07-03-2025
Greater Holyoke YMCA holds first women leaders panel in honor of Women's History Month
HOLYOKE, Mass. (WWLP) – In honor of women's history month, the Greater Holyoke YMCA hosted a panel discussion with women leaders who are positively impacting the community.
This event highlighted the accomplishments of four women leaders. Each one serving as an inspiration to other women who want to follow in their footsteps.
The Greater of Holyoke YMCA shined a light on four women leaders who've come a long way in their personal career journeys. Over 80 women came together at the YMCA to hear how these leaders got to be where they are today. One of the panelists shared how she faced challenges in her career, but remains determined to break barriers and pave the way for other women to do the same.
'I mean, in the golf industry, it's male dominated. So I just hope to inspire, empower women that it's not just men that are playing out there and women should step up and they should feel confident enough to accept the invitation to, you know, join the men out there and be involved with the business deals and developing relationships,' said Director of Instruction at Twin Hills Country Club in Longmeadow, Melissa Kulig Crow.
Panelists hope that by telling their stories, it will inspire other women to not only take charge, but be a voice within their careers. 'When other women can hear you defy the odds, see that you defy the odds, then that gives them the encouragement and the willpower to go out there and do the same things because equality and equality, that's what it's about,' said Pat Spradley.
The panel also included the Holyoke City Council President Tessa Murphy Romboletti and Fire Lieutenant Maria Pelchar. These panelists are also part of the Greater Holyoke YMCA new women-focused employee resource group, called 'Stronger Together.' This group looks to support women's career development and leadership by providing mentorship opportunities.
This is the first employee resource group for any YMCA in western Massachusetts.
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