Every year, we bring together the talented young women from across the country who’ve received scholarships made possible by our founder, Ann Drake. This year’s gathering in late October of almost 50 Drake Scholars represented the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, members of Kappa Alpha Theta Sorority, and AWESOME (Achieving Women’s Excellence in Supply Chain Operations, Management, and Education).
“The world needs your leadership,” Ann Drake told the gathering. “This weekend is a testament to what can happen when women come together to challenge and champion one another.”
For two-and-a-half days, the Scholars investigated the theme of “Fearless Female Leadership”—what it consists of, how to embody it, and how to encourage it in others. In discussions and exercises led by authors, professors, and women business leaders, the participants explored how the qualities of authenticity, emotional intelligence, communication, and power shape leadership today. Every session emphasized practical lessons and honest reflection. A key theme emerged: Don’t ask for permission to be yourself.
A final highlight of the retreat was a tour of the Women’s Leadership Center campus where our buildings near completion. When the Drake Scholars return for their retreat in 2026, we’ll be working and thinking in our new home!