NeW is excited to announce that the winner of the High School Category for our 2026 Essay Contest is Emma Hurley, a student at Niagara Wheatfield High School in Sanborn, New York. Congratulations, Emma!

How did you hear about the 2026 NeW Essay Contest, and why did you choose to participate in it? 

I originally learned about the NeW Essay Contest through social media. I’ve always loved American history, so the essay topic immediately caught my eye and felt like a great opportunity to write about something I’m genuinely passionate about.

What was your favorite part about writing this essay?

My favorite part of writing this essay was reflecting on how the ideas in the Declaration of Independence have lasted over 250 years and still hold meaning today. The prompt asked me to consider what in our founding documents has stood the test of time, including the meaning of “unalienable rights.” As I was writing, I kept replaying in my head the moment that my mom recently took her oath of citizenship. It taught me that the rights and freedoms described in the Declaration are not something distant, but something real that people still value and seek out today. Being able to connect the 250th anniversary of our country to a personal experience made the essay more meaningful to me and gave me a deeper appreciation for the personal responsibility that comes with those rights. 

Why is NeW important?

NeW is important because it provides a community for women to engage with conservative ideas, especially in environments like college campuses where those perspectives are often underrepresented. It encourages young women to think seriously about the principles that shape our country and to engage with them in a meaningful way. As America approaches its 250th anniversary, that kind of engagement really matters. Organizations like NeW help make sure these conversations continue with the next generation by giving young women the opportunity to develop their own understanding of these ideas and recognize the role they can play in preserving them for the future.

Read Emma’s winning essay in the Washington Examiner.

NeW is excited to announce that the winner of the College Category for our 2026 Essay Contest is Dameiya McMillian, a student at Bishop State Community College in Mobile, Alabama. Congratulations, Dameiya!

How did you hear about the 2025 NeW Essay Contest and why did you choose to participate in it?

I found out about the easy contest through social media. I chose to participate because I wanted to share my thoughts and take advantage of the opportunity.

What was your favorite part about writing this essay?

My favorite part about writing this essay was being able to express how I felt and be creative while doing it.

Why is NeW important? 

NeW is important because it gives young people the opportunity!

Read Dameiya’s winning essay in the Washington Examiner.

The post NeW Announces Winners of 2026 Essay Contest appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

Here are some common mistakes that can send mixed signals to your older team members, as well as tips to make sure you’re speaking the language of professionalism in any workplace.  

• Multitasking or looking at your phone during meetings – While you might just be trying to multitask, this may signal that you are distracted or uninterested. It’s best to put the phone away, and if you’re taking notes, indicate that at the start of the meeting.  

• Keeping your camera off during virtual meetings – I’ve seen a lot of videos online where younger workers choose to keep their cameras off during meetings if they aren’t presenting, under the guise of privacy or efficiency. This often signals that you are disengaged or can even be interpreted as disrespectful. Eye contact is important, and visibility is often equated with professionalism. Keep your camera on during meetings unless you are specifically told otherwise.  

• Casual language and tone (particularly in writing) – Would it be faster to respond with just an “ok” and a thumbs-up emoji? Possibly. But it can also be interpreted as disrespectful or unpolished. Even punctuation can carry different weight across generations (like how you don’t type in all CAPS unless you want to sound like you’re yelling something). Respond to emails with warmth and use your writing to build relationships. 

• Using AI without disclosure – I’ll admit I’m not an early adopter of AI tools, and there is much to be said about the efficiency and creativity that AI can bring to the table. But if you’re not disclosing the tools, it can come off as inauthentic and sometimes even lazy. Don’t pass AI ideas off as uniquely your own, and be open about when and how you use those tools.  

• Dressing informally (even while virtual) – I get it, you want to be comfortable! And who cares what you look like as long as the work is done, right? Eh, not always. The way you dress is interpreted as a sign of respect and seriousness. Skip the hoodies or pajamas on your work-from-home days. For in-person office days or events, confirm expectations and dress appropriately. 

This blog was written by NeW Vice President of Programs, Alexis Flowers.

The post Mixed signals: Understanding the Unwritten Rules of the Workplace  appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

What makes it even more frustrating is the lack of feedback. Honestly, it can start to feel like a weird mix of applying to grad school and dating. You’re putting yourself out there, trying to make a good impression, and hoping someone sees your potential. And when you don’t hear back, it’s so easy to start overthinking every little detail. Was my resume not good enough? Should I have answered that question differently? Am I just not qualified?  

