CEOs, presidents, founders and leaders. Mothers, wives, sisters and friends. The Women of Western Wake embody all of these, and they’re always happy to share their stories.
As we prepare to announce the 2011 Women of Western Wake, we reflect back on the touching perspectives shared by those who came before them. They offer advice on life, work and everything in between.
Pat Bazemore, a 2005 Woman of Western Wake and current Cary Police chief, believes success is rooted in stepping outside of the safe zone. “So many times taking a risk leads us to do things better, even if the risk results in failure. I consider not seizing opportunities as more of a failure,” she said. “Overall, just knowing at the end of the day I’ve made a difference is so fulfilling.”
From the 2006 honorees, June Atkinson, State Superintendent of Public Instruction, encourages women to follow the Golden Rule: “I always tried to instill that working well with someone, respect for others and getting the point across while remaining tactful was very important in the business world.”
A proactive approach is key for reaching goals for N.C. Appeals Court Judge Ann Marie Calabria. “I have a low tolerance for complainers. It gets you nowhere,” the 2007 Woman of Western Wake said. “If you run up against a barrier, you have to do something about it.”
Mary Lou Powell, 2008 honoree from Rex Healthcare, advocates devoting time to the issues that matter most and not sweating the small things. “You are on the spot: Make a decision. Those decisions that you make are going to fall into a bell curve. Some will be super; some maybe can be done better. Most will be in the middle,” she said.
In 2009, Billie Redmond, CEO of Coldwell Banker Commercial TradeMark Properties, emphasized the importance of knowledge. “Whether it’s about your work, what you’re studying where you are currently with your life endeavors, learn all you can about it,” she advised. “Be truly prepared.”
And finally, from last year’s honorees, Cynthia Marshall, president of AT&T North Carolina, shared her thoughts on the root of why we do the things we do. “I learned that people matter, and that’s all that matters. That’s who gets the results; they deliver the goods. And that’s the foundation of what I do every day; it’s all about people.”
So what sage words will this year’s group of leading ladies provide? Stay tuned to the September/October issue of Cary Magazine to see this year’s honorees and read their stories.
The Women of Western Wake Luncheon will be held Friday, Oct. 14, at the Umstead Hotel & Spa. The event will include a panel discussion emceed by ABC 11’s Angela Hampton, along with lunch and networking.
The luncheon has been a sellout event in all prior years, so be sure to purchase tickets early.
