ADVANCE: Montgomery Women's Leadership Digest

February 2024

A Message from Leadership

Letting go...

I just facilitated a workshop for Montgomery County employees (supervisory-level) titled "Successful Delegation: Achieving Results Through Others". Yet, I am somewhat remiss at practicing what I "preach". This is one leadership practice that deserves greater discipline.

At the end of last week (it doesn't matter which week as you're reading this) I felt exhausted and impatient. It was a good week, full of business contract fulfillment, preparation for a big event, facilitation, which I love doing, and participation in an all-adult Girl Scout weekend at camp. I should have been high on achievements yet found myself tense from the stress of "doing it all". How about you? When you're in leadership positions - assuming you like being a leader - do you find yourself stressed instead of energized at times? Why do we do this to ourselves?

"No one else can do this [task] as well as I can."

"It takes longer to convey to someone else that which I can do faster myself."

"I'm not sure (the proverbial 'they') are ready to tackle this."

"They're just as busy; I feel guilty asking them to do more."

"I don't want others to think I'm incompetent / can't handle it all."

"My ego precludes me from asking for help."

Are any of the above familiar for you? At one time or another they have all been thoughts I've had throughout years in leadership roles in corporate, volunteer-run organizations, and my own business. They are also challenges shared by participants in my workshop...who happen to have been all women!

So from this point forward, let's stop doing this to ourselves. Let's look at all our "dos" and "shoulds" to determine what we can let go and let others do. Part of our leadership role is to help those we lead learn and grow. One way to do that is to delegate and support them in taking on greater responsibilities. We're strong women! Let's get better at asking for assistance from our staff, volunteers, and board members.

Delegate, yet don't abdicate (final, ultimate responsibility)! Let me know how this feels for you.

Until next time,

Sylvia Henderson

President, Montgomery Women

Member Spotlights

Clover Baker-Brown

Professor, Prince George's Community College (PGCC)

Dr. Baker-Brown currently serves as a tenured professor of communications and public relations at Prince George's Community College (PGCC). With a career spanning two decades, she has held several faculty leadership positions, including vice president and president of the Faculty Senate - representing over 252 full-time and more than 600 part-time faculty members. She has also served as an advisor to the Faculty Senate, chair of the Academic Council, and academic coordinator/chair of the communications, public relations, and journalism program. Dr. Baker-Brown's groundbreaking achievements include being the first black woman to serve as the president of the Maryland Communication Association. She has also been recognized as Who is Who in Teaching in America in addition to receiving the faculty of the year award, best faculty advisor, and the David P. James Excellence Award in faculty mentoring.

Adina Crawford

Certified Yoga Teacher,

Deanietheyogini LLC

Adina is an avid fitness enthusiast and passionate about creating inclusive spaces for communities to engage in wellness activities. As a certified yoga teacher, Adina brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her practice, teaching gentle yoga, chair yoga, Yin yoga and meditation, and mindfulness. Her yoga specialties are Vinyasa, sculpt, and restorative. She is also a certified aqua bootcamp instructor, highlighting her multifaceted approach to fitness. Beyond the mat and pool, Adina collaborates with Lululemon, Athleta, Oiselle, and numerous community organizations to increase participation and representation in the health and wellness sector. Her roles as a Board Member for the Black Girls Run Foundation, REI Co-op Partner, and Ambassador for Terry Bikes, Honeystinger, Pacers, Fleet Feet Sports, and Nuun reflect her far-reaching influence across various platforms and steadfast dedication to wellness, community, and diversity.

Quick Tips

For the Everyday Leader

As we step into February, we embrace Black History Month with open hearts and reflective minds. This month serves as a profound reminder of the resilience, courage, and enduring spirit of the Black community. It's a time to honor the significant contributions and achievements of Black individuals throughout history and to acknowledge the pivotal role they have played in shaping our society.

Black History Month is not just about reflecting on the past; it's a call to action for the present and the future. It's an opportunity for us to deepen our understanding, challenge our perspectives, and commit to the ongoing fight for justice and equality. The stories of Black leaders, thinkers, artists, and everyday heroes continue to inspire us and drive positive change in our communities and beyond. Let's use this month to elevate the voices and experiences of Black individuals, recognizing that Black history is an integral part of our shared history.

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Key Updates

Help Achieve an Outsized Impact

Montgomery Women's Board wishes to recognize and thank Jennifer Russel for her generous contribution in support of Montgomery Women's mission to launch women leaders. Donations like Jennifer's help to sponsor a program, a special event, a new (or student) member, an area of our website, and so much more. Montgomery Women is a 501c3 organization so there are tax benefits to your donations and RMD gifts.

If you're also interested in supporting our partnership with Montgomery College, you can donate to our Women in Leadership Scholarship Fund. Since 2008, Montgomery Women members have contributed more than $100,000 to help 85 women complete their education through scholarships and other financial support. A gift of any amount makes a difference. Read a recent Bethesda Magazine article (page 26) about why Montgomery Women Board Member Bobbi Shulman gives to Montgomery College and learn more about all options for donating on our website.

Membership Renewals

Each member of Montgomery Women will receive email reminders to renew their membership prior to the one year anniversary date of their current membership period. If your membership expires, you will receive an email informing you of this status and instructions for reinstating your membership. Keep an eye on your inbox for these important emails or simply renew on our website at any time. If you have questions, please email membership@montgomerywomen.org.