While I can’t review your individual application (although resume review is a benefit for NeW National members), the truth is that many applicants are making small, avoidable mistakes without even realizing it—and those errors or missteps can quietly cost you opportunities.  

Here are some common mistakes that I’ve seen on applications over the past decade, so you can make sure to avoid them and put your best foot forward: 

• Not following the application instructions: This should be straightforward, but we see it often. Make sure to read the instructions thoroughly, and if the application asks for anything, be sure to include it! Failure to follow the instructions can lead to automatic disqualification. 

• Typos: Your application should be your best work. If it’s full of spelling errors or typos, it shows you either didn’t take it seriously or have issues with work quality—either way, a definite red flag. Review your application multiple times, and then have a friend read over your resume and application to check for errors. 

• Having a three-page (or more!) entry-level resume: I might hurt some feelings here, but it needs to be said—your resume should be one page, maximum, if you are within the first five years of your career. This sometimes comes down to oversharing: a potential employer doesn’t need to know every club you’ve ever joined, unrelated hobbies, or high school achievements—stick to the highlights! Bonus tip: Make it easy to read. It should be chronological, and please no designs or clip art (unless you’re a true creative and applying for a marketing or communications role). 

• Zero online presence: You don’t have to have a popular YouTube channel, but you should have a professional LinkedIn page. Include a professional headshot, and update it at least quarterly with relevant work or internship information. 

• Applying and then being slow to respond: It can take some time for a hiring manager to get back to you, but once they do, be sure to respond quickly. Taking days to respond can signal that you’re just not that interested in the role. 

This blog was written by NeW Vice President of Programs Alexis Flowers.

The post The job application mistakes hiring managers won’t tell you about… appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

If you’re willing to put in just a little extra effort, you can quickly separate yourself from the pack. 

Here are several practical ways to distinguish yourself in today’s job market. 

1. Send a Handwritten Thank-You Note After Your Interview

Almost no one does this anymore, which is exactly why it’s effective. 

After an interview, most candidates send a quick email thank-you (if anything at all). But taking the time to write and mail a handwritten note shows professionalism, thoughtfulness, and genuine interest in the role. 

A handwritten note communicates several important things: 

• You pay attention to details 

• You value relationships 

• You are willing to go the extra mile

Your note doesn’t need to be long. Simply thank the interviewer for their time, mention something specific you discussed, and reiterate your interest in the position. In a world dominated by digital communication, the personal touch of a handwritten message is memorable, and memorable candidates get hired.  

Pro tip: Invest in stationery that reflects your personal brand or that has your monogram. I’m always impressed by people who go the extra mile and then some.

2. Invest in Professional Development

Employers want candidates who are actively improving themselves, not just waiting for opportunities to appear. 

Participating in professional development programs signals initiative and intellectual curiosity. It shows that you care about growing your skills, expanding your network, and learning from others.  

There are many excellent programs available, including those offered by organizations like Network of Enlightened Women and America’s Future. 

These kinds of organizations offer fellowships, training programs, networking opportunities, and leadership development that can significantly strengthen your resume. They also connect you with professionals across industries who can provide mentorship, career guidance, and job opportunities. 

Beyond the credential itself, being involved in these communities shows employers that you’re engaged, motivated, and serious about your career. 

Pro tip: Make it a point to go to one in-person and one virtual networking event per month. The more you flex those “networking muscles,” the easier it will be. 

3. Treat LinkedIn Like a Living Resume

Your LinkedIn profile is often the first thing an employer will look at after reviewing your application. Make sure it works for you. 

A strong LinkedIn presence should include: 

• A professional headshot 

• A clear headline that reflects your skills or career focus 

• A well-written summary explaining what you do and what you’re interested in 

• Regular engagement with posts, articles, or professional discussions
   

But LinkedIn is not just a digital resume; it’s a networking platform. When used intentionally, LinkedIn becomes a powerful tool for building relationships and discovering opportunities that never get publicly posted. 

Pro tip: Don’t be weird on LinkedIn. The last thing someone wants is a cold DM. Start building community in groups, by leaving thoughtful comments on posts, and THEN once you’ve gone back and forth with someone, DM them to ask for a professional coffee, etc.  

