Otselic Valley Central School District

"Don't think you don't make a choice to be where you're at."

"Don't give your power to others."

"You're just as important as anyone else."

"Success is incremental and life long."

The glass slipper won't fit. Find your passion and turn it into your purpose."

"Do what moves you."

Carlie Golden (11th grade) and Josie Guernsey (10th grade), accompanied by Social Studies teacher Jenny Osowski, were among 185 attendees of all ages and in all stages of their careers who came to learn from panelists and speakers at the inaugural Chenango Women's Leadership Conference held at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich.

Our Vikings and other students from DCMO BOCES component districts joined women from all over the county who came to learn and be inspired. “The panels were made up of strong women who were humble and vulnerable as they shared their advice through their stories and experiences,” Mrs. Osowski told us. “The whole day centered around key themes: have courage, be visible, build relationships, get involved, advocate for yourself, and  share your story. Panel topics included Women in Leadership, Women in Wealth, Do What Moves You, and The Power of Many.”

The day started with notebooks and pens to help audience members capture details, none of which were wasted on Carlie, Josie, and Mrs. Osowski. “During the keynote address my teacher’s heart leapt when I looked over and saw both girls listening intently and making note of points that resonated with them,” said Mrs. Osowski. She added that both thought it would be great to bring an event like this to OV girls, and both were excited to get back to school and share what they learned with teachers too. “I know about some of this; we talked about this in class!” 

The event hosted by Commerce Chenango was the outcome of a year’s preparation by planning committee members Mary Branham (Pivotel), Gina Goldman (Alvogen), Julia Miller (Blueox), Jenna Ostrander (Commerce Chenango), Marci Riddell (Norwich Wealth Management), Martha Ryan (DCMO BOCES), Melissa Stagnaro (UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital), and Jen Telesky (NBT Bank). Presenters and panelists represented an array of entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators from all over, including the Women's Business Enterprise Council Metro New York President and CEO Sandra Eberhard, service organization leaders, business owners, and others in banking, real estate, health care, and higher education.

Carlie observed, "The women we listened to were very powerful. Their words and advice have the power to shape a life. I personally felt moved and inspired."

So what’s next? You’ll have to ask Josie and Carlie about how their personal plans for the future have been influenced by what they heard. "My big take away from the day was to 'show up authentically," Josie said, "also, if more girls have a chance to attend something like this, they should go!"

Mrs. Osowski, too, came away with inspiration: “ I want to bring more events like this to our students. The young women in my world are strong, smart, talented, passionate, and just starting to find their voices (even when they feel they aren't). An event like this will show them women who are the same and have found success in several different arenas. More to come!”