The Wired-Side Chat: From the Desk of the CEO - March 2022
It is March, indeed!
A couple of weeks ago, my daughter-in-law told me that I could retire my light-up snowman from the window, and sadly, I did. If you read my chat last month, you would know that I wished for snow. Well, my wish was granted! My golden-glittered snowman made his appearance on Saturday morning – back in the window illuminating through the snow laden tree limbs. What a nice, relaxing, beautiful weekend!
As the seasons transition from winter to spring, we transition to yet another month of celebration: Women’s History Month! Celebrating the contributions of women all over the globe across industries. We are your sister, daughter, mother, wife, life partner, grandmother, aunt, cousin, and friend.
Take time to celebrate these strong, brave women in your lives and those who have broken down barriers, shattered glass ceilings, and often, made contributions that go unannounced or even unacknowledged. It’s crazy, but I wake up every day wondering, “What face of adversity will show up today?” Despite the obstacles, we all continue to blaze trails in our communities. Still becoming the first to do something. Somewhere… It’s a strange phenomenon to reconcile in your brain considering the long history of the existence of humanity.
Women trailblazers, both past and present, continue to forge paths and give young girls and women role models to follow. These role models give them hope, confirmation, and affirmation that they too can move mountains, make a difference, an impact, and an opportunity to leave things better than they found it. We fight the good fight and forge our ways through so that they have the freedom to write their own herstory.
I am both thankful and grateful for my maternal lineage: Mariah, Harriett, Sallie, Lavicey, Eva, Novella, Lillian, Rebecca, and my mother LaWanda for giving me a foundation of strength and encouragement. I am over the moon excited to witness the many women who have used that same foundation in their lives to go out there, get out there, and do some utterly amazing things!
My 6-year-old granddaughter (5 at the time) once asked as we were headed out for the day, “Grandma, are you the boss at your job?” I said, “Well sweetheart, yes I am.” The way she looked at me and said, “Wow (pause), that’s so cool” made me feel 10 feet tall! For the person I need for it to matter most, it does. They are watching and waiting for an opportunity to do something great. I hope the world is ready!
Take a moment to celebrate the amazing women in your life.
About the Author
Casandra Blassingame, MEd, is the Chief Executive Officer of the International Association of Continuing Education and Training (IACET). She is a recognized leader in adult and continuing education and has over 20 years of experience in higher education, continuing and professional studies, and workforce development. Prior to joining IACET as CEO, Casandra was the Vice President of Education Services for the American Gear Manufacturers Association where she led the organization’s effort in achieving and maintaining IACET accreditation. She has also served as an IACET commissioner, reviewing dozens of applications, and an IACET Board Member.