Women In Leadership

Women in Leadership: Celebrating Purpose-Driven Leadership

The Macomb County Chamber’s inaugural Women in Leadership event brought together leaders from business, nonprofits and civic organizations for an inspiring evening of connection, learning and celebration at MacRay Harbor. The event highlighted the power of purpose-driven leadership and gave women leaders a platform to share their voices. Attendees enjoyed timely insights, engaging conversations and opportunities to network. 

The evening featured a keynote address by Martha Mayhood Mertz, Founder of ATHENA International, whose organization has honored more than 8,200 women and their mentors worldwide over the past four decades. Mertz shared reflections on the importance of leadership, mentorship and lifting others as we rise. She emphasized creating pathways for the next generation of women leaders while remaining authentic to one’s purpose.

The event also included a panel of former ATHENA Award recipients who offered their perspectives on leadership development, the challenges women face in executive roles and lessons learned along the way. Panelists included:

  • Susan Blanchard, President, Anton, Sowerby & Associates (moderator)
  • Karen Bathanti, Senior Human Resources Consultant, PeopleMost
  • Elizabeth Darga, Undersheriff, Macomb County
  • Lauren Falzone, Founder, beautiLofts
  • Diane Laffey, Coach and Educator

The panel also discussed the importance of resilience, managing career transitions and mentorship in supporting long-term professional growth.

Adding another dimension to the evening, Traci Smith, CEO of Macomb County Community Mental Health, delivered a special presentation on wellness strategies for women leaders, underscoring the importance of balance, boundary-setting and self-care in high-impact careers.

Attendees also enjoyed networking, strolling hors d’oeuvres and the chance to support women-owned vendors featured at the event.

The Chamber extends sincere appreciation to the event sponsors who made this event possible: Accident Fund Insurance Company of America, Consumers Energy, First State Bank and SMART Bus System.