading into its fourth year with this upcoming cohort.
“We understand that it is our responsibility to continue to pour into our community and make sure that every single person has the access and the resources they need to be successful,” said Jones.
