The sixth annual Women’s Leadership Breakfast was held at Levitt Hall in Old Main on Friday, Feb. 28. More than 20 community leaders and nearly 80 students, faculty, and staff were in attendance at the breakfast, which was hosted by Drake’s College of Business and Public Administration (CBPA).
“This event brings together community leaders, Drake alumni and faculty, staff and students to share meaningful advice with female leaders and future female leaders,” says Annette Watson, career services manager at Drake University. “And, it allows us to celebrate women in business.”
Maddy Maxwell, spouse of Drake University President David Maxwell, introduced the keynote speaker, Janet Phipps Burkhead, LW‘05.
Burkhead opened the breakfast by challenging attendees to consider ways to give back. Burkhead serves as the general counsel for the Iowa Department of Administrative Services. In 2012, the Des Moines Business Record recognized Burkhead as a Woman of Influence honoree.
Her speech—filled with personal stories and experiences—encouraged attendees to reach their potential and give back whenever possible.
At the breakfast, Burkhead was presented with the CBPA Women’s Impact Award, which honors professionalism, leadership, and dedication to the community.
The event also honored eight current female students in CBPA. Four awards for leadership and four awards for community service were given.
Leadership award winners:
• First-year: Marianna Moroz, marketing and public relations
• Sophomore: Brittany Fortunato, accounting and information systems
• Junior: Jessica O’Donnell, actuarial science and finance
• Senior: Hayley Keil, marketing and public relations
Community service award winners:
• First Year: Beth LeValley, management
• Sophomore: Emily Enquist, marketing, international business, and psychology
• Junior: Kyndal Clark, information systems
• Senior: Ashima Laad, accounting and finance
For more information, contact Annette Watson at 515-271-4715 or annette.watson@drake.edu.