In honor of Women’s History Month, we are delighted to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women who lead and inspire on Seattle CityClub’s board of directors. As advocates for civic engagement and community empowerment, these dynamic individuals bring a wealth of experience, passion, and diverse perspectives to their roles. In this special blog post, we have the privilege of delving into the personal journeys, insights, and impactful contributions of Seattle CityClub’s female board members. Join us as we celebrate their achievements, reflect on their leadership, and explore their visions for a more inclusive and equitable future.
Jill Jackson, Partner at Monument Advocacy
What message would you like to convey to young women and girls aspiring to leadership roles in civic organizations like Seattle CityClub?
For women and girls aspiring to leadership roles in civic organizations or really any organization my advice would be the same. First, understand that being a leader is extremely rewarding, but also can be extremely challenging. You must be willing to engage in direct conversations, make tough choices and take the high road when others go low. You must inspire people to join together to reach common goals. You have to be comfortable sometimes operating in periods of scarcity while being a responsible steward of funds in the best of times. If you can see that leadership is about more than being in charge and you still really want to aim for the stars then aim for the stars! I’ve reached my professional goals by thinking ahead to where I want to be in a few years and then pushing toward that place in my work and volunteering every day. Leading teams has been a significant part of my career, but I’ve also had times where I needed to take a step back and lead in different ways. It’s ok step in and out of leadership roles and you can learn a lot by doing so.
What is the best piece of advice that you have received?
Never underestimate the power of feedback. Ask for it from people you respect and seek mentors at every stage of your career. They can be your greatest support when your team is depending on you, but you need someone to lean on too. I am incredibly grateful to the many female mentors I’ve relied upon over the years for pep talks, honest assessments and friendship.
Mikkell Jackson Roeland, Executive Search Practice
What message would you like to convey to young women and girls aspiring to leadership roles in civic organizations like Seattle CityClub?
My best advice is to get centered on your “why”. Why do you want to lead? Why do you want to be engaged and why do you want to bring others alongside you? When you are clear on your “why”, especially why you want to serve others, your path will become clear.
What book transformed your perspective as a woman in your career?
The most important book that has influenced my career has been Good to Great, by Jim Collins. Prior to reading the book I was very focused on what I needed to do to ascend the corporate ladder because that was where I thought I was supposed to focus. After reading the book I learned that if I focus on not only the things I need to learn but also the things I need to teach others and on making stronger leaders than I am for the future, then I will be successful.
Jaki Brophy, Compass Health
What message would you like to convey to young women and girls aspiring to leadership roles in civic organizations like Seattle CityClub?
For me, I have found the most success when I’ve gotten engaged in things I am passionate about. Taking on leadership roles can be a big commitment, and it is much more rewarding and easier during the demanding times when you are focused on a cause or activity that really drives you. Also, when you are passionate, I tend to find more opportunities present themselves.
What book transformed your perspective as a woman in your career?
I wouldn’t say that any one particular book transformed my perspective as a woman in my career. I absolutely love stories – whether they be in books, on the screen, or even in a conversation. I think reading and immersing ourselves in other people’s stories is a great way to begin to understand the perspective of others. From a practical career standpoint, I find Radical Candor by Kim Scott to be the ultimate guide and approach to lead authentically and with a human touch.
Kim Becklund, King County Metro Transit
What message would you like to convey to young women and girls aspiring to leadership roles in civic organizations like Seattle CityClub?
When I was in my 20s, 30s, growing my career, I jumped into several organizations that were specific to my field and into civic groups that are centered on political change, social justice and advancing women in the workplace and women’s reproductive rights. Really grateful I did! So many of my closest women friends are those that I met early on that were great peer-to-peer friends. I also intentionally secured relationships with women who were my mentors/more seasoned in my field to learn from them. Having several civic groups to be a part of really nurtured my interest in learning more about my community, public policy and their collective relevance to everyday life; growing my leadership skills, deepened my understanding of local and regional public policy and practice. The intentional mix of work and civic engagement has helped me advance a deliberately wholistic approach of how I conduct my work, how I see my work in context of our broader community, our world, and my place in it. Asking people to be your mentor is a great way to learn, build rapport and long lasting professional relationships.
What is the best piece of advice that you have received?
I am thankful for having great women coach me along my journey. The best advice I received and give to others is this: share your power (it’s all about collaboration to get things done); be inquisitive and assertive – ask the hard questions and do it will authenticity and care; interrupt business if you see anything that violates your values or others values or rights; lift voices around you, especially BIPOC individuals. How we “show up” matters. Make it count is all your conversations.
What book transformed your perspective as a woman in your career?
There is no one book that really transformed my career; it was a series of leadership training opportunities that were very hands-on and participating as both mentee and mentor that really helped. I recommend that young women seek opportunities to learn in as many different spaces as reasonable. Volunteer! Learn! Deliver!
Jillian Youngblood, Civic Genius
What message would you like to convey to young women and girls aspiring to leadership roles in civic organizations like Seattle CityClub?
I’d offer the advice a friend gave me when I first started biking in New York City: act like a car. Modern roads were designed more for cars than bikes, so cyclists live in a motorist’s world. You can hang back and let cars dictate how your commute is going to go, or you can assert yourself and challenge the environment you’re in. To do that, you have to take up space and make it clear that you have a right to be there. Civic life often has the vibe that only people truly in the know really belong there, and I want young women and girls to know that if you live in the world, you belong here.
What book transformed your perspective as a woman in your career?
Last fall, I had the incredible fortune of spending time with Monica McWilliams, a key player in the Good Friday agreement and founder of the Northern Ireland Women’s Coalition — and I wish I could have read her book, Stand Up, Speak Out, years ago. At times, it felt like McWilliams was writing straight out of my brain, with observations like “We were accused of having nothing to say, but when we asserted ourselves, we were told to stop preaching.” In the face of broad condescension, she forged a style of leadership that was firm, galvanizing, and incredibly effective — all while staying grounded and maintaining a sense of humor. Her approach feels completely relevant today.