CSM Conference Brings Women Together to Realize and Empower their Professional Goals

Women from across the region gathered their talents and strengths together Saturday, March 22, at College of Southern Maryland’s (CSM’s) first WomenLead conference, that was inspired by a CSM communication student, developed in partnership with students, and saw students serving on panels. Approximately 175 people attended the conference entitled ‘Purpose-Driven Vision: Move from Ideation to Action’ that set out to empower and energize women entrepreneurs and nonprofit leaders during Women’s History Month.    

CSM President Dr. Yolanda Wilson kicked off the conference, held at the La Plata Campus, by welcoming the attendees.   

“As women, it is such a gift when we can embrace our sisterhood in a way that affirms and uplifts each other,” she said. “By supporting each other’s businesses, celebrating each other’s accomplishments, and recognizing each other’s strengths, we reinforce that a win for one is a win for all.  

“There’s something incredibly special about women who eagerly become allies (and the men who join us) to encourage, motivate, and celebrate one another’s achievements – as well as lift those around us who are struggling to find their way,” she added.   

Wilson thanked CSM Associate Professor of Communications Tamara Gibbs-Franklin and Dr. Kandace Foreman, CSM assistant professor, for creating and fostering the conference.   

“Our faculty, students, and staff are here today hosting our first WomenLead Conference during Women’s History Month, because these two amazing women put their gifts into motion for each of us to grow. They didn’t rest on their vision – but rather they leaned into their vision,” she shared.    

The conference’s keynote speaker was Mia Williams, founder of Colors of Her Success, a professional networking organization. Williams offered a range of advice at the conference on how to follow one’s professional dreams and goals in life.   

“No matter how big, scary, or crazy your dream sounds, it is possible,” she said. “Trust your internal compass, filter your ideas to make sure they’re worth the effort, move from idea to action without getting stuck, fall in love with the work, not just the outcome, build endurance, because the journey will test you. You can and will bring your vision to life,” she advised.  

Following her remarks, several breakout sessions were held throughout the day, covering topics of ideation, building and action.  

"There is more than one way to learn,” Gibbs-Franklin said after the conference. “WomenLead was inspired by a student with a dream – but not the confidence to pursue it, and this got me thinking about a one-stop shop experience for all students and women in our community. [So] the conference was inspired by a student, developed in partnership with students, and led by students. Combined with the depth and breadth of CSM's resources, WomenLead is a strategic collaboration that affirms the purpose of a community college."   

“It was truly a remarkable experience,” shared CSM student DaShawn Rustin, who is president of CSM’s Women of Excellence and was a WomenLead presenter. “Witnessing the evolution of WomenLead, from its initial concept to a fully realized event, was incredibly inspiring and a true reflection of its mission. The conference's success is a testament to the power of united, passionate, and educated women. We couldn't have achieved such heights without the phenomenal leadership of Mrs. Gibbs-Franklin and Dr. Foreman, who worked tirelessly.”    

“WomenLead also provided significant opportunities to expand our professional networks, both within and beyond the CSM community,” Rustin continued. “The real-time connections formed during the conference were a significant highlight. This event and others like it are vital for the Southern Maryland community, and I'm honored to have been part of its beginning. WomenLead's future is bright, and I'm excited to see its continued growth and impact. For anyone, especially students, who were not able to attend this year I would implore them to take up the opportunity next year.”  

“The WomenLead conference was not only motivating it was also inspirational,” echoed CSM student Imani Spencer, who serves as the president of the CSM Business and Accounting Club. “It was an opportunity for women to uplift one another and give each other advice and the proper steps to become successful. I think everyone who went to the conference walked away with a valuable piece of knowledge and was able to think about things a little differently now and start taking a different approach when it comes to certain things.”   

"WomenLead underscores the college's ongoing commitment to student-centered excellence and ensuring open access to educational opportunities within our community,” Foreman said after the conference. “We are thrilled to share 22 registrants expressed interest in learning more about our academic programs, with at least one individual completing an admissions application. This event is helping us foster meaningful connections that support both students and the community in pursuing their dreams."   

Wilson also thanked the event’s sponsors: Educational Systems Federal Credit Union, The Miller Center for Leadership, CSM Student Life organization – including the Women of Excellence, CSM Business Club, the CSM Foundation, and funding from the Dr. Maureen Murphy Distinguished Professorship for Equity in Education.  

To see photos from the event, please visit Zenfolio | College of Southern Maryland Photos | WomenLead Conference 2025