Three phenomenal women shared one common theme during the New York State Association for Women in Administration’s (NYSAWA) annual virtual meetup: lift yourself up and you’ll empower those around you to share their own strengths.
Close to 140 education trailblazers joined the NYSAWA Celebrates Phenomenal Women virtual event on Tuesday, Feb. 3. Participants heard from Charmele Christy, Hofstra University’s Dean of Students, Dr. Nyree Dixon, Executive Director of Student Support and Operations at New York City Community School District 29, Dr. Aurelia Henriquez, Superintendent of Port Chester Public Schools, and Lynne Rutnik, District Superintendent of Wayne-Finger Lakes BOCES.
Charmele Christy opened the event with her keynote address, “You Are Who You Think You Are.” She encouraged attendees to reflect on who they are when they aren’t shrinking to meet someone else’s expectations. She acknowledged that women empowerment is collective.
“Every time you advocate for yourself, every time you support another woman, you help shape what is possible for those who come next,” Christy said.
Dr. Nyree Dixon followed, sharing her story of rising through the ranks thanks to the support of family, friends, and mentors. Dixon echoed Christy’s sentiment that there is nothing helpful about shrinking yourself so that others won’t feel insecure.
“As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same,” added Dixon. “Your core values show up in all that you do.”
Dr. Aurelia Henriquez encouraged attendees to embrace failure as a stepping stone and a necessary part of their journey. She acknowledged that women face more expectations and more barriers in the workplace, and leading with emotional intelligence helps break down some of those walls. Practicing positive self talk, active listening, and self care have all helped Henriquez reach the position she’s in today.
“Our environments shape who we become; let’s be sure we surround ourselves with those who lift us up and not be afraid to step away from those who tear us down,” Henriquez said.
Lynn Rutnik closed the evening with the advice to stay invested in where you’re going rather than where you’ve been. She shared her belief that the role of a leader is to inspire hope in those around them. If you’re a leader and realize there’s nobody following your example, you need to ask your circle of trust what you can do to be better. She encouraged participants to lift others as they rise.
“Your comeback is more important than your setback,” Rutnik shared.
The tone of the evening was hopeful, with speakers urging women to consider that together, they are powerful beyond measure. Each leader encouraged women to embrace their strength to help create a legacy of empowerment.
Before the event closed, NYSAWA leadership announced the dates for its annual conference. This year, the conference will be held on July 7-8 in Ithaca. Members are encouraged to submit presentation proposals for the 2026 conference centered on the theme, “Lead Forward, Lift Others!” You can find more details on how to submit a proposal here.