North Idaho Alliance: Women of IMPACT shines at annual Women’s Conference
Marilee Wallace
North Idaho Alliance Women of IMPACT was found celebrating in full force at the annual Onward and Upward Women’s Conference, held May 21 at the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn. The theme this year, The “IN”fluence of Leadership, was powerfully delivered by a lineup of all-local, tangible speakers who brought authenticity, inspiration, and wisdom to the stage.
Leading the charge was keynote speaker Col. Angela O’Connell, Vice Wing Commander of the 141st at Fairchild Air Force Base. Her topic, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Owning Your Worth, drew from her own personal journey as a woman navigating leadership roles in the military. Despite her many successes, Col. O’Connell shared candidly how the thought, “I’m not worthy of this position,” still occasionally lingers. Her genuine and grounded approach struck a chord with the 200 women in attendance, leaving a lasting impact on everyone in the room.
Joining her were equally inspiring keynote speakers. Debbie Heiser, Adjunct Professor for the School of Leadership at Gonzaga University and Founder of The Lit Up Life, spoke on the power of servant leadership — a cornerstone of her work in organizational development. Sandy Young, of Verdis Group and named Idaho’s Medium Business of the Year, also took the stage with an empowering message on purpose-driven leadership.
There’s something truly special about this annual event. The Onward and Upward Women’s Conference continues to grow each year thanks to the deep talent of our local speakers and the unique relationships that blossom and carry on beyond the day itself.
Nia-Women of Impact is committed to empowering women in North Idaho to thrive — whether they’re launching a new career, changing paths, retired, recently relocated, or simply reimagining their next phase. At the heart of it all is connection, which happens in meaningful ways when women gather with shared purpose.
It is always my deepest honor to host this conference each year. Special thanks go to the Coeur d’Alene Press, the Best Western Plus Coeur d’Alene Inn, and all of the generous sponsors who help make this celebration possible.
What’s next? This fall, we launch the nine-month Women of Impact Leadership Roundtable — a tuition-based, community-centered program designed to develop leadership and connection. We also debut our new WOW! program, beginning in November with Words of Wishes, where young women will take the stage and share their hopes for the future. In March, we’ll follow up with Words of Wisdom, featuring insights from wise women in our community.
NIA is proud to be expanding into other communities and welcomes women of every background, shape, and story to join us. We celebrate the influence of each woman’s leadership — and we celebrate our vibrant, growing community.
NIA is open for all women in North Idaho who want to learn and connect. Our only goal is to empower women to thrive and positively impact the community.
The Women of Impact Leadership Roundtable meets once a month for a nine-month series beginning each Sept. 24. Details at #nia-impact.com.
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Marilee Wallace, IOM, president/CEO of the North Idaho Alliance Women of Impact. The Women of Impact Leadership Roundtable meets once a month for a nine-month series, and we base our monthly agenda on the word IMPACTED. She can be reached at marilee@theniallaince.com.
