In 1994, Lois B. Hart, Ed.D. already had 30 years of experience working with all kinds of companies and organizations and was the author of 23 books and tapes.
One day, Lois sketched
on a paper napkin a vision for a women’s leadership
institute. This simple act served as the catalyst
for Lois to move her vision forward.
Research about women in business showed that this
substantial sector was an under-developed resource, detrimental
not only to women but also to companies that are missing critical
opportunities for profitability and growth. Though women comprise
over 50% of middle management positions, they hold 14% of executive leadership positions in corporations (Catylist, 2006).
In 1997, a WLI Leadership
Team was formed. Various corporate women executives,
women leadership development experts, organization development
consultants, and curriculum developers spent two years
researching, identifying critical leadership skills,
and developing the comprehensive WLI model.
By 2006, the charter Women’s Leadership Institute in Denver had graduated ten classes with spectacular results— 75% of our Graduates have received promotions.
Wow!!
What a year! Beginning with the retreat, I met all of these
wonderful, high-energy leaders in the Denver area, and then
got to work with them at the monthly workshops. What an amazing
gift!! The time has gone so fast. Obviously others saw my
new confidence and skills because I got a promotion!
Christine
White, Director of Quality Services
Coors Brewing Co.
Many more Women Leadership Institutes are needed. As “Annie Appleseed”, Lois Hart will next “plants seeds” throughout the United States. Her vision on a napkin to advance women in leadership positions is alive and growing.
