Published March 21, 2024
Melissa Cole, Pensacola State College Foundation
Two renowned and respected leaders in the Greater Pensacola area, Debbie Calder and Debbie Ritchie, led an engaging lunch and learn that covered the strengths and challenges women face related to philanthropy. With their individual success, Debbie Calder a former Chief Operating Officer of Navy Federal Credit Union and Debbie Ritchie a Chief Operating Officer and President for Studer Group and Huron, left attendees inspired.
Both hosts shared their experience as women in leadership who are also involved with charitable organizations. They emphasized the importance of tying passion and fact to philanthropic efforts. “You have to be able to speak to the heart and find out what someone truly cares about,” Debbie Richie shared. “When you can connect what someone is passionate about, to what they believe to be true; and, show how your work makes a meaningful difference, you’ll be able to communicate on an entirely new level.”
Building on Debbie Ritchie’s conversation, Debbie Calder highlighted the value of adaptability as an individual and within the organization. “Oftentimes, we change because of necessity. Our thoughts, attitudes, and roles change because we’re rising to meet needs that may not have been there before.”
Before answering questions, Debbie Richie reviewed the nine C’s (creation, change, connection, collaboration, commitment, celebration, control, confidence, and courage). She shared the final three C’s are a direct reflection of the broad change that has occurred in the ways that women give. “Today they have a much larger presence in the workforce than ever before, which translates to greater wealth.”
Participants praised the speakers for their candor and wisdom. “It was refreshing to be able to listen to real, honest women telling their stories,” Cheryl Hinnen of Bright Bridge Ministries commented.
In the height of Women’s History Month, this insightful workshop was a celebration of the resilience, success, and impact of women in charitable organizations.
For more information on upcoming training opportunities with the PSC Center for Nonprofit Excellence visit: https://npc.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-workshops/ or contact Kylie Henderson at khenderson@pensacolastate.edu or (850) 484 – 1193.