Thinking 10 Years Ahead - by Willow McVeigh, class of 2010

When I first considered applying for the Emerge Maine program I was somewhat hesitant.  I heard about the program in the summer from a recent graduate and did some research into the program.  Then I talked myself out of it, ‘You can’t run for office’ I told myself.  A month later, still thinking about the program, I saw an Emerge Maine advisory board member at an event and asked her if I should still apply even though I probably would not run for office for another ten years.  Her immediate enthusiasm about the program was all I needed to make my final decision.

Almost eight months after that conversation, I consider myself lucky to be a part of the Emerge Maine network.  The program has provided us with the skills and confidence to embrace public speaking, interviews, fundraising and whatever challenges a campaign may throw our way.  We have learned that campaigning is about listening and about being yourself.  Most importantly, the program has provided us with a network of motivated, skilled, successful women, who each have their own wealth of experience to share.  Through the program, I was able to meet the woman running for State Representative in my district. 

When I volunteered to be her campaign manager a month ago, I thought to myself ‘What are you saying…you don’t know how to run a campaign’.  Yet as I sat in class a few weeks ago working to define my campaign message, I realized that I did have what it takes and not just to work behind the scenes, but to actually run.  Even though I may not run for office for another decade (or more), I know that when I do, I will have the confidence, skills and the network of supportive women behind me to help me succeed, thanks to Emerge and the women who make this program strong!

Willow McVeigh

Emerge Maine 2010