Hanging with Nancy P.

Recently several CWU staff and clients had the opportunity to attend a conference in Cambridge, MA called “Gifted Women.” The event, which was held in a spectacular private home (complete with a ballroom!), was attended by high-powered women business leaders and elected officials (who paid $2000+ to attend), as well as by representatives of nonprofits and community groups.  There were about 150 or so women in all. 

It was a daylong event, held under a tent on a beautiful day, together with panels on the economy, healthcare, national security and running for elected office. One of our 20-year-old program participants stood up and asked a very pointed question at the economy panel relating to the war in Iraq (the panel seemed very impressed by her question!)

The goal of the day was to raise awareness of and participation in the political system by women. A researcher reported that many women say they don’t feel “qualified” to run for office so they don’t; the same survey showed that although men may not feel qualified, they run anyway! There was time for networking, and the highlight of the day was a rousing speech given by Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi. Since it was a pretty intimate event, you almost felt like you were part of some “inner” circle.  I have never attended an event quite like this one.