• Cynthia Capers, Interim Dean, College of Education, University of Akron
• Laura Culp, CPA, MT, Director of Tax, Brockman, Coats, Gedelian & Co.
• Pat McKay, Owner, McKay Insurance Agency, Inc.
• Regina Shaw, John Dellagnese & Associates

These leaders openly shared with us the beliefs and path that molded their lives. As diverse as their backgrounds are, it is not surprising that they share a common outlook for achieving success. Each woman has chosen to:

• See life’s opportunities, not obstacles.
• Live a life of conscious choice, taking responsibility for their decisions.
• Live without regrets.
• Honor their mentors.
• Mentor others.

Masks, a life planning article I wrote some time back, captures the essence of the self-imposed silent pain and frustration we often carry within. Masks of perfection and professionalism not only keep others at arms length, those same masks often keep you from experiencing the life you want to live.

I hope the life lessons these women leaders chose to share will empower you to also see a life of opportunity, not obstacles.

Leading by example, Laura, Regina, Pat, and Cynthia have removed the masks of perfection and professionalism and allowed you to see the woman behind the mask.

Won’t you do the same?