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GPS Alumnae Panel Inspires Students
Six alumnae returned to campus for a panel in celebration of Women's History Month
On Friday, March 7, GPS welcomed back six remarkable alumnae for an engaging Women's History Month panel, where they shared insights on their careers, challenges, and the impact of their GPS education. The panel, held in the Frierson Theatre, highlighted the diverse paths these women have taken and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
A Powerful Lineup of Speakers
The panel featured:
- Teresa Lawrence-Phillips ’76 – Former athletic director and educator at Tennessee State University
- Maria Balais ’90 – Director of Programs for the Greater Women's Business Council
- Marshall Persinger ’77 – Acclaimed film and television producer
- Shelby Dooley Mullins ’13 – Fine jewelry designer and entrepreneur
- Chandler Key-Logan ’13 – Quality management and manufacturing leader
- Whitney Bell ’06 – Communications expert in sports and entertainment
Lessons in Leadership and Growth
Each panelist reflected on how GPS shaped them into the leaders they are today. Maria Balais ’90 emphasized the importance of the intrinsic leadership skills and values that define GPS students:
"Things that you find here at GPS—like the Honor Code, your traditions, the history—those things that you remember 35 years down the road that ground you, that connect you for generations, speak to your values when you leave here. When you find each other out in the world years later, they tie your values together and form your leadership, your integrity, and your ethics.”
Meanwhile, Marshall Persinger ’77 spoke about the power of persistence in the male-dominated entertainment industry:
"I never accepted that I was different from any of the guys in the room."
For Shelby Dooley Mullins ’13, creativity and confidence have been key to her success:
"Don’t be afraid to be true to yourself."
Words of Wisdom for the Next Generation
One of the strongest themes of the discussion was embracing challenges and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone while maintaining your identity. Chandler Key-Logan ’13 encouraged students to believe in their capabilities, stating:
"If you’re yourself at the end of the day, you’ll be able to shine."
Whitney Bell ’06 reminded students that a humble confidence is a key factor in long-term success:
"You want to show you’re capable, but part of being capable is being confident enough to ask for help when you need it."
A Lasting Impact
The panel left students feeling inspired and motivated to pursue their own unique paths. Teresa Lawrence-Phillips ’76 reminded them to do it fearlessly:
"One of the biggest mistakes I’ve made in my career is having fear. You can’t do your best if you are fearful."
With parting advice ranging from being present and intentional to taking advantage of everything GPS has to offer, students left the event energized by the stories and advice shared, proving that the GPS sisterhood extends far beyond graduation.
Watch the full panel discussion here: GPS Women's History Month Panel
