Connie Robinson

COO & Managing Partner, Diversity Today Consulting, The Gideon Group

I inspire people by my willingness to do what I ask of them. I believe people know that I have a genuine care and concern for them, their well-being and their success.

Why is honoring achievement important? How does it impact our business community?

Honoring achievement is crucial because it highlights the contributions of individuals who help build a vibrant, strong and diverse community. Recognizing women of achievement, in particular, has a significant impact on the business community by fostering leadership, cultivating a culture of collaboration, and transforming lives and communities. When we honor achievement, we elevate the visibility of women engaged in essential work, which in turn inspires others and strengthens our collective efforts.

The impact of the business community in honoring achievement helps eliminate barriers and inequities that women face in business. It is important that the business community is fully committed to honoring women as women in leadership have never been stronger.

The business community is a beneficiary of honoring women of achievement. It is imperative that the business community acknowledge, encourage and promote women of achievement and value their input and contributions.

What is the single most important thing you have learned throughout your career that would inspire others/other women?

Building trusting relationships is necessary in leadership and can inspire other women. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that women inspire each other, particularly when they unite to create stronger communities. Long-term change requires patience, and, in our ever-changing world, we are most inspired when we fully realize our potential and witness the powerful progress of women doing transformative work.

We live in a culture where effective communication and interpersonal skills are powerful and key leadership qualities that unlock inner potential. Effective communication skills combined with leadership skills support intentional career advancement. Throughout my career, I have learned that women do not fit a one-size-fits-all model. Embracing diversity and fostering supportive environments in the workplace is crucial for empowering women and driving significant progress.

What do you think we can do – now – to make a difference for young people/women in Arizona?

We can make a difference by being sources of knowledge and influence, empowering young people and women in Arizona. Creating a network of emerging leaders and providing spaces for programs that encourage meaningful conversations on prominent issues are vital steps. It’s crucial that we make a long-term commitment to ensuring a just and equitable future for young people and women.

We can also make a significant difference in the lives of young people and women by amplifying our voices as leaders and mentors. By actively engaging with women and girls, we can provide needed leadership development opportunities. This includes offering mentorship programs and creating supportive networks that foster growth and confidence. These efforts will not only improve their quality of life but also empower them to overcome barriers; achieve their goals; and ensure a brighter, more equitable future for all.

In A Few Words

  • What was the last course, certification or training you took to improve yourself professionally? I recently completed training on social change issues, focusing on the importance of framing connective discourse.
  • What would you say is a single characteristic OTHERS might attribute to you that defines your success? Inspirational
  • What is the one thing you feel you could work on professionally to be a greater success? Learning 
  • What is the one professional skill you have that has gotten you where you are today? Courage
  • What is the single greatest issue facing Arizona today? Quality education for all Arizonans 

About Me

My career has been shaped by working for Fortune 500 companies; with a foundation rooted in faith and mentorship, I pursued executive and management roles with determination and hard work. I hold a B.S. in management from Arizona State University, am a graduate of the W. K. Kellogg Leadership & Philanthropic Program and have more than 30 years of experience in human resources. As a graduate of Valley Leadership and the FBI Citizens’ Academy Alumni Association, I have the privilege of engaging with community leaders and understanding the challenges we face. 

I am proud to be a co-founder of 48 Arizona Women, Arizona’s Most Intriguing Women, which started as an official Arizona Centennial Project in 2010 to recognize the state’s most remarkable women having a remarkable impact in their communities, and of the Arizona Center for African American Resources, established in 2007 for the purpose of advocating for the needs of African Americans in Arizona. 

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