About the Business Women's Council
Business Women’s Council underscores the importance of women in business and leadership roles. They do this by sponsoring guest speakers, conversation hours, and hosting mentoring programs. Business Women’s Council promotes the dialogue between faith and reason in a professional atmosphere. They act as an advocate for undergraduate women by creating interface opportunities with Catholic U’s Internship Programs to enhance opportunities for undergraduate women in business.
About Dr. Charmaine Yoest
Dr. Charmaine Yoest, with extensive experience in various political roles, currently serves as the Executive Director of the House Values Action Team on Capitol Hill. Previously, she held key positions in the White House, on a presidential campaign, and led a prominent national nonprofit. Her background includes directing domestic policy at a highly influential think tank, contributing to areas such as health care, welfare reform, education policy, family formation, women’s issues, and religious liberty.
Dr. Yoest has a notable history serving in the White House as the Associate Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy and as the Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. She has been a spokesperson on major TV networks, published in leading national publications, and provided testimony before the U.S. Congress.
A significant chapter in her career involved serving as President & CEO of Americans United for Life for over seven years, where she played a crucial role in advocating for the human right to life and advancing pro-life priorities. During her tenure, the organization prompted a Congressional Select Committee investigation, and she received the “Pro-Life Advocate of the Year'' award from Evangelicals for Life in her final year. Additionally, Dr. Yoest is a featured writer and co-author of "Mother in the Middle," a HarperCollins publication examining childcare policy.
"Cookies and Conversation" Event Overview
The event began with an introduction of Dr. Charmaine Yoest, who quickly engaged the audience by encouraging personal introductions. Dispensing her first piece of advice, "Never be afraid to take control of your surroundings" – she fostered a sense of openness among group members.
Prompting a closer gathering, Dr. Yoest then invited participants to share their favorite book and their most ambitious dreams, not limited by any constraints. This interactive approach set the stage for an insightful and personal discussion.
Dr. Yoest proceeded to weave three impactful stories from her life, organizing them into three essential takeaways:
- It is not about you.
- Nail down the center.
- Prioritize your mental, physical, and spiritual health.
Recognizing the subjectivity of these lessons, she urged attendees to self-reflect, encouraging them to understand the personal relevance of these concepts in their own lives.
Before receiving questions from the audience, Dr. Yoest shared an important quote she learned from her grandmother: "I am standing on the expectations corner, just waiting for what God will do." This statement served as a powerful reminder that, regardless of whether expectations are met, one can trust in a higher purpose. Dr. Yoest emphasized that God's plan transcends expectations, offering a profound perspective on life's journey.
The meeting was conducted with the enjoyment of Insomnia Cookies and further socializing.