International Women's Day spotlight: 5 Chicago dynamos making a difference

What exactly is International Women's Day and why is it so important? On March 8, we women get a day all to ourselves to celebrate our social, economic, cultural and political achievements. This global holiday has occurred for well over a century with the first IWD gathering taking place in 1911 and supported by over a million people. As the saying goes, "we've come a long way, baby." 

I've never experienced a time when I wasn't allowed to try to achieve whatever I set my heart to, so I can't imagine what it must've been like having to fight for the rights we all enjoy now. We are living in an enlightened age but it certainly wasn't always this way. 

Women like Sojourner Truth, Susan B. Anthony, Ida B. Wells and Eleanor Roosevelt, and so many others, paved the way so we can enjoy freedom today like never before. They were pioneers in the international women's movement who green-lighted a number of firsts for women and allowed us all to stand on their shoulders. 

Marie Curie became the first woman to ever win the Nobel Prize and the first person to win it twice--for physics in 1903 and chemistry in 1911; Madam C. J. Walker (born Sarah Breedlove) was one of the first women in the world to earn more than $1 million through the business she founded in 1910, the Madam C. J. Walker Manufacturing Company; Amelia Mary Earhart was the first woman aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean; Sally Ride became the first American woman in space;  Lydia Taft became the first legal woman voter in colonial America in 1756; Edith Wharton was the first woman to win a Pulitzer Prize, 1921. ("The Age of Innocence"); Katherine Graham became the first woman to become a Fortune 500 CEO in 1972; Janet Guthrie is the first woman to drive in the Indy 500 in 1977; Aretha Franklin, “The Queen of Soul,” became the first woman elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on January 3, 1987 and Kathryn Bigelow was the first woman to win an Oscar for Best Director, 2010. ("The Hurt Locker"). 

The five following local leaders, like the ground-breaking women above, have been making a difference in their communities for years. So, in honor of International Women's Day, we are proud to salute Susan Abrams (Illinois Holocaust Museum President/CEO); Melody Spann Cooper (Chair/CEO Midway Broadcasting Corp.); Maria Doughty (President/CEO The Chicago Network); Dorri McWhorter (President and CEO of YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago) and Tracie Morris (U.S. Chief Human Resources Officer & Chief Inclusion Officer BMO Harris Bank).

Below are their thoughtful, inspiring words of wisdom with advice and tips on how we can all move forward together to make a difference: 

Susan Abrams has been the CEO of the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center since 2014, with more than 25 years of nonprofit, for-profit and business management experience.

Share 5 tips for women trying to find their way in the world now.

1) Focus on the journey and not just on an end goal. You’ll learn from every experience. 2) Have multiple things that fulfill you and make your life rewarding. 3) Take smart risks, but always have plans B, C, and D. 4) Ask for what you want so that others can help you. 5) Be there for others, and cultivate a support group for yourself.

With all the problems and struggles in the world now, what’s lifting you up?

You must be an optimist to work at a Holocaust Museum. I am particularly inspired by young people – especially the students we work with at the Museum during Student Leadership days, who are determined to positively impact their schools and communities. I’m also inspired by our Holocaust Survivors, my colleagues, and others in the Museum family who share our passion for the Museum’s mission to “remember the past and transform the future.” Believe it or not, they make me laugh every day. I think we’re leaving a lot to future generations, but I am optimistic they’ll meet the challenge.

Finish this sentence: "In the next 5 years, I would like ... "

I would like to see a kinder, less divisive world, with greater mutual respect between all people -- a world where “Never Again” is a reality.

Melody Spann Cooper is Chairman of Midway Broadcasting Corporation, a best-in-class African- American owned media boutique whose properties include radio and interactive platforms, including WVON 1690AM, the oldest Black-oriented radio station in Chicago. 

Share a women's empowerment moment that inspired you.

I am a huge history buff and recently spent time exploring the work of the late Congresswoman Shirley Chisolm.  She was the first woman to declare her candidacy for the President of the United States and the first Black female congress person in the US.  I was moved by her journey and by the boldness she displayed as she navigated the halls of congress in the late 60s. She once said, “If they don't give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” She was unbossed!

Who are your role models and why? 

