Weatherhead Women in Business empowers local high school students through leadership symposium

Members of Weatherhead Women in Business partnered with Saint Joseph Academy in March to help inspire and mentor the next generation of women leaders during the school’s Women’s Leadership Symposium. 

The event brought together approximately 100 high school students for a day focused on leadership, confidence and future career pathways. During the symposium, the executive team from Weatherhead Women in Business led a senior session designed to support students as they prepare for college and begin considering their professional goals. 

“Our session focused on confidence, academic success, personal growth and navigating the transition from high school to college,” said Jules Dotson, president of the organization and a part-time MBA student at Case Western Reserve University. 

Throughout the session, the students shared personal experiences and practical advice about leadership, involvement on campus and building confidence in professional spaces. The event also gave local students an opportunity to ask questions about college life and connect directly with women pursuing careers and education in business. 

The executive board of Women in Business shared their perspectives with the students at Saint Joseph Academy.

According to Dotson, the symposium aligned closely with the organization’s mission to support and empower women in leadership while creating meaningful connections within the broader Cleveland community. 

Members of the organization also created custom Weatherhead Women in Business stickers featuring both Weatherhead School of Management and university branding for attendees to take home as a reminder of the experience and their connection to the university. 

For the members involved, the event was equally impactful. By mentoring younger students and sharing their own journeys, the Women in Business team strengthened their own leadership and communication skills while demonstrating the importance of community engagement. 

The partnership highlighted Weatherhead’s continued commitment to supporting young women as they prepare for college, leadership opportunities and future careers. Through events like the Women’s Leadership Symposium, students are able to create lasting connections while encouraging the next generation to pursue their ambitions with confidence.