New Class of ADWLA Holds First Meeting of the Year in Jonesboro
Ladies in the 2025 class of the Arkansas Delta Women's Leadership Academy attend their first meeting on campus at Arkansas State University.
JONESBORO — The 25 ladies who make up the new class of the Arkansas Delta Women’s Leadership Academy attended the first of six meetings on campus at Arkansas State University this week.
This is the second class of ADWLA. Andrea Allen, who co-chairs the leadership academy, said they are taking what they learned last year to better prepare female leaders.
“This year we aim to empower each participant to unlock their full leadership potential and use it to help elevate their communities in the Arkansas Delta. Our focus is on fostering confidence, goal setting and project management, self-care, negotiations, cultural competence and mentorship,” said Allen, executive director of the Delta Center for Economic Development.
“I want this year’s class to leave with a passion to carry on what we started last year. To make an impact in their communities and to continue to build on the network we have started,” added Cari White, ADWLA program coordinator.
In their two-day first meeting, ladies heard from community leaders about Jonesboro, received a welcome from A-State Chancellor Dr. Todd Shields, learned more about the program from Allen, and were encouraged about future leadership by Dr. Cherisse Jones-Branch.
“ADWLA brings women together in supportive environments to help them strengthen their leadership skills, strategies, and networks for implementation in their communities,” said Jones-Branch, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Communication.
Those participating this year say they are looking forward to the challenge.
“I am ready to connect with a network of professional Southern women who are developing themselves and those around them sharing careers, goals, resources, and a love for the Delta,” said Dr. Veronica Guinn, etiquette and leadership trainer at her own company.
Allen said she hopes women in this group are inspired by the program and one another.
“It means a lot to be a part of this program that gives women the tools to be effective leaders in their communities. The fact that I was chosen shows that someone saw something in me that I am ready to share,” said Jessica Jefferson, a professional counselor at Marion Seventh Grade Academy.
Dr. Carlitta Moore, vice chancellor for access and institutional engagement, spoke to the group about mentorship, knowing their worth, and self-confidence.
“There are a lot of people who could have been sitting in this room and they chose you. There is a reason you are here. If you don’t see it, you need to start seeing it,” said Moore.
“Being selected for this program is an honor for me. To have A-State recognize my leadership potential in the rural Delta inspires me to continue my work in communities,” said Heather Baker, vice president of clinical services at Arisa Health.
Fake it until you make it was part of the message from Dr. Katerina Hill, associate professor of marketing.
“When you are out of your comfort zone, you grow and then you are more confident and comfortable because your comfort zone has grown,” said Hill, who also serves as director of the R.M. “Bob” Wood Sales Leadership Center.
Organizers say they hope this program continues to grow and expand the network of female leaders across the Delta.
"I see the program continuing to expand its reach across the Delta and reaching women leaders who yearn to become part of a talent pipeline to engage in collaborations across the region to support community growth and development," added Jones-Branch.
"I want women in the Arkansas Delta to know that this program is designed to empower and equip them with the skills, confidence and connections to excel in leadership roles. It's not just about professional development, it's about building a community of women who can move the Delta region forward,” Allen concluded.
Sessions this year will continue in El Dorado, Batesville, Searcy, Blytheville and Little Rock.
