March is Women's History Month.  Let's keep it real – one month out of the year should not be the only time we acknowledge women's achievements in our society. Although, for many, it's the only time they pause to think about the role of women and the sacrifices they made to help shape our future.  Nevertheless, this is an opportunity to celebrate the generations of women who have influenced and enriched our nation and community.

Encapsulating briefly, the recognition of Women's History Month started in 1978 by a K - 12 Education Task Force as a weeklong event in Sonoma, California.  Following these events and subsequent explorations, President Jimmy Carter established National Women's History Week on March 8, 1980.  Seven years later, in 1987, Congress acted to make that week a full month.

To that end, it's befitting to acknowledge the three trailblazers who started TEMPO Madison in 1980.  These pioneers are Boo Henderson, Sue Riordan, and Barb Miller.  Their vision was to create an organization that would break down barriers and connect women in executive roles with a common interest in the Madison region.  Clearly, all three founders understood the essence of sustaining viable communities by bolstering the leadership of qualified and talented women.

When creating a community that focuses on empowerment to inspire, encourage, sponsor, and advocate, inherently, we find ourselves inching closer to accomplishing our goals. Research in the Harvard Business Review found that women who have an inner circle of close female contacts are more likely to land executive positions with greater authority and higher pay.  Interestingly, the study did not find the same success for men as it relates to the gender composition of their inner circles.  This illustrates that women professionally advance when we make meaningful connections based on shared interests and goals.

In honor of Women's History Month, I dedicate and celebrate the founders and members of TEMPO Madison because you amplify your voice for those without one, foster inclusive leadership, remain confident amid adversity, and take your seat at the table with unapologetic authenticity.  Most of all, you never let others decide your destiny or define your success.  

Cheers to the remarkable and amazing TEMPO Madison Women!

Leslie Petty

TEMPO Madison President