By Julee Prefer, PWH Chair 2017-2018
A reflection of the First PWH Leadership Summit
What an unprecedented time for Professional Women in Healthcare. The Inaugural PWH Leadership Summit, held in Minneapolis in June, was truly an event to remember. This educational event combined impactful leadership development with enjoyable networking for all 175 attendees, whether aspiring leaders, managers or executives.
During the two-day event, the medical distribution industry came together for the first time to focus on creating and developing strong leaders for the industry. Attendees were able to begin new relationships and build upon current ones during receptions and networking sessions. The carefully curated program provided a variety of ways to learn and engage. Based upon the evaluations PWH has already conducted, and testimonials received, attendees left as better leaders, ready to challenge themselves … refocused on professional development. Some of the feedback we received included:
“The speakers were excellent, and the topics were extremely relevant.”
“I was amazed at the level of enthusiasm and the extent of engagement from all of the attendees.”
“The summit was a success and exceeded my expectations.”
The Summit kicked off with the PWH version of TED Talks called Leadership Insights. Respected leaders within the healthcare industry shared their vision on current topics, such as John Baumann, President and CEO of Midmark Corporation; Dr. Dannellia Green, Director of Supplier Diversity of Owens & Minor; Joan Eliasek, President Extended Care Sales of McKesson and more. Topics included the leader’s role in establishing a thriving organization, building and fostering diverse and inclusive corporate cultures, and understanding the process and skills needed when transitioning to new roles.
After in-depth breakout sessions, interactive networking opportunities, and a lot of great food, the PWH Leadership Summit concluded with high energy and enthusiasm. A panel of four successful executives shared their personal leadership journeys including challenges, disruptions and wisdom they encountered along the way. The day ended with a presentation by nationally recognized speaker, Valorie Burton. It was inspiring to watch as many attendees stepped outside of their comfort zone aiming to reach new heights of fulfillment and accomplishment as they took it all in.
For more detailed takeaways from this year’s Leadership Summit, or information about next year’s Leadership Summit, please visit the PWH website at www.myPWH.org
Joan Eliasek Honored as Leader of Distinction
PWH was honored to present Joan Eliasek with the inaugural Anne Eiting Klamar Leadership Award of Distinction at the PWH Leadership Summit. This award recognizes a woman who has experienced significant growth to become an accomplished leader in our industry. Joan leads by example and is dedicated to making sure the path that she leaves is clear for others to follow. She has worked tirelessly with honor over the years, to build her reputation and overcome obstacles. She is a woman of clear vision who always leads with strength, integrity, dignity and grace. She is a strong supporter of women both within her own company and in our industry as a whole, and is committed to developing those around her.