*The remarkable women within our local community are proof that the power to change begins at home. They have continued to demonstrate that true leadership is paved with determination, resilience, and vision. The women we are featuring here are not just leaders but innovators, advocates, and changemakers. These community leaders share Horizon’s vision and passion for supporting our community and eliminating the stigma. *
Elizabeth Mauro – CEO, Endeavor Health Services
Cambria Daniels – Project Director, BestSelf Behavioral Health
Melinda DuBois – Executive Director, Mental Health Advocates
Who are some women that have inspired you, and why?
“The matriarchs in my family who forged their own way and encouraged me to do so as well. My mother was fierce and passionate about what she believed in, and role modeled that for me. It was important to have something to believe in and to lead a life of service.”
– Elizabeth Mauro
“I am always inspired by women who are living with mental health struggles and are working hard to decrease barriers and stigma. Women like Glennon Doyle, author of the book Untamed, and the co-host of the podcast, “We Can Do Hard Things.” Glennon talks about her recovery from anorexia, addiction, and depression with humor and humility while also being real. Another woman who inspires me is Jenny Lawson, author of Let’s Pretend This Never Happened and owner of Nowhere Books. Jenny struggles with treatment resistant depression and is incredibly funny and human. Both authors write and post about their struggles in ways that are inspiring and hopeful. They acknowledge that the struggles are real, and there are no easy solutions. Healing is a life-long journey.
I’m always inspired by my daughter. Her honesty, her sassiness, her strong opinions, her independence. She has taught me to be more patient, to listen without judgement, and to provide unconditional support. It’s been an honor to watch her grow and become a strong woman who refuses to put up with any nonsense.”
– Melinda DuBois
“Although there are many women that have inspired me, I would have to highlight the late Shirley Chisholm and Joan Ruth Bader Ginsburg. There is a quote of Shirley Chisholm’s that resonates with me, ‘you don’t make progress by standing on the sidelines whimpering and complaining. You make progress by implementing ideas.’
Shirley Chisholm was the first African American woman elected to congress and the first women and African American to run for presidency of the United States. Ruth Bader Ginsburg was the first Jewish woman and only second women to serve on the Court while being an advocate for gender equality and women’s rights. The tenacity, bravery, and determination despite the odds to make those accomplishments is inspiring and speaks to my work ethic. People can complain ad nauseam, but complaining does not yield a result. It takes courage to take action, therefore I appreciate the legacy of both women who paved the way as an example for others.”
– Cambria Daniels
How do you mentor and support the next generation of female leaders?
“A key component to support and mentor the next generation of female leaders is representation. People need to see themselves in this work so they can then see the potential and future opportunities. Through conversations, guidance, inspiration, and encouragement we can decrease the barriers around navigating the system of education and open the door to the various options available to foster leadership skills. Through supervision and conversations with staff and colleagues I find it important to discuss and help people find their passions and solidify their values. There are a myriad of options in leadership, therefore being able to support the next generation to find fulfillment while they stay true to their values allows them to grow into their leadership dependent on the type of role a person is seeking professionally.”
– Cambria Daniels
How has your perspective on leadership evolved over the years?
“It is much more about developing and building up others to take on leadership roles. It is like a relay race. We each have our section and should do our best to lead as constructively as possible, to grow and develop our mission/agency with integrity and insight and then to pass it on to the next group. In other words, it is not my story, it is our story, and it spans decades and generations.”
– Elizabeth Mauro
-What skills do you believe are essential for effective leadership, at work and in life?
“Throughout my career, I have seen women succeed and others fail. I’ve learned that there are certain skills that I value in leaders. Honesty and humility are important. Authentic leadership is essential. Being vulnerable and owning your mistakes, being human and talking about your own struggles are important skills. Another essential skill is being a lifelong learner. I am constantly reading, listening to podcasts, researching, and learning new things. We always need to learn and grow. And finally, it is important to recognize your strengths and weaknesses. You can’t do everything. Surround yourself with brilliant people who support you. Hire people who are smarter than you. And get out of their way. When we are surrounded by intelligent, supportive, giving individuals we all succeed.”
– Melinda DuBois
*These community leaders have accomplished many milestones and demonstrate the ongoing importance of self-empowerment and supporting one another to build our community. Horizon is proud to be in connection to these incredible women who work to make a difference in our community every day. *