By Margo Nunn
Women at Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C) will now have a powerful platform to amplify their voices with the college’s first women’s empowerment group, She Speaks Loud. The club plans to launch during the spring semester to provide mentorship, leadership development, and a supportive community.
The idea for She Speaks Loud was born out of the need to address the unique challenges that women face both academically and in the workforce. Given recent changes in our nation, the group’s mission has never been more relevant. As both the Founder and a Tri-C student, I believe in the importance of creating a community where women can connect, support each other, and build confidence. The group will work to organize networking events and provide financial literacy education. She Speaks Loud will also offer workshops on salary negotiation, public speaking, and self-advocacy, to support members in achieving their personal and professional goals.
A key feature of She Speaks Loud is its emphasis on group connections, helping students build professional networks that foster career success. The group aims to bridge the gap between academic achievement and career readiness by equipping students with real-world skills. Tri-C faculty and students have expressed support for the initiative, recognizing its potential to empower women to take charge of their futures.
As noted by the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, “Gender equality makes development stronger and more sustainable. It is not only a pressing moral and social issue but also a critical economic challenge. If women (who account for half the world’s working-age population) do not achieve their full economic potential, the global economy will suffer.” Research from a 2022 study by Lopez Hernandez and associates supports this, showing that women who build professional networks and boost their confidence are more likely to succeed. Studies show that women-focused networking and training programs increase leadership aspirations, confidence, and agency.
Beyond networking, She Speaks Loud is dedicated to taking action. The group will partner with local women’s shelters, including Family Promise of Greater Cleveland and The Haven Home, as well as Tri-C faculty, to introduce leadership training that equips women with the skills needed for success both on and off campus. Additionally, She Speaks Loud plans to host guest speakers; accomplished women in business, healthcare, technology, and the arts. They will share their insights and experiences with members.
She Speaks Loud invites all students to its next meeting, whether they seek financial advice, leadership training, or a supportive community. Soon, we will have a page on the Tri-C student organizations website. Look there for more information on how to get involved. With its focus on empowerment, sisterhood, and action, She Speaks Loud is set to make a lasting impact at Tri-C, ensuring that women’s voices are not just heard but celebrated and amplified.
Michelle Obama:
“There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”
