Monica Brown and LaShante James honored at Norwalk "Elevate and Lead" Women's History Month program

Monica Brown, a Norwalk educator and doctoral candidate, delivered a keynote at "Elevate and Lead," a Women's History Month program presented by the City of Norwalk Commission on Gender Equity in partnership with the Norwalk School District. The program included student performances and the presentation of awards recognizing local women leaders.

The event opened with remarks from Christina Testabuzzi, chair of the City of Norwalk Commission on Gender Equity, and a welcome from Sandra Faye Owaiz, Deputy Superintendent of the Norwalk School District, who said the evening was meant "to honor women who uplift others and lead with purpose." Mayor Barbara Smith attended and spoke about leadership and supporting students.

Shannon O'Toole Gian Durko, a commission member and president of the Greater Norwalk Chamber of Commerce, presented the adult leadership award to LaShante James, citing her district leadership since 2016 and her work at Ponus Ridge, Rowan Middle School, and Bridging (transcript: "Bridal McMahon") McMahon. "Her presence is a powerful example of leadership, resilience, and excellence," O'Toole Gian Durko said, noting James's work with My Sister's Keeper and support for students who identify as transgender or gender diverse.

In her keynote, Monica Brown recounted growing up in the Bronx, starting in food service and later becoming a teacher, launching a coffee business (Kendawise Coffee), and pursuing doctoral study. Brown used an acrostic—"DREAM"—to frame her talk and urged the audience, especially young girls, not to be defined by others' low expectations. "Do remember everyone ain't meant to break you," Brown said, repeating the line as a refrain that framed her message about perseverance and self-worth.

The program featured student performances from district schools, including choral and dance pieces, and concluded with acknowledgments of organizers and volunteers. Organizers encouraged attendees to connect with community partners who staffed information tables in the atrium.

The program was presented by the City of Norwalk Commission on Gender Equity and the Norwalk School District as part of Women's History Month programming; no formal votes or board actions were reported at the event.