The 12th National Women’s Leadership & Allies Summit & Awards is truly one for the books.
This year, the power of women’s voices was heard loud and clear. Women from across the nation showed up boldly, purposefully, and with undeniable presence as we explored our theme, “Making Connections: Driving Leadership Together.” Through meaningful dialogue, authentic experiences, and shared wisdom, we discovered how “The Power of Her Voice: Storytelling as Leadership” shapes influence, strengthens leadership, and creates lasting impact. The summit became a powerful reminder that when women lead with their stories, they inspire connection, courage, and collective advancement.
And storytelling was, indeed, at the center of it all.
From the authentic brilliance of Talia Fox to the dynamic leadership wisdom of Gloria Mayfield Banks, we leaned deeply into truth, resilience, purpose, and the masterful art of navigating career and leadership journeys. This issue’s cover celebrates the joy of connection and sisterhood, featuring Julie Praytor, Karen Hong, Sandy Fiaschetti, Stacey Penn, and me sharing a memorable moment together at our signature White Party.
One of the summit’s defining moments for me personally was the opportunity to host an unforgettable fireside chat with our incomparable Career Mastered Living Legend, Soledad O’Brien. Her gracious engagement with attendees and her powerful reflections on journalism, leadership, and truth-telling reminded us all that authentic storytelling is not simply communication — it is influence, courage, and impact.
The crowning moments of the summit were undoubtedly our Leadership in Action Awards, where excellence, service, and transformational leadership took center stage. Honoring Dr. Valerie Kinloch, President of Johnson C. Smith University and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Chief of Police, Estella Patterson was a powerful reminder of what visionary leadership looks like in action.
More than 50 extraordinary women across multiple industries and disciplines were recognized for their remarkable achievements and contributions.
A particularly moving moment was celebrating Career Mastered Rising Star Abby Wan, recipient of the LaVerne Gardner Lindsay Stewart Scholarship generously presented by Coca-Cola Consolidated and awarded by LaVerne’s grandchildren, Jonathan Wicker and Carla Roberts. It was a beautiful reflection of legacy, opportunity, and investing in the next generation of women leaders.
The acceptance speeches from our Master Honorees including Terri Zanhuis, Karen Hong, and Sonita Lontoh, resonated deeply with attendees and reinforced the summit’s enduring message: your voice matters, your story matters, and leadership grows stronger when truth leads the way.
The 12th National Summit & Awards was an undeniable success, made possible by our incredible sponsors, attendees, partners, volunteers, and community. Thank you for believing in the mission and helping us create a transformational leadership experience.
We were also thrilled to announce and launch the new Career Mastered Leadership Capacity Pinnacle™ during the event — and nearly 100 women have already joined this exciting leadership community. If you have not yet become part of this growing movement, we invite you to join us. Simply head over to careermastered.com. Your next level of leadership development, connection, and growth awaits!
As we embrace the Summer 2026 season, may you continue to own your voice, honor your story, and lead with courage, authenticity, and purpose.
We look forward to seeing you inside the Pinnacle and throughout the pages of Career Mastered Magazine.
Wishing you a powerful and purposeful summer.
Dr. Lisa J. Lindsay Wicker, Publisher
Contact Dr. Lisa via email: info@careermastered.com
