X

North Country Reps. Stefanik and Ritchie, joined by other local leaders, form 'Upstate Women’s Leadership Council'

Posted 5/8/15

North Country Rep. Elise Stefanik and State Sen. Patty Ritchie, joined by other local leaders, have announced formation of the “Upstate Women’s Leadership Council.” The group is aimed at …

This item is available in full to subscribers.

Please log in to continue

Log in

North Country Reps. Stefanik and Ritchie, joined by other local leaders, form 'Upstate Women’s Leadership Council'

Posted

North Country Rep. Elise Stefanik and State Sen. Patty Ritchie, joined by other local leaders, have announced formation of the “Upstate Women’s Leadership Council.”

The group is aimed at increasing opportunities for women’s personal and professional advancement and inspiring a next generation of leaders across Northern and Central New York, a release from Ritchie’s office said.

“Today, more and more women are stepping up to the plate, in academics, business, medicine and public service,” Ritchie said.

“The Upstate Women’s Leadership Council’s aim is to help these women and others find success in their chosen fields, and inspire women of every age—but especially young women—to reach for higher goals and become our next generation’s leaders,” Sen. Ritchie said.

“I am proud to join Sen. Ritchie and District Attorney Intschert in this important effort,” said Stefanik. “The Upstate Women’s Leadership Council will serve as a bridge to help women advance and succeed in fields across the spectrum. Northern and Central New York will benefit greatly by increasing opportunities for women to advance and I am proud to be a part of this important initiative to cultivate our next generation of women leaders.”

A first goal of the council is to host a conference this summer, and to create mentoring opportunities for to support and encourage women on their individual career paths.

Women comprise 51 percent of New York’s population and workforce—slightly more than the national average. They earn 60 percent of undergraduate and master’s degrees.

Nearly 400 women currently serve in public office in St. Lawrence, Jefferson and Oswego counties, about one-fourth of current office holders.