Town of Lexington women staff members graduate from Women’s Institute for Leadership and Learning
T his past month, the Town of Lexington celebrated 18 women staff members graduation from the Women’s Institute for Leadership and Learning(WILL). A Town-run initiative to provide women staff members the opportunity to build, enhance, and grow their leadership skills. The speakers and topic areas are intentionally designed to provide participants with exposure to real-life experiences to apply to their personal and professional roles. The program was developed and launched by Kelly Axtell, Deputy Town Manager, Melissa Battite, Director of Recreation and Community Programs, Abraham Fofanah, former Management Fellow, and was supported by Taylor Galusha, Director of Communications.
“Just talking to colleagues, meeting people across the country, and just talking with our employees themselves, I feel committed to lifting and supporting women,” Axtell said, regarding what inspired her. “And starting here in Lexington with my fellow colleagues is a natural thing for me.”
The Town received a grant from the Jacquelyn R. Smith Memorial Fund to support part of the programming, as well as time donated by speakers to bring the program to life. Participants came from almost every town department and ranged from administrative staff to department heads, truly emphasizing the importance of continued learning and development at all stages of one’s professional career. Congratulations to all of the graduates who continue to make Lexington a great place to work and live!
Right photo: Melissa Battite (left) and deputy town manager Kelly Axtell (right) are pictured with Lieutenant Governor Kim Driscoll, a speaker at the WILL graduation ceremony. Below: The women from the town of Lexington who graduated from the Women’s Institute for Leadership and Learning program. (Courtesy photos)