IMG 5252 4 edited scaled NEW: Momentum names impressive 21st executive leadership class—see the list — Local leaders. (Momentum)

Momentum, a statewide nonprofit that’s been offering leadership development programs for women since 2002, announced the roster for its 21st executive leadership class in Birmingham. The list includes rockstar women leaders from many different industries and roles. Plus, it’s the most diverse Momentum class yet, with 30% of the women identifying as non-white. Read on for more.

Empowering local women

IMG 0017 1 NEW: Momentum names impressive 21st executive leadership class—see the list — This program is creating leaders ready to make change in Alabama. (Momentum)

Momentum is Alabama’s premier women’s leadership program which empowers a diverse group of promising women to develop leadership skills that will positively impact business, culture and politics in Alabama.

“Momentum has always placed importance on diversity in our class selection. That includes diversity in every aspect: thought, background, ethnicity, professional experience and industry. For the last 10 years we have more intentionally encouraged women from under-represented groups to apply. As the pipeline has grown, so has their participation in the class.”
Andrea McCaskey, Statewide Director of Programs, Momentum

P.S.—Since 2019, more than 220 women have graduated from Momentum’s Upward Early-Career Program, and they’re taking applications now-August 31 for their 2024 class.

How the executive leadership program works

Expert facilitators at Momentum sessions — Nationally-recognized experts lead the program. (Momentum)

The class will follow a nine-month program of personal and professional development, led by experts from around the country. The curriculum is a combination of soft skills and business skills required of leaders, presented through the female lens.

Here’s a look at what they’ll practice:

Emotional Intelligence
Leveraging Strengths and Talents
Successful Negotiation
Stress Management and Resilience
Leading with Influence
Leadership Branding, Presentations, and Social Media
Healthy Conflict, Healthy Teams
Organizational and Community Impact
Advocacy Skills and Mentoring
Board Service and Personal Philanthropy

New class members will meet for orientation at the opening retreat in September.

Meet the 35 local women leaders

IMG 5259 3 NEW: Momentum names impressive 21st executive leadership class—see the list — We can’t wait to follow along. (Momentum)

Momentum’s CEO, April Benetello, is excited to see how this group of women leaders make their mark in Alabama.

“With our 20 plus years of experience, we know how to give women the tools, resources, and connections to grow confidently into
their leadership potential and develop an intentional plan for reaching their goals. More than 70% of graduates report one or more promotions after completing the program, and 93% go on to mentor or sponsor other women after their Momentum experience.”
April Benetollo, CEO, Momentum

Now, here are the amazing women who’ve been named part of the 2023 class: