Women do not magically develop into leaders overnight. Women leaders are involved in an ongoing process to build their character and cultivate their strengths.
More than one type of woman exists. Strong women are aslo multi-dimensional.
"Strong women are intelligent, street smart and self-assured," June Henton, dean of the College of Human Sciences said. "They act on the strength of their convictions and are able to hold their own in situations of controversy and disagreement. They are secure in their personal and professional lives and strive to help others reach their potential."
Strong women do not fret over what other people think.
"With self-confidence, a woman can focus on the job at hand instead of on the criticism she will inevitably receive for making strong decisions and actions," said Barbara Baker, director of the Women's Leadership Institute.
Having the ability to lead in any situation is an imperative skill for women.
"If we learn to trust our own voices, we can improve the situations in our own families, communities and the world," Baker said.
Women must have a strong sense of value and self-worth.
"My character and responsibilities are very important to me," Mack said. "I not only represent myself and my family, but I am standing on the backs of my foremothers who have sacrificed and worked hard so that I can partake in the opportunities presented to me."
At the same time, women must not base their self-worth on a job.
"You get your strength not from what you accomplish in the work place, but from what you acquire in your personal life," Lee County Revenue Commissioner Oline Price said.
Women leaders make the most of their strengths and accept their weaknesses. They have a sense of humor and do not take themselves too seriously.
Women should be honest with themselves and others. A strong woman does not imitate another individual, but stays true to herself.
Even when others are uncomfortable with a person, the person should be comfortable with themselves, said Anna Gramberg, Dean of the College of Liberal Arts.
"The more comfortable you are with yourself, the more authentic you are and the more successful you will be," Gramberg said.
Women leaders network and find form positive working relationships. They seek not only the best in themselves, but the best in others.
"It's not about what I can accomplish, but what I can help others accomplish," said Mary Ellen Mazy, Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs.
A woman can be assertive and accomplish her goals without being obstinate.
"The people I look up to the most do their work very well, are brilliant women and have an element of kindness to them that sets them apart," said Jerri Caldwell, an extension and IT specialist in the Department of Entomology and Plant Pathology.
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