MacDill hosts Women's History Month panel

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Brittany Liddon
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing public affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  There was standing room only in the auditorium of the Chief Master Sgt. Dozier Airman Leadership School, as active duty military members and civilians, were given the opportunity to ask questions to a panel of influential women from the base and the community.

The four women chosen to be on the panel were: Teresa Foss, business development manager, Elizabeth Frazier, Tampa Bay Lightning Vice President of Philanthropy and Community Initiatives, Andrea Bowen, 6th Medical Group family advocacy outreach manager, and Col. (retired) Barbara Persons, 6th MDG women's health element leader.

After a brief introduction from each of the women on the panel, the floor was open for questions. Some of the topics that were discussed included equality, communication, balance in roles as women, personal inspirations, and challenges faced as women.

"Everyone has something to bring to the table and your gender shouldn't matter," Frazier said. "I have been fortunate enough to not have had to deal with any inequalities due to my gender, but it still happens."

After the panel answered questions, they were all given certificates of appreciation for their time.

"We chose these phenomenal women based on what they have done and are doing today," explained Payne. "Each woman brought a different perspective and experience to the panel, so that the attending members would be able to learn from the insight given and apply it to their own lives."

Some of the other events put on for Women's History Month were a recognition ceremony with the Tampa community, a basic automotive skills class, and a women's strength training class.

"The Women's History Month committee would like to thank everyone who supported our events," Payne said. "Especially the phenomenal women who led the events and guest speakers, we wouldn't have had great events without you."