4. Don’t Ignore Facebook for Networking 

Many people assume that Facebook is no longer relevant for professional networking, but interestingly, it’s seeing a resurgence among Millennials and Gen Z. 

Private groups, professional communities, alumni networks, and industry-specific forums are thriving on the platform. In many cases, job opportunities and collaborations appear there before they ever reach traditional job boards. 

Facebook groups can be particularly valuable because they feel more conversational and community-driven than other platforms. People share advice, job openings, and introductions in ways that feel much more personal. 

If you’re intentional about how you use it, Facebook can become an unexpected but powerful networking tool. 

Pro-tip: I ignored my personal Facebook account for almost a year. As a marketer, I should have known better. I’ve been on the platform for *gasp* almost two decades and shouldn’t have ignored such a big audience. Now, I post a mix of professional updates and pure fun things.  

5. Build Relationships, Not Just Applications

Perhaps the most important thing to remember is that jobs are often filled through relationships rather than online applications. 

Instead of simply sending out dozens of resumes, focus on building genuine connections: 

• Attend networking events 

• Join professional organizations 

• Reach out to people for informational interviews 

• Stay in touch with mentors and colleagues
   

The more people who know you and know the value you bring, the more likely you are to hear about opportunities early. Careers are built through communities!  

This blog was written by Chloe Anagnos, Chief Marketing Officer at America’s Future. 

The post Why Thoughtful Professionals Still Win the Job Search  appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

Every generation produces athletes who rise beyond the soccer field or the basketball court to become symbols of something greater than the game itself. Riley Gaines is one of those athletes. Her story transcends her time competing in the NCAA. It is one of advocacy, courage, and the evolving conversation around fairness and opportunity in women’s athletics. Gaines has become part of a national cultural moment that continues to shape how American society views women’s sports. Gaines is an outstanding example of what women should strive for in their daily lives: fairness and equal opportunity.

Gaines first gained national attention as a competitive Division I swimmer at the University of Kentucky. Like many athletes, her journey began with years of early-morning pool practices that instilled discipline and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Competing at the collegiate level required both physical and mental resilience. Gaines built a reputation as a dedicated competitor who took pride in representing her team and the legacy of women’s athletics.

However, Riley Gaines’s influence multiplied when she began speaking publicly about her experience as a college swimmer in the 21st century. Gaines emerged as a prominent voice in the debate surrounding fairness, opportunity, and policy in women’s sports. By sharing her perspective, she helped bring national attention to questions and sentiments that many athletes felt had not been publicly articulated. Her advocacy sparked conversations across universities, athletic organizations, and legislatures. Supporters view her as someone who stood up for the integrity of women’s competition and the opportunities created through decades of progress in women’s athletics. For many young female athletes, her message resonated deeply: the spaces created for women in sports deserve thoughtful protection and discussion.

Gaines’s impact is undeniable. She helped move a conversation that once existed mostly in policy rooms into the public square. Athletes, parents, coaches, and fans began engaging more actively in conversations about fairness, inclusion, and the future of women’s sports.

Her story also highlights a larger truth about modern athletes: today’s competitors often become advocates. In an era shaped by social media and constant public dialogue, athletes are no longer confined to their performance in competition. They are increasingly participants in cultural and social conversations that affect their sports and communities. Gaines embraced that role, recognizing that her experiences gave her a platform and a responsibility to speak. For many women, particularly young athletes, her example demonstrates the power of using one’s voice. Women’s sports have long been shaped by individuals willing to challenge norms and push for recognition, from the impact of Title IX to the growth of professional women’s leagues. Each generation contributes its own voices to the ongoing effort to ensure that women’s athletic opportunities remain strong and equitable.

The legacy of Riley Gaines will ultimately be defined not only by what she achieved in the water but also by the conversations she helped ignite above ground. Her story is a reminder that sports are never just about scores or finishes; they are also about the communities, opportunities, and principles that competition represents. As women’s athletics continue to evolve, athletes’ voices will remain essential in shaping the future. Gaines’s journey shows how one athlete’s experiences can ripple far beyond the pool, influencing dialogue, inspiring supporters, and leaving a lasting mark on the story of women’s sports.

At only 25 years old, Riley Gaines’s story is still unfolding. But her legacy, centered on advocacy, conviction, and the belief that women’s sports matter, has already become part of the larger narrative of modern athletics.

This blog was written by NeW Ambassador, Abby Ayres.

