ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: Ronicka Briscoe inspires with “Brave Women at Work”
November 7, 2024
By: Zaria Townsend, Staff Writer
(Photo courtesy of Zaria Townsend)
bestseller.
(Photo courtesy of Zaria Townsend)
Xavier alumna Ronicka Briscoe returned to New Orleanson Sept. 29 for a book signing as part of her tour promoting “Brave Women at Work: Lessons in Leadership,” an Amazon bestseller she co-authored. The event, part of a tour spanning Houston and New Orleans from Sept. 22 to Oct. 1, drew students, professionals, and community members who were eager to hear her insights on leadership and the challenges women face in their careers.
“It is critical to tell the stories and capture the unique challenges and experiences of women, particularly women of color and Black women, as they strive to advance their careers and reach leadership positions,” she said.
Townsend (left) with the book.
(Photo courtesy of Zaria Townsend)
Briscoe used nearly two decades of experience as an educator and scholar to shape the narratives that she included in her book. She said her book can be a strategic blueprint for future leaders and offers practical recommendations that draw on extensive research and her personal experiences.
Although leadership can seem to be an independent concept, Briscoe reminded her audience that it is important to know when to lean on others.
“A lot of times it is almost impossible for us to do everything that we do – from being a mother, a professional, a leader – without a strong support system,” she said.
Because support is important in leadership, Briscoe spoke about the difference between mentorship and sponsorship. She explained how mentorship is about seeking guidance whereas sponsorship requires going a step farther and actively advocating for each other.
This concept was particularly important to Dana Clark-Williams, an assistant principal at Hynes-UNO. “I was able to learn how to move from mentorship to sponsorship, and understand the levels of membership,” Clark-Williams said.
The event provided a platform for women at various stages of their careers to connect, exchange ideas and draw inspiration from one another.
“I got connected to so many powerful women in this space, and I am grateful to be here today,” said Gabriella Wicker, a psychology student at Xavier.
