Symposium celebrates women with inspiring tales of their struggles and successes

Nevada Daily Mail

The annual Women's Symposium, March 5, in the Haidee and Allen Center for the Arts, Cottey College, will be a great opportunity for women to relax and network with one another, and to hear inspiring messages on women of success in unusual venues, said symposium chair Sharon Didden.

"These women are truly inspiring. I think this is something that will empower women to say, 'yes, I can,' no matter what their goals and desires are," she said.

Women attending will hear the inspiring tale of a teen gymnast who achieved what many others only dream of -- being an Olympic medalist. Silver medalist Courtney McCool will share her story of "The Road to Athens," and Cottey College alumna Heather Carpenter will tell of another type of success -- that of women mentoring others as they seek their own success through education.

Women attending will be inspired, and can take that inspiration with them as they seek their goals at home, at work, in education -- wherever their goals lie, Didden explained.

The event begins with registration and coffee at 9 a.m., in the lobby, where women can mingle and network with others, then continues as McCool and Carpenter share their messages of hope, commitment to goals and dedication with others, promoters said.

Afterwards, the day continues with lunch at Cottey's Raney dining room, where local women will share their stories with attendees as well.

"This will be a very enriching event, one that celebrates women of many roles. That's what the women's symposium is all about," Didden said.

Sponsors have also provided gifts to be given away in a drawing to attendees at the symposium.

Sponsored by the Nevada Daily Mail, Cottey College, Aquila, Soroptimist International of Nevada, Wal-Mart and Evergreen Memorial Chapel, the event features women from ordinary backgrounds who are doing extraordinary things in their lives, and focuses on giving women in particular the inspiration to achieve their goals.

Tickets are still available for the event for $25, and may be purchased by calling Cottey College, at (417) 667-8181, by 3 p.m. on Friday.