By Delaware State University
Delaware State University’s Department of Human Services proudly hosted its third annual Women’s Conference, “Leading the Change: Women Shaping a Sustainable Future,” bringing together students, faculty and community leaders for a day of empowerment, dialogue and inspiration.
Held at the Martin Luther King Jr. Student Center, the conference focused on advancing women’s leadership, fostering community and equipping attendees with tools for sustainable personal and professional growth. Through keynote addresses, dynamic panel discussions, and interactive sessions, participants engaged in meaningful conversations centered on equity, leadership and impact.
“This conference reflects the power of Delaware State University at its best,” said Dr. Francine Edwards, associate vice president for administrative services. “This conference is an opportunity to engage students in thoughtful discussions, provide mentoring opportunities with alumni and women in the community who are committed to lifting as they climb and creating pathways for the next generation of leaders. From the fireside chat, panel discussion and keynote, our students were engaged and inspired to keep working to lead the change and contribute to a more sustainable, inclusive future for all women. Each year, this conference reminds me of how important our roles in higher education are.”
The event opened with remarks from Executive Vice President Irene Hawkins, followed by Delaware State University First Lady Tara Allen, who set the tone for a day dedicated to elevating women’s voices and experiences.
A featured highlight of the conference included a reflective dialogue on women’s leadership, legacy and sustainable impact. The session featured Charlotte B. Barnes, vice president of human resources, as the fireside guest, moderated by Pamela Mosley Gresham, associate vice president of human resources.
The conference also featured a panel discussion titled “Intergenerational Pathways to Sustainability,” showcasing diverse perspectives from leaders across education, public service and athletics, including:
- Dr. Jennifer Alexander, Director of Talent Development, Colonial School District
- Chelsia Ivee Douglas, Fellow for Excellence in Leadership, Biden Institute
- Dr. Fareeda Griffith, Vice Provost, Delaware State University
- Dr. Debbie Harrington, First Vice Chair, DSU Board of Trustees
- Kenya Lee Sloan, DSU Women’s Wrestling Coach and Author
- Icart Galumette, DSU Women’s Wrestling Team
The keynote address was delivered by Yvonne Deadwyler, president and CEO of the New Castle County Chamber of Commerce, who spoke on leadership, innovation and the role of women in shaping sustainable futures.
The conference concluded with a powerful global dialogue on women’s equity and empowerment titled “Global Society’s Role in Gender Equality.” Panelists included:
- Iesha D. Brown, Chief Impact and Engagement Officer, Soroptimist International of the Americas
- Dr. Makda Maru, Assistant Professor of Political Science, Delaware State University
- Sgt. Brittanni Barnes, Wilmington Police Department
- Mariah Queen, Political Science Major
- Alexandria Edwards, Law Studies Major
- Dr. Gwen Scott Jones, Dean, College of Health and Behavioral Sciences and School of Graduate, Adult and Extended Studies
This year’s conference reinforced Delaware State University’s commitment to cultivating inclusive leadership and creating spaces where women can thrive, lead and drive meaningful change.
About Delaware State University
Delaware State University is one of the nation’s premier Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), dedicated to providing high-quality, accessible education to a diverse student population. Founded in 1891, the University continues to be a hub for innovation, research and community impact.