WLI - Midway Dinner - Session 5

Pictured from left to right, Front Row: Liberti Johnson, Kiersten Wegener, Talia Carter, Addison Chaduet, Rylie Myers. Back Row:  Cathy Dupertuis, David Friess, Jennifer Gregson, Jill Landgraf, Jeanne Fithian, Sarah Landeck, Jeniffer Tepe, and Jace Knight.

On December 17, 2025, the Women's Leadership Initiative convened for its Midway Dinner, uniting all participants to enjoy a meal and explore how the program is benefiting everyone.

Explore the inspiring stories of mentors and mentees who are succeeding through the Women’s Leadership Program.

State Representative David Friess welcomed the team to the occasion, and he asked a poignant question of all those present. He wondered how the program had impacted them positively and whether there were any ways to improve.

Kiersten Wegener was the first to share her thoughts. She expressed her happiness with the program and everything she has learned along the way. She mentioned being introduced to several professionals in her field who provided her with valuable insights for her future. Kiersten highlighted her enjoyment of having Jennifer Gregson (Chief Administrative Officer - Red Bud Regional Hospital) as her mentor, noting how much she appreciates Jennifer’s guidance in answering her questions. The only aspect she would like to see improved is more regular networking opportunities with all the mentors and mentees to gain even more valuable insights.

Addison Chaduet mentioned that she concurred with everything Kiersten stated, yet noted that she has gained unexpected benefits from the program. She gained valuable insights not only from Sarah Landeck (Chief Market Development Officer - CVS Health) but also from Brianna Dupertuis (Barbeau), broadening her perspective on various paths in the biomedical field. She believed she was focused on a single direction, but is now open to more opportunities within the field.

Talia Carter (Junior-Red Bud, HS) mentioned that she has had numerous opportunities to connect with various leaders in her field of interest. Talia has received valuable guidance from her mentor, Jill Landgraf (Administrative Officer, City of Red Bud). She is working with her to chart her path to the service academy. Talia believes that frequent networking opportunities would benefit everyone.

Rylie Myers (Senior-Chester HS) agreed with the other mentees, stating that the program has been excellent so far. She has appreciated her connection with Jeniffer Tepe (Organizational Development - Spire) and is eager for more chances to engage with professionals and refine her career options. Continuing, she would like to get to know the other mentees and mentors in the coming months.

Liberti Johnson (Senior-Sparta HS) felt very fortunate to have a mentor who was dedicated to her and her alone. She mentioned that she has spoken with many people in the past. Still, the focus Jeanne Fithian (Veterinary Technician - Red Bud Veterinary Services) has been able to give her, and the ability to have one-on-one conversations whenever she needs them, has been constructive. She said she would also benefit from more face-to-face interaction with the group.

Each mentor had the opportunity to share how the experience had impacted them, expressing that they had also grown from it and learned more about their own leadership skills. Contributing to the local students instilled a sense of community pride in each mentor. They all confirmed they would be happy to share their experiences and resources with the entire team.

Cathy Dupertuis (District Director for State Representative David Friess) and Jace Knight (Legislative Assistant) are enhancing their engagement efforts. They are currently crafting plans to foster more meaningful face-to-face interactions with the WLI teams, creating an atmosphere for collaboration and dialogue. As they have committed to date, they will continue to develop a range of valuable resources and outreach opportunities designed to empower and support all individuals involved in the Women's initiative, ensuring that every voice is heard and every contribution is valued.