My first "Big Girl" Boss, Marsha Stout

March 1999, I walked into the offices of what was then called The Portland Oregon Visitors Association it was a panel job interview.  Marsha Stout, Director of Membership was the lead in the interview and little did I know two other future mentors would sit to her left and right Jackie Harper and Carolyn Wence.

Marsha took a risk on this recent college graduate. She hired me as the membership sales manager.   She was willing to see my potential as a sales person and industry professional.  Little did she know then where I would be today.

Over the years Marsha would open some of my first career doors, allowing me to attend local, regional, and national conferences. Marsha gave me my first performance reviews that helped to mold the woman I have become.  Just about a year after I started she was also willing to let me grow as she allowed me to job transfer to the Convention Services position.

Yes, it is true most every woman will have her first boss memory. Not every woman can call that woman now more than 10 years later a friend.   So as woman move through life today if you have choices to make about how roles are defined and redefined.  Marsha retired a year ago. I was moved to be able to attend this grand celebration in honor of her.

What every woman can learn from Marsha? Take time to get the right employee, hire women when appropriate.  Once you have them nurture their strengths, challenge them to grow to become the women they can be.