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More than 50 female high school students attended the Women Empowerment Student Summit held on March 24, 2025. Students from various Plainfield high schools, including Plainfield High School-Central Campus, Plainfield South, Plainfield North, Plainfield East, and Plainfield Academy, gathered at the Administration Center to meet accomplished female professionals for mentorship and inspiration.
Dr. Kate Morris, district Director of High School Curriculum and Instruction, described the event as a day of engagement and learning. It featured several speakers: Angie Carlson, Marketing Director at Elsevier, author, and founder of LIVE to LEARN; Dr. Rachel Mahmood, the Illinois State Board of Education 2024 Teacher of the Year and educational consultant; Michelle Smith, township official and business owner; and Sharnell Weathersby, founder of Grace and Beauty Tea Collection and Association Director of New Categories with Kimberly-Clark.
The speakers shared their personal and professional experiences, providing insights on leadership, career development, and personal growth. After the presentations, students had the opportunity to engage with the speakers by asking questions during a panel discussion.
The summit addressed various topics such as public service and philanthropy, holistic wellness and strategic goal setting, navigating personal challenges, building belonging, and developing personal professional brands.
Organizers expressed hope that the event would inspire students to pursue their goals with confidence and purpose, and to bridge the gap between education and professional success.
