On October 18, 2024, the Women Warriors Summit (WWS) returned to Huntington, West Virginia, gathering women from across Appalachia to ignite inspiration, share experiences, and build the tools needed to create purposeful, fulfilling lives. Led by Wing 2 Wing Co-Founder and First Lady of Marshall University, Alys Smith, this year’s event embraced the theme of “the power of productivity.” This focus on productivity, designed to encourage women to seize control of their daily lives and prioritize meaningful pursuits, marked an evolution from the summit’s inaugural year.
A Journey of Growth and Impact
Since its inception in 2023, the Women Warriors Summit has blossomed into a signature event, drawing attendees from all walks of life who seek to connect, grow, and advocate for one another. The first WWS focused on empowerment and unity, giving women the courage to engage openly on topics of equality and community upliftment. Featuring voices like Nicole Kidman and Crucial Conversations co-author Emily Gregory, the 2023 summit planted the seeds for the inclusive, empowering environment that participants have come to cherish.
Building on that foundation, this year’s summit shifted the conversation towards productivity—helping women streamline their priorities and develop strategies to foster greater agency in both their personal and professional lives.
Funded by the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, Encova Insurance, and many other local sponsors, WWS 2024 featured a diverse group of women and allies, including Wing 2 Wing Co-Founder Brad D. Smith, highlighting the importance of community and the power of embracing our true potential.
As Alys Smith shared, “Last year showed us the power of gathering together, and this year, we’ve created a space for women to gain practical skills that help them set meaningful intentions and take actionable steps forward.”
Highlights From the 2024 Summit
The 2024 Summit expanded its offerings, bringing together a lineup of accomplished women to inspire and guide attendees through integrative workshops and discussions.
- Keynote by Trisha Yearwood: Country music artist Trisha Yearwood, known for her multifaceted career as an artist, author, and entrepreneur, shared her journey of resilience and reinvention. Yearwood emphasized the importance of finding passion in each pursuit and encouraged attendees to embrace their unique paths with confidence and determination.
- Soledad O’Brien as emcee: Returning to the summit as emcee, journalist and entrepreneur Soledad O’Brien shared her insights on productivity, underscoring the value of setting clear goals and using one’s time intentionally. O’Brien expressed her excitement to once again champion the stories and voices of women dedicated to making an impact.
- Panel discussions and local leaders: This year’s panel discussions featured a blend of national voices and Appalachian leaders, offering perspectives on productivity, resilience, and personal growth. Speakers included Katie Kopp, clinical psychologist for the Department of Veterans Affairs; Diane Flynn, CEO of Reboot Accel; Dr. Juli Fulks, Marshall University’s head women’s basketball coach; and Cindy Carlisle, executive VP and CHRO at Foot Locker. Each speaker contributed their unique insights, creating a tapestry of knowledge and experience that resonated with attendees.
- Workshops for purpose-driven living: Among the sessions was “Getting Things Done,” an interactive workshop that guided attendees through methods to boost productivity, build trust, and create efficient communication habits. These skills, rooted in practical social science, equip participants to navigate both professional challenges and personal goals with newfound clarity.
A Commitment to the Women of Appalachia
At its heart, the Women Warriors Summit is a reflection of Alys Smith’s commitment to uplifting women across Appalachia. Through her work with the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, Alys has championed initiatives in education, entrepreneurship, and community development. Her vision for WWS is one where women are encouraged to take hold of their futures, empowered by community support, and emboldened by practical tools and strategies to reach their aspirations—no matter how big or small they are.
As the Women Warriors Summit grows, so does its mission. The summit’s emphasis on productivity this year signals a new phase of growth, one that the Wing 2 Wing Foundation and Alys Smith are excited to nurture and expand in the years to come. Looking ahead, the summit will continue to provide Appalachian women with the resources, support, and encouragement they need to make purposeful strides in their lives.
For details on future events, sponsorship opportunities, and how you can get involved, visit the official Women Warriors Summit website.
If you’d like to connect with Alys Smith for speaking requests, media interviews, or topics related to ensuring women’s equality across Appalachia, fill out this form or connect with her via LinkedIn.