More than 50 female high school students attended the Women Empowerment Student Summit on March 24, 2025.
Students from Plainfield High School-Central Campus, Plainfield South, Plainfield North, Plainfield East high schools, and Plainfield Academy gathered at the Administration Center to engage with accomplished female professionals for a day of mentorship and inspiration, said Dr. Kate Morris, district Director of High School Curriculum and Instruction.
The event featured speakers - Angie Carlson, Marketing Director at Elsevier, author of “When Leaf Let Go,” and founder of LIVE to LEARN; Dr. Rachel Mahmood, Illinois State Board of 
Education 2024 Teacher of the Year and educational consultant; Michelle Smith, township official, business owner of BSPI and Redhead Rentals; and Sharnell Weathersby, owner and founder of Grace and Beauty Tea Collection, Association Director of New Categories with Kimberly-Clark - who shared their personal and professional journeys, offering candid insights into leadership, career development, and personal growth.
Students also asked the presenters questions during a panel after the presentations, Morris said.
Key conversation topics included:
Public service and philanthropy
Holistic wellness and strategic goal setting
Navigating personal challenges and building belonging
Developing and managing personal professional brands
Organizers hope the event will inspire students to pursue their ambitions with confidence and purpose, bridging the gap between educational preparation and professional success.
