The panel at the Inspired Women Luncheon Professional Development dove deep into what it means to “Lift as you Climb.” Each panelist was able to share their unique career experiences of how they have benefitted their community as they climbed the ladder of success.
Our returning moderator, Cindy Salter, interviewed this year’s panelists: Judge Mary Tom Curnutt, Tarrant County, Sharn Barbarin, CEO, Medical City Arlington, and Dr. Jennifer Cowley, UTA President. Each one of them have the opportunity to touch the hearts of many in their day to day {jobs}, an inspired others to do the same through their insight. The Professional Development panel accompanies the luncheon every year and precedes the main event. It provides a chance for the audience to hear more perspectives from industry leaders in a smaller setting.
After a brief introduction from Cindy Salter, each panelist was prompted to answer a series of questions tying into the theme of “Lift as You Climb.”
Sharn Barbarin also encounters many people in her day to day in the healthcare industry. As CEO, she sets the tone for everyone in Medical City Arlington. She guides those around her in strategic direction, outcomes of clinical quality, and patient experience strategy while assuming administrative responsibility for all aspects of financial operations. In her position, lifting others up has chain reaction. Her influence in the hospital reaches far and wide, as it reflects in the hospitality given to patients during their times of need. Sharn spoke of her time during the early pandemic when restrictions meant that a patient’s family could not be in the room with them. She made the decision to lift up others in their time of need, that no patient would pass away alone and hospital staff would be with and comfort them in their final moments.
Educators lead many throughout their career, and Dr. Jennifer Cowley is an excellent example for many to look up to. Dr. Cowley is a driven individual who was told while she was walking on her own campus when she was in college that she would be the president of a university one day. Since graduating, Dr. Cowley has garnered an impressive CV, leading universities in executive positions while often teaching in the classroom as well. Educators lift others every day as they serve as guides for the next generation. Dr. Cowley’s background in urban development further proves her dedication to the future. By not only caring for the advancement of university at which she works but also the city around it, her inspiration and expertise is sure to leave a remarkable legacy.
We are so thankful to all speakers that shared their story for our professional development. The mark that each woman on this panel makes on this world is incalculable. Every person that hears their stories are sure to find inspiration to lift up others in their own lives.