The post Her Story, Her Legacy: The Impact of Riley Gaines on Women’s Sports  appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

One woman who has transformed the way I think about journalism is Mary Margaret Olohan. In a media landscape where it is the norm to avoid controversy, she has built her early career by doing the opposite. To Olohan, journalism is both a profession and a vocation. She covers the stories others shy away from.

Olohan began reporting at the Daily Caller, covering politics, culture, and religious liberty.  She reported later for the Daily Signal. Then, she moved on to report for the Daily Wire to report some of the biggest cultural debates happening in the country.

In 2024, Mary Margaret Olohan published her first book, DeTrans: True Stories of Escaping the Gender Ideology Cult. She tells the stories of people who detransitioned and had their experiences rejected by medical “experts” and mainstream media. The book was powerful; it gave Detransitioners a voice and forced a conversation that many in politics and the media weren’t willing to have.

That same year, I had the chance to meet Mary Margaret Olohan and hear her speak at the Network of enlightened Women’s annual Leadership Retreat. Hearing her speak about why she chose to pursue these stories left a lasting impression on me. Olohan emphasized how important it is to tell the truth, even when the truth is unpopular. That stuck with me.

Today, Mary Margaret Olohan is the Daily Wire’s first-ever White House correspondent. Her early career path—which is still unfolding—is a reminder that women who work in media don’t have to follow the same script as their predecessors to make an impact. The most important journalism comes from the reporter who is willing to ask the questions others won’t. And strong and principled journalism might just land you in the James S. Brady Briefing Room.

This blog was written by NeW Ambassador Leona Salinas. 

The post Her story, Her legacy: Mary Margaret Olohan appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

A barrier-breaker for women in politics, Condoleezza Rice has spent her life advocating for liberty with professionalism—in the political science department at Stanford University and as Secretary of State and National Security Advisor under President George W. Bush.

Condoleezza Rice grew up in a hostile, segregated environment in Birmingham, Alabama, with limited opportunities. But her reliance on her faith and family helped her pursue a PhD and reach positions that other women could not.  

Throughout her career in high-stress roles, she has maintained a calm presence under pressure and political scrutiny, especially during 9/11 and the Iraq War. 

In her book, Democracy: Stories from the Long Road to Freedom, Rice illustrates the transformative power of democracy through her stories of influencing foreign leaders. Rice has continued to use her positions to achieve rights for women across all nations by being a voice for the voiceless.  

This blog was written by NeW Ambassador Katherine Mickelson 

The post Her story, Her legacy: Condoleezza Rice appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

One of the first things she said was simple: check your bank account every day. Not once a week. Not just when you’re nervous. Every single day. At first, that sounds extreme, but her point made so much sense. When you look at your account daily, you stop being scared of it. You become aware. Money isn’t this emotional, overwhelming thing anymore.  

She also talked about having an emergency fund, but she explained it in a way that really stuck with me. In college, most of us aren’t fully on our own yet. So instead of only thinking of savings as an “emergency” fund, she thought of hers as a dream fund. I loved that. She didn’t want money to be the only reason she had to take a job. She wanted freedom. She even shared that she used Amazon stock as a safety net when she started her business. The goal wasn’t to be rich. The goal was to have options. 

That’s really what the whole session came down to: money is permission. Permission to do the things you want to do with your life. Money isn’t the end goal. It’s a tool. The question we should be asking is, what do I want my money to allow me to do? 

She also reminded us that financial wellness is a habit. It doesn’t magically get easier when you make more money. In fact, it can get harder because it becomes easier to spend. Once you have more, you’ll find more ways to use it. That’s why building good habits now matters. 

One practical tip she shared was reviewing spending every week. She personally uses Excel and sits down to look at what was spent. The goal isn’t to feel guilty. It’s to be aware. She and her husband even talk about certain purchases before they make them. That pause helps them stay on the same page. 

Another big takeaway was thinking about trade-offs. If you buy the shiny purse, that’s okay, but maybe that means eating ramen or having six roommates. Every choice has a trade-off. We just have to be honest with ourselves about what we value most. Comparison can be so easy, especially with social media, but we really do know what’s best for our own lives. 

She also talked about being smart and a little defensive with your money. Influencers are constantly trying to sell us something. Her mental trick? Assume the person selling it is keeping the tags on and returning it. That perspective helps you slow down before clicking “buy.” Since we can order anything online in seconds, there’s no natural barrier stopping money from leaving our account. We have to create that pause ourselves. 

