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YWCA/Meredith Collaborate on Women In Connection Series The YWCA of the Greater Triangle and Meredith College are collaborating on a new educational series for women that launches this month. “Women In Connection” draws on the strengths of the two organizations to provide a new approach to leadership development. The program is based on the principles of the relational-cultural theory developed by Jean Baker Miller, which purports that all growth occurs in connection, and that growth-fostering relationships are created through mutual empathy and mutual empowerment. Combining the ideals of the YWCA Women’s Empowerment initiative and the Meredith College Institute for Women’s Leadership, the six-part series encourages participants to explore their inner passion for connectedness, rather than competition, in opportunities of growth. The program further endeavors to inspirit civic engagement and open doors for involvement in community service. The foundational teachings of the Women In Connection program will give women an opportunity to grow through connection as they develop clarity about themselves and others without judgment. Participants will also explore the negative impact of disconnection and examine the importance of difference as it informs the imbalance of power and privilege. “The Meredith College community is thrilled to partner with the YWCA on the Women In Connection program,” said Anitra N. Baldwin, founding director of the Meredith College Institute for Women’s Leadership. “The core challenges of leadership in the coming days will be enormous and will take those with an inner awareness and commitment to our common future to address them and develop a reasonable end.” The Institute for Women’s Leadership is a consortium of centers for research, teaching, and learning at Meredith College and serves as a multi-dimensional resource to advance the complex interests of women. Baldwin applies her experience in leadership development to the creation of student and adult learning programs in collaboration with campus and community members. The programs are intended to foster a culture of leadership by providing diverse opportunities for women of all ages to develop as ethical and responsible leaders. “Our organizations have a shared interest in advancing women's leadership and removing barriers that prohibit that potential from being realized,” said Folami Bandele, executive director of the YWCA of the Greater Triangle. “We believe that our partnership signifies our joint intention and effort to respond to an urgent call to action for those who lead.” Through its four core initiatives of Women’s Empowerment, Racial Justice, Youth Development and Health & Wellness, the YWCA strives to improve the social and economic conditions that affect girls, women and their families by addressing the disparities that exist in health, education and economics. The YWCA provides life-changing opportunities through targeted programs such as Women In Connection. Posted March 5, 2009. Date Submitted: 2009-03-05 |
