District Attorney Marian Ryan shared her thoughts on effective leadership.
Lowell – Lowell Community Charter Public School (LCCPS), a high-expectations charter school serving 815 students in pre-kindergarten through eighth grade in downtown Lowell, hosted its inaugural Young Women’s Leadership Summit on Friday, March 27, 2026, in The Overlook at LCCPS.
The event brought together 150 middle school students from three schools across Lowell for a truly meaningful and inspiring day focused on leadership, confidence, and opportunity.
The day featured an incredible lineup of programming, including two powerful keynote addresses from District Attorney Marian Ryan and State Auditor Diana DiZoglio, who shared their leadership journeys and encouraged students to find and use their voices.
In addition, more than a dozen female CEOs and community leaders participated in panel discussions, offering students real-world insights and inspiration across a wide range of fields.
At the conclusion of the program, students participated in a collaborative group art activity, led by local art curator Ellen Casazza, providing students with a creative and reflective opportunity to express what leadership means to them.
Nicholle and Caroline were two of eleven eighth-grade LCCPS’ students who served as emcees throughout the program.
The impact of this inaugural event was evident in the energy, engagement, and enthusiasm of students throughout the summit, and the keynote speakers and panelists made a lasting impression on students. Of the event and the speakers, students said:
“I learned that I’m not alone in this world and that everyone should be included. I should stand up when I see an issue in my community.” Linh, 6th grade, Butler MS
“It was so inspirational and memorable. I loved how encouraging it was and how it brought people up. The speaker who told her story about daycare was my favorite.” Amaya, 7th grade, STEM Academy
“I liked how all of the women told their own stories and their own experiences. State Auditor Diana DiZoglio’s story was very interesting and powerful.” Natalie, 8th grade, LCCPS
“It’s important to use your voice. You should use your voice to participate in advocating for others, having the courage to speak out no matter the situation.” Vitoria, 8th grade, Butler MS
Yamilette, an eighth-grade student at LCCPS, seemed to speak for all, when she said, “The Women’s Summit was a place where women could come together, learn about one another, and talk about our experiences. We all are family at the end of the day. And, someday, we will be heroes in the next generations for overcoming all that we go through. This summit reflected how strong, beautiful, and smart we are.”
LCCPS’ students and MA State Auditor Diana DiZoglio.
