Versatility is defined as the absence of imbalance in which pairs of opposing qualities and skills are combined. Versatile leaders have the ability to adjust their behavior, communication, approaches depending on the circumstances. When I think of how I define versatility, it is about obtaining a variety of tools for my professional toolbox. As I listen in on a variety of webinars, attend professional development trainings, join professional boards or read industry blogs and books, I am looking to gain tools to help me become a more diverse, versatile leader in my profession. Gaining these essential tools, helps a leader choose the right approach with the correct degree for the circumstances they encounter. Essentially, leaders must constantly learn and grow to be versatile leaders.
The Association for Women in Communication provides its members with a vast array of educational opportunities from the chapter level to the national level. The National Conference is the premier forum for AWC members to learn, grow and network and become versatile leaders.
Versatility is the theme of this year’s Association for Women in Communications 2021 National Conference. The speakers that have been selected for this conference are the definition of versatile leaders. They are leaders of teams in unique spaces, they make room at the table for themselves when there was no room before, they have are experts in pivoting outreach and engagement efforts during unprecedented times and they are strategic in bringing voices to underrepresented populations in the spaces they represent. Each session, panel, and experience at the 2021 National Conference will add a new tool to your professional toolbox.
AWC’s National Conference, Versatility: Elevating your voice in changing times, is the premier professional event for those in the communication industry. Attendees will be able to choose between on-site or virtual attendance and take part in keynote addresses, breakout sessions, networking opportunities and the AWC signature Clarion Awards ceremony.
The Bloomington-Normal AWC Chapter is excited to host this year’s conference in Normal, Illinois on November 11-13. Early bird registration is open now through July 30th . For more details, the full conference schedule, and how to get registered, visit AWC National Conference site.
About the Author
Stephanie Duquenne is the Chair of the AWC Conference Committee, the past president of the Bloomington-Normal, IL chapter, and the faculty advisor of the Illinois State University student chapter. She is the Director of Engagement for the Illinois State University Alumni Association, leading the Homecoming Steering Committee and organizes alumni reunions. She also works on initiatives related to civic engagement and advocacy, including the LGBTQA Alumni Network, Sports Club Alumni Network, and Alumni Band Network.
