It’s International Women’s Day, and a time to reflect on wonderful women who have made a difference.
I’ve had so many women who have inspired me, both personally and professionally – probably without even knowing it!
Among them are Secretary Elizabeth Dole, Lydia Beebe, Donna Lucas, Lisa Gable, the late Ellen Tauscher, and Ellie Schafer, who joined me at the Dole Institute 10 years ago for a series on remarkable women.
I am also inspired by many women I’ve worked with in the Chamber world, including Cassandra Walker Pye, Candace Andersen, Renee Morgan, and Karen Stepper.
There are other women who come to mind today who I met through my appointments with Presidents Reagan & Bush, including Secretary Elaine Chao, and her valuable team, which included Karen Czarnecki, Kathie Summers-Grice, and Marlene Colucci, among other remarkable women.
I also admire my cousin, Catherine Bertini, who ran the World Food Program in Rome.
The woman I admire most who is always on my mind is my Mom, Josephine Biviano. She was one of the strongest women I ever knew. She helped to shape me personally and professionally on her time on earth, living authentically as her best self through the Great Depression, 911, and so many moments that impacted the world we live in today.
Josephine was a devoted wife, mother, and community volunteer. I wouldn’t have had a career in politics & government had she not encouraged me to take that job on a local state senate campaign in Upstate New York.
Mom eventually passed from pancreatic cancer. My strength and this post today are in her memory. I donated today to Diane Borrison’s “18 Year Survivor ” team to support Purple Stride Silicon Valley. You can take action today too and I hope you do!