Part 1: Women's History Month

To celebrate Women’s History Month, we asked members of Modivcare’s Female Empowerment Employee Resource Group to share their thoughts on leading other women, who inspires them, career advice, and more.

 Cindy Franklin, Vice President of Transportation, South Region

1.       What advice do you have for aspiring leaders who want to be in leadership positions?

Don't wait for anyone. Take it upon yourself to learn all you can about your department and other departments you are interested in. Offer to help in other areas. Help your peers. Act like the person you want to become. Be trustworthy with everyone. Dress like the person you want to become. Look like the leader you are. Be open to feedback without being defensive and grow from that feedback. Listen and learn from your managers, even if it's how not to treat people. Be patient and be ready when the next opportunity comes. Don’t be afraid to take a chance. If it fails, learn from it, and keep pushing.

2.       Describe your leadership style.

Participative. I want my management team to be involved in making decisions and not just say yes. We pay managers to manage, and they should be allowed to do so without micromanagement. I encourage open communication, feedback, and transparency. I respect and have respect from my management team and we all work very well together. I believe in positive affirmation and giving credit where credit is due.

Morgan Clay, Project Manager

1.       Why do we need more women in leadership?

Beyonce said it best, "Who run the world? Girls!" In a serious light, I firmly a successful organization harnesses the full spectrum of talents and viewpoints within a diverse workforce. By having diversity in leadership teams, we tap into creativity and innovation, considering a wide range of perspectives that might not otherwise be represented. Embracing diversity isn't only about inclusivity; it's about unlocking the full potential of our teams and driving sustainable success.

2.       What qualities make a great leader?

In my view, a remarkable leader is one who empowers those around them. They possess the ability to make difficult decisions while remaining open to seeking input and assistance from others. Recognizing few achievements are made in isolation, a great leader understands and harnesses the potential and value of their team members. Collaboration and empowerment are at the core of effective leadership, to foster an environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to shared success.

Leslie Gutierrez, Legal Contracts Manager

1.       What are the things you are doing to empower other women?

I have a large family composed of a lot of young girls and boys. Whenever we gather and the boys play a sport, I always encourage the girls to participate and remind them there is no limitation to their capabilities. While it might be something minor, women need to be empowered and encouraged from a very early age, so they can build confidence and courage in life. Overall, I love being a cheerleader to all women, especially at a professional level. Whether it is helping brainstorm next steps in their career or polishing a resume, I make it known they can come to me for help.

2.       Who is the most influential woman you know?

In life, sometimes we come across strong, influential people who leave a powerful impact in our lives. I was blessed to have met this person the day I was born: my mother. She is the most influential woman in my life, as she has taught me some of the most valuable life lessons. Though often timid and quiet, her morals and principles are what always served as an example. Her unconditional love and support has gotten me through some of the toughest times; she truly is my pillar. It is through her advice, teachings and determined character I am the woman I am today. It is my goal to always make her proud. I hope to one day be half of who she is and what she represents.

Margie Driscoll, Senior Manager, Account Management

1.       What are the things you are doing to empower other women?

As Co-Chair of the women's employee resource group, Women's Empowerment Network (W.E.N.), I can tap into my passion of women helping women. Our 2024 goals are: Deliver value-add career content and discussions to support women’s careers at Modivcare; Foster a culture of women supporting women within and beyond W.E.N.; Drive member engagement and grow membership; Position W.E.N. as a key resource in women’s professional growth at Modivcare.

2.       Describe your leadership style.

Collaborative. The power of group thoughts, other's views, expertise, and skills make every project, deliverable, etc. better. Everyone brings something to the table. It's on the leader to draw value out of each person.

Stay tuned for more features of women leaders who pave the way for our future as we celebrate Women’s History Month!