Still Soaring: Reflections from My First Women of Hopkins Leadership Conference
- Nicole Hargrove
- Mar 30
- 3 min read
Whew! My soul is still buzzing from the incredible experience of attending my very first Women of Hopkins Leadership Conference. As a proud graduate of the Carey Business School, I felt deeply grateful to connect with such a dynamic group of women from all walks of life. We built community, lifted one another up, and reminded ourselves of a shared truth: we are Women of Hopkins. These are a few golden nuggets from the sessions that left a list impact on me.
"You Don't Have a Yes Yet Because You Won't Apply" : Michelle Singletary, our keynote speaker, delivered a message that reached right into my heart. She shared openly about her journey and the importance of including therapy in her life - a reminder that healing and growth go hand in hand.
Before the conference, I was in a bit of a funk. I had just received two rejection emails and was feeling discouraged. Even with referrals, I couldn't seem to get past the applicant tracking systems. But Michelle's story reframed everything. she spoke about how, in high school, she almost didn't apply for a full-ride scholarship because she assumed she wouldn't get it. Her teacher challenged her with a simple but powerful line: "You don't have a Yes yet because you won't apply."
Cue the waterworks.
That was exactly what I needed to hear. These rejections won't stop me. I know the moment I get that interview, I'm going to shine. So, I'm choosing optimism over discouragement - and yes, I'm still applying!
Leading with Emotional Intelligence Across Generations
Dr. Candace Steele Flippin led a powerful session titled Leadership in Focus: Know Your Style and When to Adapt It with Authenticity and Impact. We explored Daniel Goleman's six Emotional Intelligence (EI) leadership styles, when to use them, and how to lead with authenticity in a complex workforce.
Even if we gravitate toward just one or two styles, understanding all six allows us to lead more effectively - especially when navigating diverse workplace dynamics. We even put our styles to the test in a fun role-playing activity. (Spoiler alert: stepping outside your comfort zone builds serious skills.)
These styles are Visionary, Coaching, Affiliative, Democratic, Pacesetting, and Commanding. Stay tuned - I'll be diving into each of the six EI leadership styles in future posts!
Mentorship That Moves the Needle
During the Mentorship & Sponsorship: Empowering and Advancing Others and Yourself session, Christina Anderson moderated a conversation with Serena Watters, Carrolyn Bostick-Jeter, and Kelly Scavella that me full of insight.
When it comes to mentorship, the panelists emphasized four key traits to look for: intelligence, distinctiveness, strong character, and a true commitment to your growth. I especially appreciate the focus on character. It matters deeply to me that my mentors show consistency - wheter I'm in the room or not.
I've been blessed to have both mentors and quiet champions throughout my career - especially during my time at IBM. To everyone who has ever spoken my name in rooms I haven't entered yet: THANK YOU!
"Talent Always Finds a Home." - Alicia Wilson, Esq.
During the Redefining Strength: Challenging the Superwoman Myth panel, Alicia Wilson, Esq. dropped a quote that floored me: "Talent always finds a home." I hid those words in my heart. As I continue applying for new opportunities, they echo in my mind as both a mantra and a promise.
She also asked a soul-searching question that still lingers: "Who are you without the world's trappings?" A powerful reminder that titles, accolades, and resumes don't define our worth.
And let's be real: there's no such thing as a Superwoman. To grow, we will make sacrifices. We can't be operating at 100% all the Time! Burnout is real and boundaries are essential. Personally, I'm a big fan of outsourcing where I can. If it frees up time to do the things that matter most, count me in.
I'll leave you with one last gem from Alicia:
"We are all ordinary women doing extraordinary things."
Here's to showing up, applying anyway, and remembering who we are. Women of Hopkins, I see you and I'm proud to be among you! I am looking forward to next year's event.
Always remember to empower through sharing knowledge, create global impact, and leave a legacy!
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