ADVANCE: Montgomery Women's Leadership Digest

February 2025

A Message from Leadership

February is Black History Month in the USA (still, and hopefully continuing to be so). In addition, if you refer to Chase’s Calendar of Events – the “official” catalog of special dates and celebrations (check your library online or here) – you learn of a plethora of other recognitions both serious and humorous. One for February is a designation I created over 20 years ago – National Time Management Month. While initially done for an aspect of my business promotion, it has become recognized world-wide and expanded to life management, which I touch on briefly here and discuss in greater detail in the article accessible through the 'Read Here' button below.

The official description for the recognition reads: “This is the month when the noble plans made in January begin to go awry. This month is dedicated to renewing those best laid plans, breaking open those new calendars that have yet to be opened, and evaluating and re-prioritizing harried, out-of-balance lives – making specific commitments to balance them.”

As a leader – whether in a formal leadership position in an organization with a designated title, or simply inspiring people to follow you in your family, community, or generally as a person – time management becomes life management as you juggle commitments, goals, intentions, wants, needs, and others’ demands. This is especially so for us women.

In the full article, you'll find five approaches to life management for leaders that involve the decisions you make about how you use time and set priorities.

Read Here

In summary, as you move into the second month of the year, re-evaluate the intentions, goals, and plans you set when the year started against the intersection of managing your time and life.

Until next time,

Sylvia Henderson

Vice President, Montgomery Women

Member Spotlights

EsiSonia Sotoglo

Founder & CEO,

The CORE Foundation

EsiSonia is the Founder and CEO of the CORE Foundation, a charitable organization focused on supporting the unsheltered community. EsiSonia’s journey began during her teenage years at her church, which was located next to a seasonal women’s shelter. She and her siblings dedicated much of their youth to volunteering — preparing meals and fundraising. EsiSonia also serves as a Rapid Rehousing Case Manager at InterFaith Works where she supports individuals who are currently or have previously experienced homelessness maintain their housing and adapt to life with consistent, secure shelter.

Ashley Wilson

Head of Partnership,

Quiller

Ashley currently serves as the Head of Partnership for Quiller, an AI copilot that helps mission-driven organizations draft high-quality, effective content. Prior to joining Quiller, Ashley served as Vice President of Political Campaigns and Committees at NGP VAN, where she played a pivotal role in shaping political data and CSM partnerships with a market-shaping technology platform. Previous roles Ashley held also includes Organizing Director and Field Director roles on multiple high-profile campaigns, such as Hillary for America, Obama for America, Organizing for America, and Valesky for NY State Senate.

Leadership Nuggets

Must Read

Ethical leadership is facing increasing challenges as critics undermine leaders who prioritize integrity and values. However, research proves that leaders who commit to ethics through actions, decision-making frameworks, and a values-centered culture are more likely to secure long-term success for their organization as well as foster trust and loyalty from the workforce. In a recent Forbes article, psychologist Kathy Miller Perkins reminds us that leading with values in a climate that does not always recognize or reward such efforts demands strategic choices and a steadfast commitment. Click here to read her insights on leading with ethics in a power-centric world.

Recommended Listening

In this episode of "HBR IdeaCast," Dr. Sanita Sah introduces a research-backed framework for deciding when to say no in a world that demands yes. Listen here.

Have a leadership resource you want to share? Click below.

Share Here

Key Updates

The Montgomery Women Power Tea Returns

Montgomery Women is delighted to announce the much-anticipated return of the Montgomery Women Annual Power Tea on Sunday, March 30. This signature event highlights the achievements of outstanding women leaders that have modeled and championed women’s full participation in public life and have motivated others to greater accomplishments. The Power Tea will once again feature the presentation of the Shining Star Award, which commemorates the legacies of Delegate Jane Lawton and County Councilmember Marilyn Praisner for their indelible contributions to public service. Click here to learn more about the event, registration, and sponsorship opportunities.

Engaging with the Montgomery Women community

This month we are pleased to welcome Carrie Sanders and Tiffani Smith to our vibrant and dynamic community!

If you haven't already, we’re encouraging all new and returning members to complete their member profiles in our directory. The member directory is an incredible resource for networking, collaboration, and professional growth. By completing your profile, fellow members can connect with you based on shared interests and expertise. If you have questions, please email communications@montgomerywomen.org.