Washington, D.C. – Today, the Junior League of Washington (JLW) held its annual Women’s Leadership Breakfast, an opportunity for individuals to participate and be inspired by the lives of remarkable speakers who have overcome obstacles in order to lead successful careers.

Women’s Leadership Breakfast Co-Chairs Cady Clapp & Kimberly Price welcome attendees to this year’s virtual event.

This event serves as a cornerstone of JLW’s League year, and for the first time in the League’s history, this forum was held in a virtual format to comply with COVID-19 safety guidelines. 

While the League looks forward to returning to in-person events in the future, spirits remained high as members and attendees looked forward to this annual tradition. Co-Chairs for the Breakfast Cady Clapp and Kimberly Price shared, “The Junior League of Washington has done an amazing job meeting the challenges associated with the coronavirus pandemic. We were thrilled to work with such distinguished speakers and leaders from across our region who shared how we can ‘Lead Confidently’ through any circumstance, including a once-in-a-century pandemic.”

JLW President, Jessica Taylor White, shared,“I am proud of the collective efforts it took to bring together such a remarkable event during an unprecedented year. Today’s speakers echoed the sentiments I’ve seen all year – that no matter the circumstances, when we ‘Lead Confidently,” you can accomplish anything. I am confident today’s discussions will resonate with our members and attendees for years to come.”

Keynote speaker Susan Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief of National Geographic

This year’s keynote speaker was Susan Goldberg, Editor-in-Chief of National Geographic. She led the discussion by opening up about her personal experience working in journalism. Ms. Goldberg has received many prestigious awards including nine National Magazine Awards and the top prize for General Excellence in 2019. In addition to awards for journalism, Ms. Goldberg has been recognized repeatedly for her steadfast leadership and was voted one of Washington’s “11 Most Influential Women in the Media” by Washingtonian Magazine in 2013. Her story is an excellent reminder to us all of what drive, determination, and dedication to public service can accomplish.

Susan Goldberg: “When I look at my life story, I see resiliency as the single greatest factor in what I’ve been able to achieve. Being resilient means we keep trying. We say yes to things that scare us. We don’t give up — we show up.” 

Moderator WUSA9 weeknight anchor Lesli Foster featuring panelists Gina Shaefer ,Owner and operator of 13 ACE Hardware stores, and Carla Hayden, PhD – 14th Librarian of Congress.

Dr. Laura Morgan Roberts conducted a Leadership Training session with WLB attendees.

Susan Goldberg is the National Geographic’s first female Editor-In-Chief in the publication’s 133-year history.