Tune into Leadership with Theresa Dubiel
This month, our team connected with MI ATHENA Board Member, Theresa Dubiel, senior VP of member experience and business development at one of our dedicated sponsors, Lake Trust. Discussing all things leadership, Theresa provides a glimpse into what this important topic means to her, the lessons she’s learned throughout her career and why MI ATHENA matters to a woman’s professional and personal growth. Check out her people-focused thoughts below:
What qualities make an effective leader to you?
- It takes a mixture of being authentic and having humility with the balance of business acumen. I consider myself a servant leader; the opportunity to work toward the greater good and lift each other in a trusting culture, where diversity of thoughts is encouraged and fostering leadership in others.
What important attributes do you believe women bring to a leadership role?
- I believe women leaders bring both grace and grit. The focus on leading successfully with confidence and embracing any challenge they face; their passion and perseverance guides their ongoing pursuant of goals. Also, embracing teamwork and collaboration to help many grow and develop.
If you could have learned something sooner about your leadership style, or leadership in general, what would it be?
- Be a great listener. Listen to hear the message, don’t listen to solve a problem or answer the question. Dig deeper and ask more open-ended questions to learn more about people, what they are feeling and how you can help them at times self-discover.
What have you learned specifically about leadership throughout your time participating in MI ATHENA events?
- I’m always excited for MI ATHENA events, they are uplifting and motivating. It’s so awesome to hear about the journey of women leaders. Their triumph and their struggles. It’s a safe place to dive deeper into topics; that help women grow. Overall, the MI ATHENA community continues to provide a channel and resources through their events to help women continue to reach their potential and their dreams.
Why does a community, like MI ATHENA, matter to someone’s leadership journey?
- MI ATHENA provides a place for women to “Lean In”; help each other grow, learn and provides resources. It’s a dynamic organization with sound principles in leadership to grow both in your career and in life. It promotes women to inspire to be their best with the fellowship of many supporters.
If you have questions or would like more information on MI ATHENA, please contact Leah Robinson at lrobinson@michamber.com.