By Christina Dravis

Presenters: Gigi Smith, Karima Holmes, Angela Bowen, Athena Butler and Mary Sue Robey

This session was presented by a panel of five trailblazing women in public safety communications with a total of 126 years of experience. Geared towards other women in public safety communications, this session discussed various challenges faced by women working in public safety communications, offered advice on how and why to become involved in local and national associations such as APCO, encouraged women to take on more leadership roles and explained the importance of networking with other female public safety professionals. Based on the nearly 100% attendance, these are topics other women want to talk about.

Although each panelist agreed on the importance of maintaining balance and wellness, each has different practices to achieve these. One practices yoga and doesn’t skimp on sleep, one spends time with her grandson on weekends, one became a fitness instructor after losing a lot of weight and another takes an hour a day doing something she loves, like cooking or gardening.

Recognizing that most women hate conflict, Gigi Smith encouraged participants to have courage. “Have those conversations. Be direct. Be assertive. And carry your confidence.”

This presentation will be repeated Tuesday at 1:30 p.m.