Survival Skills

By Megan S. WillmanLaura Rice describes herself as an idealist. After graduating from the University of Louisville’s Brandeis School of Law in 2004, she worked for the next nine years as a successful attorney in Louisville. “I loved being an advocate for people in dire circumstances, helping to empower my clients to stand up for themselves. I loved the courtroom and being a voice for disadvantaged people,” Laura says.She went to law school in order to make a positive change in the world, but after nearly a decade she found herself discouraged by the justice [...]

By Megan S. WillmanMary says playing the guitar brings her peace and calmness. Photos: Patti Hartog When Mary Frances was 15, her neighbor “Dirty” recruited her into the sex and adult entertainment industry. He bought her ice cream and promised to marry her one day. He did come back but not for marriage. Dirty pulled Mary into the sex trade where she remained for the next 35 years. “It all began with a milkshake,” Mary says. “I was a hungry kid with alcoholic parents. He told me what I wanted to hear, and I followed him.” [...]

By Megan S. Willman Amy Ayres does not shy away from conversation about dyslexia and attention-deficit disorder. Diagnosed with both at an early age, Amy was part of ECE (Exceptional Child Education), a JCPS program designed to meet the needs of students with educational disabilities. Because of her own classroom experiences, Amy knew that she wanted to become an educator who would focus on individualized instruction. In March 2017, Amy opened the doors of Lyndon Learning Childcare Center. “I believe that parents need to know how to educate and advocate for their kids and then be [...]

By Megan S. WillmanLaura Benson Jones is committed to raising kids to a higher level, and she takes that goal literally. Dismayed by the rising number of young people impacted by drug and alcohol use in our society, Laura decided to do what she could to help youth in our community make positive life choices.A professional pilot and flight instructor, Laura hopes that in sharing her love of aviation she can not only develop young pilots but can also pass along skills that will help teenagers make decisions that keep them safe and healthy. “I [...]

Do you have a mentor who has been instrumental in shaping your career and guiding you down the path to success? You can pass on some of her best advice to someone else at the Leadership Louisville 100 Wise Women event on June 28 which will focus on the value of mentor relationships. The event enables women leaders from various industries to come together and share ideas that will help them progress in their professions. If you have a mentor who is a great inspiration in your life, send a short note about her to [...]