For the 11th Annual Tribute Luncheon and Symposium, the Women's Foundation for a Greater Memphis introduced the Youth Leadership event. Students engaged in facilitated leadership-building activities where they identified opportunities and learned how they could positively impact the Memphis community. Cathryn Stout, reporter and columnist for the Commercial Appeal, served as the mistress of ceremonies for the event.

Druing this educational event, our theme Women Leaders Ascending resonated throughout with the introducation of the 2009 Women's Foundation Legends Award Recipient Essay contest. The Women's Foundation recognized six legendary women for their unwavering dedication to making the Memphis community better. With a commitment to honoring the ascending female leaders of the next generation, the essay contest invited youth to explore "What Leadership Means to Me!" while learning about one of the Legends Award honorees.

College students from around Memphis served as workshop facilitators. These sessions highlighed opportunities available to students who strive to become leaders in their academic and personal environments.

We want to thank the college students who helped to facilitate this landmark event:

• Jennifer Autman, University of Memphis
• Amber Carter, University of Memphis
• April Hudson, University of Memphis
• Juzanne Howard, University of Memphis
• Ashley Jeunger, Rhodes College
• Tatevik Minasyan, University of Memphis
• Kathy Rivas, University of Memphis
• Maria Rodriguez, University of Memphis

"Working with the Women's Foundation was a very rewarding experience. Anyone can make an appearance for young girls at an event, but to have an impact on them is priceless."
Amber Carter

"This motivating experience for future youth leaders made me realize that we can help each other become great leaders by perservering, listening and cooperating!"
Kathy Rivas

"The very best part was knowing that together we can all inspire and encourage one another to overcome the world by storm by becoming leaders in every aspect; to not only see the need for people with our compassion, but to actually put our sincerity to action."
Juzanne Howard