So many women have made an imprint on my life, but I will acknowledge my mother during Women's History Month. My mother was a homemaker who never attended college. Her life's mission was raising her children. Her biggest lesson was delivered in the simplest of ways. She taught us the importance of excellence. Whether she was cooking, ironing, whatever her task...it was delivered most often to perfection. I once saw her throw an entire cake away over Thanksgiving because her frosting didn't turn out right. She didn't believe in shortcuts and felt hard work always paid off. If I am in any way successful it's because of my mother's drive to have her children pursue excellence. She made it sacred, as if we were honoring God.

Share 5 tips for women trying to find their way in the world now.

1) Beauthentically you. It's the role you were born to play. Own her! Trust me, people know bad actors. 2)  Learn to play as hard as you work. 3) Give more than you get. The universe will always make sure you have an abundance. 4) If  your dreams/goals/vision do not scare you, you're not thinking big enough. 5) Treat people well. Even the ones you don't particularly care for. They may come in handy. Remember, there are no permanent enemies.  

What was the best advice you ever received?

A friend's father once said..."You only get one life, and if you live it well enough, you won't need another one."

With all the problems and struggles in the world now, what's lifting you up? 

My faith keeps me lifted and inspired. God is still in charge and is always there to help fix our mess.  

Finish this sentence: "My wish for young women growing up now is ..."

Equal pay and opportunity.

Maria Salterio Doughty joined The Chicago Network as President and CEO in April 2020. Prior to coming to the Network, she was the Director of Public Policy and Regulatory Examinations and Corporate Counsel for Allstate Insurance Company. 

Share a women's empowerment moment that inspired you.

Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment’s ratification in 2020 was truly momentous. It was particularly moving to learn about the sacrifices made by women to gain the right to vote. So many suffered physical, emotional, and social abuse for their actions. These women are an inspiration to all and a reminder of the importance of voting and its critical role in our democracy.   

Who are your role models and why?

My role models are my parents. They taught me perseverance, independence, resiliency, and adaptability. I am the daughter of Italian immigrants. I spoke no English until I started kindergarten and my parents, two of the smartest people I know, had little formal education. With the language barriers, they could not assist me with homework. But they believed in me, encouraged my strong work ethic, and worked to provide me with every opportunity they could. I am in awe of their sacrifices when I consider the courage and determination that it took them to come to this incredible country and start a new life. 

Share 5 tips for women trying to find their way in the world now.

1) Listen to and follow your instinct, even if it seems risky at the time. 2) Never burn any bridges. 3) Nurture your network. 4) When challenged, pause and be thoughtful in your response or reaction. Time usually provides clarity and wisdom. 5) Live in the here and now but take the time to reflect and plan for what you want next, whether professionally or personally.

What was the best advice you ever received?

Be true to yourself. This timeless advice led to the creation of my personal motto: honor and learn from the past; live and embrace the present; and expand and improve the future.  

With all the problems and struggles in the world now, what's lifting you up?

Family, faith, gratitude for my blessings, and the knowledge that I can use my voice and actions to be a force for good.     

Finish this sentence: "My wish for young women growing up now is..."

That they love themselves and have the confidence that to take the risks that will propel them to realizing their dreams.

Dorri McWhorter became President and CEO of YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago in August 2021. Prior to joining the YMCA, Dorri served for 8 years as the CEO of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago. 

What does International Women's Day mean to you?

It's a moment where we get to acknowledge that significance of women's contributions to society globally! We get to remind each other of the shared experiences of women as we are too often marginalized no matter what part of the world we live in.

Who are your role models and why?

I have too many to name. I respect so many woman who have laid the pathways for so many other women to show up. Christie Hefner, Michelle Collins, Christine Lagarde, Candace Jordan, Joyce Winnecke, Ursula Burns, Martine Rothblatt, Mary Dillon...and I could go on! I love that there are so many amazing women that have blazed trails for us! I'm not ashamed to say that I felt faint when I met Christine Lagarde and cried when I met Martine Rothblatt!

Share 5 tips for women trying to find their way in the world now.

1) Be You! 2) Trust your instincts, we all had to figure it out! 3) Ask for help. 4) Support other women. 5) Be kind to yourself and others.

What was the best advice you ever received?

My dad said, "Remember, nobody is better than you ... but you're no better than anybody." It helped me to always stay grounded.

If you weren't working in the role you are in now, what other profession would you choose?

I love my portfolio approach to work and doing the things I love. I love being a socially conscious business leader that has leveraged my accounting background to work with impact businesses like non-profits and corporate boards. But I would have also loved to be an architect! I love design!

