GMLC Session I kicked off successfully, with a 35-member class this year. Challengers were inspired by each other and enjoyed getting acquainted and beginning their individual Challenge experiences.

With 5.0 being excellent, the Challengers rated the session 4.79, with energetic and inspiring comments from all.

Our Session I Planning team was co-chaired by Jen Bradley of Commerce Bank, alumna 2009, and Mara Roberts of Columbia College, alumna 2014.   Also serving on the team were Nancy Allison, alumna 2012; Sarah Dubbert, alumna 2012; Carrie Allen, alumna 2011; Carolyn Paris, alumna 2013; Jan Beckett, alumna 2013; Noelle Case, alumna 2013; Kelly Schultz, alumna 2013; Stacye Smith, alumna 2014; Jill Schlude, alumna 2015; Amy Schneider, alumna 2015; Loreli Wilson, alumna 2015; Jessica Macy, alumna 2015; and Jill Grenseman, alumna 2016.

Session I sponsors for 2017 included Stephens College, Columbia Convention & Visitors Bureau, Columbia College, State Farm Insurance, Shelter Insurance, Veterans United Home Loans, Missouri Employers Mutual, Commerce Bank, and Nancy Allison, and Tina Workman.    Prior the session, Dr. Tina Dalrymple, alumna 2016, had opened her home to the central Missouri Challengers and Nancy Wolfe, alumna 2010, had opened her home to the St. Louis area Challengers.

Very special thanks to Teresa Maledy and Commerce Bank for purchasing Strengths-Based Leadership books for ALL of our Challengers and to Leigh Anne Taylor Knight for once again providing the training of Strengths Based Leadership to open the session for Greater Missouri!