In April, our organization had the pleasure of welcoming a group of visitors from Uzbekistan who were participating in the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP). The purpose of their project was to focus on the leadership of women in civil society development. During their two days of appointments in Pensacola, the delegates were able to meet with a variety of local resources and important female leaders.
The first day of appointments began with an introduction to the local area by City Council President Maren DeWeese who shared with the visitors the challenges of women’s participation in politics at the local level. The changing make-up of the American family and the effort it takes to balance a personal and professional life were also addressed. At this meeting, each visitor received honorary citizen certificate from the City of Pensacola.
At the Pensacola Museum of Art, the group met with Raven McBride who serves as the Director of Education and Outreach. The Museum has a long-standing tradition of reaching out to those who are underserved in the community and offers workshops, art classes, and learning resources to community members and educational organizations. The meeting also showcased outreach programs available to local children in arts education.
After the appointment with the Pensacola Museum of Art, the group met with members of Pretty in Pink from Pensacola and Washington High Schools and observed them mentoring younger students with the Boys and Girls Club of Escambia County. Pretty in Pink aims to empower teenage girls and helps them identify and overcome issues and problems in their lives. The advisor of Pretty in Pink, Katrina Washington, joined the group to discuss the impact of the organization in the community.
The next day began with a visit to the PACE Center for Girls. The PACE Center is a community-based, gender-responsive prevention, diversion, and early-intervention program. The group met with Sandie Liebenguth, instructor from the school, who discussed with the visitors how the organization helps at-risk girls. In addition, the group toured the center and spoke with students who participate in the program.
The group had its final appointment at the University of West Florida with Rosemary Hays-Thomas, the Director of the Women’s Studies Program. Dr. Hays-Thomas discussed the program and introduced other faculty and students to the visitors who continued the conversation during a walking tour of the campus.
Thank you to Dr. Jack Kichler and to the other members of our community who welcomed the group and helped them feel at home.
