DVIDS – News – Empowering Future Women Leaders: Nevada Guard Women’s Leadership Forum Returns

Reno, Nev.–The Nevada National Guard hosted the second annual Women’s Leadership Forum jointly at the Nevada Air National Guard Base and the Las Vegas Readiness Center, March 4, 2022. The event was dedicated in Women’s History Month and the goal of the was to empower and educate leaders, especially women, and work to create an inclusive workplace culture.

“When you talk about diversity, equity and inclusion – and you talk about leadership development – ​​these are all strategic priorities and force multipliers for us as an organization,” Maj. Gen. Ondra said. Berry, Adjutant General of Nevada. “It makes us more ready to do the work for this great state and this great nation.”

The theme of the forum was SAFE: Self Advocate. Ally. Find your voice. Empower.

Keynote speakers for the event included Chief Master Sgt. Lisa Perry, Colorado Air National Guard Command Leader, who spoke to attendees about embracing diversity and empowering the next generation of female leaders. Additionally, keynote speaker Col. David Chauvin, Nevada Air National Guard Chief of Staff, spoke about becoming a better ally.

“You can’t always understand, but you can listen — you can validate,” Chauvin said.

The event included breakout sessions with female military and civilian leaders focused on women finding their voice and self-defense. Forum participants included junior enlisted members, non-commissioned officers and commissioned officers and all participated in the leadership discussions. The sessions allowed women to share their stories and answer participants’ questions on topics such as leadership, challenges, mentoring and career development.

“I’ve taken an interesting path to where I am,” Col. Mary Devine, USPFO for Nevada, said during a breakout session. “It’s my responsibility to make things better for the leaders who follow.” During her session, Devine emphasized the importance of being open to lifelong learning, being an advocate for yourself and others in addition to caring for your family.

Senior Airman Katie Grover, Deputy Military Personnel Management assigned to Joint Force Headquarters and recipient of the 2021 Outstanding Airman of the Year, attended the forum and reflected on her experience.

“I hope to inspire other female Airmen by taking the examples given today,” Grover said. “Even if you’re an E-3 or an E-4, it helped me show that as a Junior Enlisted Airman, women can help each other become stronger and better leaders.”