The inaugural Elevate Women's Leadership & Empowerment Series marked a bold step in reimagining how women lead and connect at Cornell. Created by Debra Howell, director of IT Operations at Cornell University Library, the program was designed to go beyond traditional leadership training - offering space for women to explore their authentic leadership identities, build confidence and foster meaningful relationships.
"When I created the series, I was inspired to build the kind of leadership experience I wished I had encountered earlier in my own career - one that centered the unique challenges and strengths of women in leadership," Howell shared. "Often, professional development programs focus on surface-level skills without creating space for deeper reflection, authentic connection and personal growth. I wanted to design something different."
"Ultimately, my dream is for Elevate to help normalize a leadership model ... where women feel seen, supported and celebrated in every room they enter."
Debra Howell
Over eight months, 22 participants engaged in a carefully curated mix of executive coaching, interactive workshops, reflective practices and peer dialogue. Sessions blended core leadership competencies with personal exploration of identity, values and power. Elevate also emphasized building community and intentionally addressing the isolation women in leadership often experience.
"Leadership shouldn't be a solo journey," Howell noted. "Too often, women feel isolated, especially when they're one of only a few in the room. I wanted Elevate to be more than a program; I wanted it to be a community."
Lauren Frederick, administrative coordinator for the Department of Inclusion and Belonging, participated in Elevate at a time when she was feeling stuck and exploring ways to grow. The experience, she says, became a turning point.
"Halfway through the program, I realized I was already growing professionally - and that all I needed in the first place was an opportunity," Frederick said. "The combination of coaching, thoughtful discussions and meaningful connections really changed the way I think about career development. I came to see that I already have leadership skills and talents; I just needed a little support and mentorship to express them confidently. Now, I can actually see myself in a leadership role, which I couldn't before."
A session of the "Elevate Women's Leadership & Empowerment Series."
The program's impact extended beyond skill-building to personal transformation. One participant, who initially questioned her authority in a new leadership role, shared during the final session that - for the first time in her career - she no longer felt the need to 'shrink' to be accepted. She had found the tools, language and support to step into her power with clarity and confidence.
Stories like this echoed throughout the cohort, with participants describing the series as "life-changing" and "transformational" - a catalyst for leading with authenticity, courage and purpose.
Looking ahead, Howell hopes Elevate becomes a permanent part of leadership development at Cornell, evolving and expanding to reach more women across the institution.
"Ultimately, my dream is for Elevate to help normalize a leadership model that values vulnerability, community and diversity of thought - where women feel seen, supported and celebrated in every room they enter," she said.
Elevate was made possible by a Frank H.T. Rhodes Leadership Grant from the President's Council for Cornell Women (PCCW).
