Hundreds gathered for Regence-sponsored Women’s Leadership Summit at the Portland Classic
For nearly a decade, the Women’s Leadership Summit has been an integral part of the LPGA Portland Classic. As the event sponsor, Regence BlueCross BlueShield of Oregon gathered hundreds of attendees to hear from women who are defining innovative and unlikely paths, both in their communities and for the next generation of up-and-coming leaders. The event was hosted by Regence’s Chief Health Services Officer, Tonya Adams.
This year’s theme, “Building a Limitless Future,” focused on resiliency and paving the way for others, an approach embodied by keynote speaker Scout Basset, elite sprinter, triathlete and Paralympian.
Bassett is a seven-time national champion in the 100 meters and holds the world record in the 400 meters. As an infant, Bassett was abandoned on the streets of Nanjing, China, after losing her right leg in a chemical fire. At the summit, she shared that after years of feeling invisible, running allowed her to feel empowered. She encouraged attendees to persevere through challenges. “When you hit a setback, just keep going,” she said. She now advocates for people with disabilities, whom she calls “the world’s largest forgotten minority group.”
Moderated by KGW Anchor Brenda Braxton, a separate panel discussion included Lindsay Kagawa Colas, executive vice president at Wasserman; Maria Pope, chief executive officer of Portland General Electric; Dr. Robin Beavers, vice president of community and social impact for Portland Timbers and Thorns FC; and Jenny Nguyen, founder and owner of The Sports Bra.
The panelists covered a variety of business leadership topics, including the importance of mental health and how they care for themselves and support their employees. The panel also discussed overcoming obstacles, building their brand and challenging stereotypes faced by women in leadership. A common theme of the day was that no one can make change alone. It’s important for women, especially, to pay it forward and lift up other women.
Regence is proud to sponsor the Women’s Leadership Summit and continue highlighting women who lead, inspire and drive change.