Laurel Springs Celebrates International Women's Day 2020

3/6/20

Sunday, March 8, 2020 marks this year's International Women's Day, which is a global celebration of the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. Did you know that the first International Women's Day occurred in 1911—over 100 years ago? That first event was celebrated by over one million people. Today, International Women's Day is recognized much more widely, and it is not limited to particular organizations, countries, or groups.
In recognition of the event, we are showcasing just a few of the women in leadership at Laurel Springs School. These high-achieving educators and professionals are inspiring future generations of women leaders every day.
 
Megan O'Reilly Palevich, Head of School

Megan O'Reilly Palevich, Head of School

What does it mean to be a leader?

I consider myself to be an accidental leader. I never aspired to be a Head of School. I truly thought that I would be a teacher forever, but I learned the most about leadership in the classroom. To me, leading is just like teaching—you need to guide, inspire, support, and challenge. You also need to value and respect each individual and personalize learning for them. These seem like such simple things to do, but they are truly the foundation for leadership. It's my job as a leader to develop these skills in the members of my team so they can then become the future leaders of our school and beyond. 

What advice do you have for budding leaders?

My greatest advice is to find a mentor who inspires you. Learn from them and then internalize their qualities to make them your own. Choose to learn something new every day and expand your perspective outside of your own work. And always do the job that you aspire to have, even if your title doesn’t reflect it yet!

Is there anything else you'd like to share about being a woman in LSS leadership?

I actually came to Laurel Springs because of its strong female leadership. It's relatively uncommon to see women leading co-ed K-12 institutions. I am forever grateful that LSS had a pathway for me—we tend to see things a little differently at LSS, whether that is education or leadership!
 

Leigh Tillman, Dean of CurriculumLeigh Tillman, Dean of Curriculum

What does it mean to be a leader?

A great leader, in my opinion, is a humble servant willing to work for the good of the team, and one that looks out for the best interests of those under their leadership. Being a leader means being willing to sacrifice, take responsibility, and lead by example.

 
What advice do you have for budding leaders?

My advice for budding leaders is simple: Be willing to work harder than anyone on your team. Know your team, and be willing to step in at any time. No task, responsibility, or job should ever be beneath you.

 
Is there anything else you'd like to share about being a woman in LSS leadership?

Being a leader within Laurel Springs School is truly an honor and a privilege. It is a responsibility that I do not take lightly. Every decision I make, in some way, will impact the educational experience of one of our students.
 

Jane Ferris, Dean of StudentsJane Ferris, Dean of Students

What does it mean to be a leader?

Leaders look for opportunities, and they provide ideas and motivation to help others do their best using strong interpersonal skills. Leaders inspire!

 
What advice do you have for budding leaders?

Leaders can be found everywhere!  To be a leader means to possess a growth mindset and a commitment to continuous development of leadership skills and qualities—that includes integrity, emotional intelligence, humility, collaboration, decisiveness, resilience, curiosity, creativity, and communication skills.

 
Is there anything else you'd like to share about being a woman in LSS leadership?

I see my role as a part of the Laurel Springs leadership team as that of growing and enhancing the opportunities available to our students, parents, faculty, staff, and the larger communities in which we are a part.  With leadership comes responsibility to remain open-minded, looking for ways to empower and encourage others, and cultivating future leaders.
 

Julie Shallis, Director of Marketing & Communications

Julie Shallis, Director of Marketing & Communications

What does it mean to be a leader?

It means to inspire, show authenticity, and empower others to shine. It’s gaining trust by your actions and knowing when to take responsibility or when to humbly sit back and listen.

What advice do you have for budding leaders?

Learn from your mentors, as well as those who are not. Learning how to treat others is just as important as learning how not to treat them. Welcome change and be willing to work beyond your job description. When you feel discouraged, take a moment to deal with it, but then learn from it and keep going!

Is there anything else you'd like to share about being a woman in LSS leadership?

I am so proud to be a part of the entire Laurel Springs family! I have amazing support from my team and colleagues. We’re in this together, and everyone is truly passionate about the education we provide, as well as the well-being of our families and students.
 

Diane Coraluzzi, Director of Student Services<

Diane Coraluzzi, Director of Student Services

What does it mean to be a leader?

Leaders inspire people to expand upon their talents and help them reach their career goals, while showing compassion along the way. Helping an organization reach its goals will happen naturally when you take care of the people.

What advice do you have for budding leaders?

Always be kindhearted and take time to listen to your team, as well as the audience you're serving.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about being a woman in LSS leadership?

Leadership is a privilege that I never take lightly, and it’s an honor to serve my team and the company. Women and men both have their hurdles, but it’s important that we come together to understand our differences as people and leaders. Our number one priority is the family community that we serve and the company that we lead.

 
Stacey Geyer, Senior Admissions Manager

Stacey Geyer, Senior Admissions Manager

 
What does it mean to be a leader?

Leadership means providing purpose, direction, and motivation. It is working alongside the people you lead and never asking them to do something you would do yourself. I lead with integrity, keeping things fair and consistent with the way I guide my team. 

 
What advice do you have for budding leaders?

Listen to understand, not respond. Be reflective and honest with yourself. You will fail at some point, and that's okay. 

 
Is there anything else you'd like to share about being a woman in LSS leadership?

I really enjoy helping my peers be the best leaders they can be through mentoring and coaching.