MissCatholic
Sr. Member
Posts: 2,424
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« on: September 27, 2005, 11:57:56 AM » |
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'I think that even today, the public is not quite as comfortable with female leaders as they are with male leaders. It is still a challenge for women to communicate that they are competent and able to do the job. There have been only a few women who have served as governor or senator relative to the number of men who have been elected to these positions. In the United States Senate, there have been only 27 women who have ever served out of approximately 1,850 individuals — a very small percentage. Likewise, there are very few women running large corporations, although that is changing — thanks, in part, to some of the new Internet startup companies.'
'The challenge for women seeking leadership positions in the public is to communicate that you're competent and able to do the job. So you've got to work a little harder in order to be successful'
'I would encourage all young people to consider public service opportunities. There are some wonderful rewards, whether you're in elective or appointed office. You can have a tremendous impact on writing, executing, or carrying out laws and work on the education system, health care programs, or environmental issues — it's quite exciting. There are great opportunities to meet people, travel, and become engaged in cutting edge issues, whether it's at the local, state, or national level.
'I would encourage young people to become active in extracurricular activities. Young people at all ages, in elementary and second school and on to college, can develop their leadership skills through extracurricular activities. Sports, for example, offers excellent leadership opportunities. I'd certainly encourage young people to stay in school and graduate with at least a college degree. For those who are interested in holding an elective position, having a masters degree in business administration or law can be useful.'
'Just being knowledgeable about the government process is beneficial; civics and social studies are very important. Our government is made up of a representative group of all of our population. Having elected officials with degrees in medicine or teaching can be very valuable — all those experiences are important. Someone who is a nurse before she or he runs for office will bring to the process a unique point of view. What is most important is developing leadership skills and understanding of the way government operates'.
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