3rd Annual Women of Power Reception a Huge Success

The Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center and its nonpartisan student program Maine NEW (National Education for Women) Leadership hosted the 3rd annual Women of Power Networking Reception at the Senator Inn in Augusta on Thursday, February 13.

Women of Power celebrates those individuals who serve the state of Maine in Augusta and beyond and those who will become Maine’s future leaders. Maine’s women legislators served as the co-hosts for the event and Governor Janet Mills was our special guest.

Each year at Women of Power, Maine NEW Leadership recognizes the recipient of the Minerva Award, which is given to a Maine woman leader who exemplifies the values of the program; leadership for the betterment of Maine; a commitment to civil dialogue; and a passion for civic engagement. President of the University of Maine, Joan Ferrini-Mundy presented the 2020 Minerva Award to the Honorable Joyce Maker.

A complete photo gallery of the event can be accessed on the Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center or Maine NEW Leadership Facebook pages.

The proceeds from the Women of Power Networking Reception directly funds NEW Leadership’s educational program designed to educate and empower young people by giving them the skills necessary to become the next generation of effective civic and political leaders. By participating in Maine NEW Leadership, students gain a greater awareness of their own abilities to lead, their expertise and qualifications to take on a leadership role, as well as the many opportunities for them in civic life and public office.  With the skills they learn and the networks they develop, participants are empowered and energized to emerge as leaders.

Each year in June, NEW Leadership hosts a six-day residential undergraduate student leadership training program free of charge for participants. The program includes presentations from politically active women throughout Maine, a visit with women legislators and policy advocates at the State House, and workshops for participants to actively develop leadership skills, such as public speaking, advocacy, and networking.  Participants also benefit from the experience of faculty-in-residence, a group of women public leaders who serve as mentors for students throughout their stay.

If you would like to donate to Maine NEW Leadership please click here or text NEWLEAD to 44-321.