Third annual Women of Power Reception held Feb. 13

The Margaret Chase Smith Policy Center and its nonpartisan student program Maine NEW (National Education for Women) Leadership hosted the third annual Women of Power Networking Reception on Feb. 13 at the Senator Inn in Augusta.

Women of Power celebrates those individuals who serve the state of Maine in Augusta and beyond, and those who will become Maine’s future leaders. Maine’s women legislators served as the co-hosts for the event and Gov. Janet Mills was the special guest.

Each year at Women of Power, Maine NEW Leadership recognizes the recipient of the Minerva Award, which is given to a Maine woman leader who exemplifies the values of the program; leadership for the betterment of Maine; a commitment to civil dialogue; and a passion for civic engagement. University of Maine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy presented the 2020 Minerva Award to the Honorable Joyce Maker.

A photo gallery from the event is online.

The proceeds from the Women of Power Networking Reception fund NEW Leadership’s educational program designed to educate and empower young people by giving them the skills necessary to become the next generation of effective civic and political leaders. By participating in Maine NEW Leadership, students gain a greater awareness of their own abilities to lead, their expertise and qualifications to take on a leadership role, as well as the many opportunities for them in civic life and public office. With the skills they learn and the networks they develop, participants are empowered and energized to emerge as leaders.

Each year in June, NEW Leadership hosts a six-day residential undergraduate student leadership training program free of charge for participants. The program includes presentations from politically active women throughout Maine, a visit with women legislators and policy advocates at the State House, and workshops for participants to actively develop leadership skills, such as public speaking, advocacy, and networking. Participants also benefit from the experience of faculty-in-residence, a group of women public leaders who serve as mentors for students throughout their stay.