On Tuesday, Sept. 19, SCC president, Dr. Barbara Kavalier, chaired a blue ribbon panel discussion with women about their experiences in and analysis of the world of politics and beyond during “Shaping Policy: Women in Leadership Roles.” The event was part of the college's Democracy Days lineup.


Marie-Hélène Bernard, CEO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, was one of the four panelists who spoke at ‘Shaping Policy: Women in Leadership Roles' during SCC's democracy days.

“Shaping Policy: Women in Leadership Roles” panelists included Marie-Hélène Bernard, CEO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra; Adrian E. Bracy, CEO of the YWCA; Loria Eaton, president of Nextgen Information Systems; and Lesley S. Hoffarth, executive director of Forest Park Forever.

Questions asked by chair Kavalier, Ph.D., focused on mentors, how the panelists shape policy at their organizations, how to deal with stereotypes of women in leadership, their greatest career-decision yet and more. 

“Stereotypes are around us all the time,” said Lesley S. Hoffarth, executive director of Forest Park Forever. “The more women leaders there are, the more people will become used to women in power.” 

“The best decision I ever made was leaving my previous job,” said Adrian E. Bracy, CEO of the YWCA. “I wanted to do something more as far as giving back. I wanted to make a greater impact in the lives of women and girls. I believe I am living my purpose right now.”

Questions from the audience had a strong focus on Millennials in the workplace; how they can become leaders in their fields, advice from the panelists to them and also how these powerful women manage to balance both work and personal lives.   

“The workforce is changing so much, the opportunities for women are limitless,” said Loria Eaton, president of Nextgen Information Systems. 

“Don't hesitate to surround yourself with people who support you,” said Marie-Hélène Bernard, CEO of the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. “People love to be asked for advice.” 

The mission of Democracy Days is “to examine the history, health and functioning of democracy in America and abroad.” The multi-day forum has been held annually at SCC since September 2001. All events are free and open to the public. Parking for patrons is free in the campus Yellow and Purple lots. 

For more information, visit stchas.edu/democracydays or email mkuelker@stchas.edu. 

St. Charles Community College strives to provide reasonable accommodations to all people at any SCC-sponsored event. Please contact Disability Support Services at dss@stchas.edu or 636-922-8581 as early as possible to discuss your needs.

St. Charles Community College is a public, comprehensive two-year community college with associate degrees and certificate programs in the arts, business, sciences and career-technical fields. SCC provides workforce training and community-based personal and professional development as well as cultural, recreational and entertainment opportunities. For more information, visit www.stchas.edu.