New Directions celebrates success of the 4th annual EmpowerHER event

MOUNT VERNON — New Directions is proud to celebrate the success of the 4th Annual EmpowerHER Event, themed “Thrive Without Limits.”

The event, held in honor of International Women’s Day, was a vibrant celebration of the incredible women of Knox County, offering a space for women to connect, grow, and be inspired.

Over 300 women enjoyed an evening filled with opportunities to support women-owned small businesses, hear from an empowering featured panelist, and recognize remarkable women in the community.

“Tonight, we gathered as a community of strong, resilient, and courageous women—each bringing unique stories, strengths, and aspirations,” said Lindsey Lamp, New Directions executive director. “This event was more than a celebration; it was a reminder that we are limitless.”

The evening featured a dynamic panel of incredible women who embody resilience, leadership, and purpose. Panelists included:

• Christine Lindeman, owner of Alumni Roofing and The Shoppe on Main in Fredericktown.
• Lt. Detective Beth Marti, who supervises the Mount Vernon Police Department’s detective department and is an integral member of New Directions’ Sexual Assault Response Team.
• Dr. Maggie Somple, a pediatric doctor at Knox Community Hospital and recipient of the 2022 Heart Award
• Chris White, BSN, RN, forensic nurse, and Director of the Emergency Department at Knox Community Hospital, who also served as the panel moderator.

The panel explored themes of resilience, community support, and breaking barriers, inspiring attendees to embrace their strengths and empower one another.

Celebrating the award winners

EmpowerHER also honored extraordinary women in Knox County through the following awards:

EmpowHER Award: Celebrate a woman of inspiration whose achievements and influence empower others. Winner Margy Arck was nominated by her daughter, Mandy Jemison, for her kindness, selflessness, and unwavering leadership.

Mandy shared, ” Margy is a true inspiration to everyone she meets. She always puts others before herself with a heart full of kindness and selflessness. She leads by example, showing unwavering love, strength, and generosity in everything she does.”

Vision Builder Award: Nominate a woman with less than 10 years of experience who breaks barriers and makes a powerful impact. Winnie Skinner nominated winner Kristi Klinkner for breaking barriers as a businesswoman and mentor.

Winnie shared: “Kristi courage to take risks, her leadership, and her passion for mentorship make her the perfect candidate for this award. Kristi is not just building a business; she is breaking down barriers and inspiring others to dream bigger. She is truly reshaping the landscape for women in business and beyond.”

Grit and Grace Award: Honor a single mom who demonstrates unwavering strength and perseverance. Winner Nature McPeek was nominated by her daughter, Kelcy Fowler, for her resilience and dedication as a single mother.

Kelcy shared, “My mom demonstrates perseverance and leads by example in everything that she does. As a single mother, she has accomplished more than some do in a lifetime and deserves all the recognition and love in the world. She never gives up and not only shows support but is there every step of the way for anyone who needs help.”

Heart Award: Nominate a dedicated front-line worker who exemplifies compassion and resilience. Lauren Lochotzki nominated winner Chris White for her passion and commitment to helping others see their true worth.

Lauren shared “Chris has a passion for helping others see their true value and worth, while providing them with the best possible care! She helps others to bloom and see the light when they are at their darkest. Her passion, kindness and energy are contagious.”

Raising the Bar Award: Recognize a woman with 20+ years of experience who has consistently set the standard for excellence in her field. Natalie Welker nominated winner Kelly Welker for uplifting and mentoring women throughout her career.

Natalie shared, “Thanks to Kelly, many women have been encouraged and promoted to higher positions with more responsibilities and potential for advancement. Kelly has been a champion of those who need her help for as long as I’ve known her. Kelly has always been a positive influence on young women. She sets an example of what could be.”

Additionally, New Directions awarded two $2,500 Girl Power Scholarships to Kennedy Auker and Grace Humphrey for their inspiring reflections on using their “girl power” to influence their peers and communities.

Kennedy’s leadership and community involvement encouraged others to step into their power, while Grace’s determination to ride, learn, and plan “like a girl” highlights the beauty of authenticity over perfection.

A night of impact and inspiration

Throughout the event, attendees were reminded that thriving doesn’t happen in isolation—it happens when we stand together, uplift one another, and create spaces for all women to flourish.

“We have honored women who bloom boldly, breaking barriers and embracing their unique strengths,” said Lindsey Lamp, “But our work doesn’t stop here. It continues through each of us, in the ways we mentor, support, and empower others.”

New Directions challenges the community to take action: support a survivor, mentor a young woman, and create opportunities for all women to thrive without limits. Because when we commit to lifting each other, we don’t just survive—we thrive.

For more information about New Directions and future EmpowerHER events, visit www.newdirectionsknox.org or call 740-397-4357.

About New Directions

New Directions provides resources for the safety, healing, and freedom of individuals who have experienced domestic violence, sexual assault, or human trafficking while also offering preventive education to create an informed and supportive community. Through survivor-centered services and engaging prevention initiatives, New Directions envisions a future where everyone is empowered to engage in safe, respectful, and healthy relationships.