How do you define an exemplary leader? My own experience has taught me that leadership style is a very individual thing. Effective leadership inspires us and sets a standard for us to aspire to.
Yesterday, at the Fairmont Hotel in DC, the American Society for Association Executives (ASAE) held a luncheon and awards ceremony, “In Honor of Women,” to celebrate women who shape their community as well as educate and encourage other women in their leadership roles. The Women Who Advance Excellence in Associations Awards acknowledges female association executives and industry partners for their contribution to promote standards of excellence in their professional lives through their leadership, mentoring, and career advancement.
Peers in the association community must nominate a candidate based on her gifts and accomplishments. Afterwards, the candidate is vetted by committee. All of the women recognized at the ASAE luncheon are pioneers in their own right, working to open doors and support other women to take risks and reach beyond themselves.
I found their remarks inspiring and, curiously, similar. They spoke of the importance of having a personal network of family, colleagues and friends who believed in them and supported their commitment to their career. Most referred to others who had influenced and mentored them over the years. They talked about their own drive to give back and influence the lives of others and the reciprocity principle of often feeling that they receive more than they give. And they shared about the importance valuing team members and working to build relationships based on trust and mutual respect.
Congratulations to all those who were honored yesterday:
- Sharon Swan , CEO of the American Society for Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics—Community Award;
- Debbie Hackman, CEO for the Georgia Nurses Association and Georgia Nurses Foundation—Mentor of the Year Award;
- Velma R Hart, CFO for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund—Mentor of the Year Award;
- Rebecca Spicer, VP of Public Affairs and Communications for the National Beer Wholesalers Association—Rising Star Award;
- Debra Stratton, President of Stratton Publising & Marketing, Inc—Industry Partner of the Year Award;
- Marie M Fallon, past CEO of the National Association of Local Boards of Health—Posthumous Lifetime Achievement Recognition Award;
- Anne Bryant, Executive Director, Emeritus, National School Boards Association—Lifetime Achievement Award
For more information about the ceremony and awards, you can visit the ASAE microsite.