On the more technical side, she encouraged us to maximize benefits like a 401(k) match and an HSA if we have access to them. Compounding works best when you start early, but you have to be willing to put money in. And if you have credit card debt, focus on paying that off first if the interest is higher than what you’d earn investing. That’s just being practical. 

She also encouraged us to negotiate. Not just salary, but flexibility, vacation days, or work-from-home options. One thing she said that really stood out was, “No one is going to fight for you if you don’t fight for yourself.” That applies to money and so much more. 

One of my favorite parts of the session was her optimism about Gen Z. We have so many opportunities. There are countless ways to make money today. Tools like AI can save time and help us work smarter. The only real limit is our time.

This blog post was written by Chloe Simmons, the Communications Associate at the Network of enlightened Women. 

The post Financial Wellness Session Recap with Mattie Duppler appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

Our interns come from a variety of schools and backgrounds, and each brings strong leadership skills, professionalism, and a passion for strengthening conservative ideas in today’s culture.

Meet Evyn Cox, our Spring Programs Intern! Evyn is a Sophomore at The University of Kansas.

“I was interested in interning for NeW because I was drawn to its mission of empowering young female leaders and inspiringmeaningful change within communities. I wanted to be part of an organization that shares my values of kindness and confidence, and I admire how NeW provides a supportive environment where young women are encouraged to grow, lead, and uplift one another. “

Meet Regan Keefer, our Spring Communications Intern! Regan is a Junior at Shepherd University.

“I was very interested in NeW after attending the Anniversary Reception this past October and wanted to get involved. I found on the website that they have an internship program and decided to apply for their communications Internship, since I am very interested in working in Communications after I graduate college. Campus activism is also fairly new to me; I’ll be frank, I’m prior military so I got a “late-start” on college and have never been super active on college campuses, but I hope to change that this coming semester. I was, and still am, interested in campus activism-driven organizations and learning how they operate to encourage students to become members and help current members succeed. “

Meet Sofia Manina, our Spring Chapters Intern! Sofia is a Sophomore at George Fox University.

“I was interested in interning for NeW because I think that it’s really important to encourage more women to engage and want to be involved in the conservative movement, and to help create a space where women can come together to learn and discuss current issues. I wanted to be a part of a community that supports women’s voices and strengthens their confidence on campus, and that’s what you get when you’re a part of NeW.”

The post Meet NeW’s Spring 2026 Interns appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.

Social media is full of products that are supposed to help you look and feel like a better version of yourself. But self-care isn’t just about red-light masks or vibration plates—it’s about reducing your stress so that your future self can have peace of mind.  

Sometimes self-care is doing the uncomfortable thing now so that you relax and reap the benefits later. We know this to be true about exercise or healthy eating, but it also applies to your finances.  

If it isn’t already, I’d like to encourage you to make financial wellness part of your regular self-care routine. What could that look like?  

• Know your numbers: Check your bank, loan, and credit card accounts frequently. Remember that information is power, and regular audits can lead to fewer surprises.  
• Let go of any shame or awkwardness surrounding your financial situation: You might have made some poor or uninformed choices in the past, and honestly, that happens to everyone.  Put some boundaries in place to make better decisions in the future. Is there anyone in your life (a family member or close friend) who you think manages their money particularly well? Talk to them and ask advice! Money shouldn’t be a taboo subject that we avoid discussing, as long as you pick an appropriate time and place. 
• Spend some time in self-reflection: What actually matters to you? How can you use money as a tool to further your goals? Budgets aren’t punishment, they create room for you to find joy and prioritize the things that are important to you! Simply shifting your mindset can work wonders.  
• Consider ways to give back: This might sound counterintuitive, but hey—I’m not a financial advisor. Tithing and being generous with the money God has blessed me with is a tenant of my personal faith. If that’s something important to you and your faith, I’d encourage you to act on that now, and not wait until you reach a certain financial comfort level. I’d argue that being generous with your time and resources is good for the soul, and also helps to build gratitude.  

The focus on self-care is all about investing in your future self. What can you do today so that you are the healthiest, best version of yourself in twenty years? Your next step in that direction might just involve a spreadsheet. 

This blog was written by Alexis Flowers, the Vice President of Programs at The Network of enlightened Women. 

The post Financial Wellness as a Form of Self-Care appeared first on Network of Enlightened Women.