BRIDGES Graduate Testimonials

Hear what our BRIDGES graduates have to say!

“I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I began my BRIDGES journey. I knew it would be an incredible learning experience, but I had no idea that by the time I got to November, I would have such a tremendous support network. All the time and effort I invested in this process is already well worth it.”
– Denise Lynch, UNC Charlotte

“BRIDGES connected me to a wonderful group of women within higher education, all at different stages of their careers. I am so grateful for the connections I formed with women from across North Carolina and value their experiences and insights. Through BRIDGES I have truly gained a support system of peers and a community I did not know I was missing!”
– Kelsey Axe, UNC Wilmington

“BRIDGES is so much more than a professional development program. The personal growth and level of connection with my BRIDGES sisters was certainly not expected but welcomed. They say, “sisters are different flowers from the same garden”, and I am so grateful to have been a part of the garden and to have met so many amazing flowers!”
– Holli Stillman, Western Carolina University

“The BRIDGES academic leadership program challenged me to critically evaluate my skills as an aspiring leader in higher education in a safe, welcoming, and judgment-free environment.  Not only did it introduce me to the range of training resources and expertise available in the UNC system; it has given me insight into my strengths and weaknesses through the Skillscope, created a social network of supportive peers, and encouraged me to grow as a transformational leader. I feel certain that I will continue to benefit from being part of the BRIDGES class and the community we have begun to build for one another.”
– Lida Cope, East Carolina University

“I feel very fortunate to have participated in the BRIDGES Program. BRIDGES provided opportunities for us to connect with, support, encourage, and learn from each other and a dynamic panel of experts that led the sessions. BRIDGES is an incredible program for women in higher education seeking to grow personally and professionally!”
– Laura Kuizin, UNC-Chapel Hill

“I was so grateful to be able to complete the program virtually because I have two small children and live in Western North Carolina. Equitable and accessible leadership development for women must take into account the complexity of our lives and BRIDGES did just that. Thank you BRIDGES!”
– Leah Hamilton, Appalachian State University

“Being part of the BRIDGES cohort was exactly the personal and professional experience I needed at the right time. The virtual weekend sessions were thoughtfully designed so that we had the opportunity to build connections at a time when I think many of us were feeling disconnected. I am better for having the BRIDGES experience.”
– Megan Karbley Krechel, UNC Greensboro

“From negotiating salary and cultivating peer mentors to understanding the state budget and crisis management, BRIDGES explored a wide range of topics in higher education. The program was much more than presentations about different leadership styles—it is a “deep dive” into one’s career goals and personal challenges. Through dialogue and reflection, I learned how to position myself in important conversations impacting my campus. I highly recommend it!”
– Michele Fazio, UNC Pembroke