What would you do differently if you could? Any regrets?

No regrets! I don't believe in making "mistakes" or having any regrets. I refer to mistakes as unplanned learning opportunities and I don't regret the ways I have learned. They have made me who I am today.

With all the problems and struggles in the world now, what's lifting you up?

I love humanity and as long as we are surrounded by other good people, I believe anything is possible.

Finish this sentence: "In the next 5 years, I would like ..."

To celebrate the impact that we have had at YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago by growing the organization has had on Chicagoland!

Finish this sentence: "My wish for young women growing up now is...."

That they know that their perspective and persistence will absolutely make the world better for women and girls everywhere!

Tracie Morris is the U.S. Chief Human Resources and Diversity and Inclusion Officer for BMO Financial Group. She oversees the strategic and operational governance for the Human Resources (HR) organization. Tracie also leads the BMO Financial Group U.S. focus on Diversity and Inclusion. 

What does International Women's Day mean to you?

For me, International Women’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. This globally recognized day allows us to reflect on our collective accomplishments and to raise awareness about women’s equality. Personally, I take inspiration and try to emulate women who have paved the way and act together to accelerate women’s equality.

Share a women's empowerment moment that inspired you.

I am inspired by the notorious leadership from Ruth Bader Ginsburg, former U.S. Supreme Court Justice. Her leadership and unwavering stance towards advancing gender equity and women’s rights is something I draw on for courage and inspiration. Her fortitude to dismantle gender discrimination, leading by example and enhancing the lives of women continues to guide me in the workplace as a woman of color. Her contributions, including helping women build their own wealth, and providing access to contraceptives, equitable health care and treatment options empowers me to keep these priorities in mind as we collectively try to break down systemic discrimination and barriers for women. While Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a Supreme Court Justice, she elevated her position, locking arms together to advance the lives of women. Her work is evident every day, a living and breathing example that continues to inspire me. 

Who are your role models and why?

Condoleezza Rice, former Secretary of State, Michelle Obama, former First Lady, and businesswoman Angela Ahrendts. All three women have distinct characteristics but undeniable qualities that make them trailblazers in a male dominated world. They’ve carved out space for themselves and use their position to advance the lives of others. 

Share 5 tips for women trying to find their way in the world now.

For women trying to find their way in the world, make sure you are clear about your 5 P’s. First, find your Purpose in life and use this to motivate your work and contributions to the world. Two, lead with Passion in all that you do and use this this energy to inspire others along the way. Three, keep People first. My grandma Viola always says, “It takes nothing to be kind, nothing” and this has a direct impact on how people treat you as well. Four, focus on your Priorities to stay on course, and five, have Perseverance, because with life comes challenges and setbacks but you must always remember to know your worth and keep moving forward.

What was the best advice you ever received?

My father truly leads by example and provides me with the best advice. He says, “Servitude is the price you pay for your ticket on earth, you have to pay it forward.”  

If you weren't working in the role you are in now, what other profession would you choose? 

I have a deep passion for giving back and being of service to others. If I wasn’t working in my current role, I would serve as the Head of a non-profit board that advocates for the advancement and development of people in underserved areas and share my personal story with others. I’d also spend more time volunteering, taking a stance against child trafficking to ensure the safety and protection of victims.

What would you do differently if you could? Any regrets?

The lessons I’ve learned at every phase of my life have been invaluable and helped make me who I am today. Important life lessons have taught me to develop a strong sense of self and to be clear about my 5 p’s, purpose, passion, people, priorities, and perseverance. I love this quote: “You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world's problems at once but don't ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.” - Michelle Obama

With all the problems and struggles in the world now, what's lifting you up?

The last two years have highlighted deep inequities in the racial, health and economic disparities for women and people of color. We’ve witnessed social unrest and political strife, but I found that we, as a collective people, are better together. 

Finish this sentence: "In the next 5 years, I would like ..."

More women in CEO positions, women occupying Board of Director seats, workplace opportunities, support of women-owned businesses and increasing STEM programs for girls.

Finish this sentence: "My wish for young women growing up now is ..."

My wish for young women is to truly strive and push yourself to reach your fullest potential. Challenge the status quo and don’t pull up a chair, build your seat at the table. Bring forward your creativity and energy and be your authentic self with fresh ideas. Don’t be afraid to change the narrative!