When we vote, we come together. The election is this week and this is your friendly reminder that it’s time to exercise your right to vote. In doing so, you help to shape the world we live in, #liftwomenup, and complete your civic duty all at once.

As we heard from our previous Women of the Year honorees during our Inspiring Conversations Series, we lift women up by voting but also speaking up when it comes to the issues that impact women the most. At Greater Missouri, we embrace the idea that women’s voices should be heard in all sectors and you can shout out loud by casting your ballot on Tuesday.

We thank our participants, sponsors, and ticket purchasers for their support for our experimental virtual conversations. It really was inspirational to hear from these women and learn what they have been doing personally and professionally since being selected as a Woman of the Year. Be watching our YouTube Channel as we share highlights from the three sessions that featured Director Chris Chinn, Teresa Maledy, Cici Rojas, Linda Arnold, Maxine Clark, Dr. Julie Middleton, Prosecutor Jean Peters Baker, Kristy Chastain; June McAlister Fowler; Karen Miller; and Dr. Tina Olson. Our introductory video is fun viewing and it is worth saying thanks again to our wonderful sponsors.

In the meantime, while much of Missouri is focused on the upcoming election, there’s another contingent already busy trying to figure out how to stage next year’s Challenge Class experience — during a pandemic. Over the past year our Board of Directors have committed to remain true to our program goals in which women learn, connect and grow in a way that will advance both their careers and their companies. We had to pivot. But we aren’t slowing down.

Recruitment and selection for our cohort of high-potential professional women for four sessions of a Challenge Class of 2021 is underway. These new Challengers will join those who are able to repeat our last 3 sessions from the Class of 2020. If you have a candidate in mind who is ready to elevate her career and her company, they must complete the application process by November 27th. The Board will select a limited group of new leaders during a special December board meeting and all notifications for the Class of 2021 will go out by year’s end. All are invited to apply for these limited slots to empower women to grow in incredible ways through their leadership journey and join a network committed to supporting each other as we continue to #liftwomenup.