AWL Alumni Spotlight

Deb Lecklider

“The AWL experience was transformative in my leadership journey and came at the perfect time. It deepened my understanding of how the business world operates, sharpened my ability to inspire and empower others, and reinforced the value of leading with passion while always focusing on people.”

Meet Deb

President/Owner at DRLA & Associates
Professional Development Coordinator at Indiana Association of Public School Superintendents, IAPSS

We asked Deb a series of questions to get to know her better.

Here are her responses…

What did the AWL experience mean to you in terms of your journey as a leader?
The AWL experience was transformative in my leadership journey and came at the perfect time, as I was transitioning from higher education to a full-time consulting business. It deepened my understanding of how the business world operates, sharpened my ability to inspire and empower others, and reinforced the value of leading with passion while always focusing on people.

Describe the benefits of the AWL experience.
The benefits of AWL are multifaceted and deeply align with one of my core values of focusing on people. It fosters a supportive and empowering community where women leaders can share experiences, insights, and encouragement. My commitment to developing women and underrepresented leaders has become a guiding principle in my work, shaping how I support and empower business and education leaders to drive meaningful, lasting change.

What was it about AWL that made you feel you had an ROI from the experience?
AWL provided an incredible return on investment by equipping me with practical leadership tools and strategies that I could immediately apply in my work. The supportive network of inspiring women leaders, combined with the opportunity to reflect on my leadership style and goals, reinforced my confidence and clarity during a pivotal career transition. The experience not only enhanced my ability to lead effectively but also deepened my commitment to empowering others and creating lasting personal and professional growth.

What would you say to someone considering the AWL experience?
Don't you want to invest in yourself? I would wholeheartedly encourage anyone considering the AWL experience to take the leap. AWL offers a unique opportunity to grow as a leader, surrounded by a phenomenal community of inspiring women. If you are looking to build confidence, clarity, and lasting relationships, AWL is an experience that will empower you in ways you never imagined.

I feel like I am fulfilling my purpose when... I help a leader transition to a desired position.

My favorite way to spend an afternoon by myself is... watching Game Day or the Hallmark Channel (I know...really...).

The kind of work I’m most passionate about is... networking, connecting, and inspiring others to do great things.

To me, leadership is... all about people!

Something that makes my life ridiculously fun is... my amazing family! My husband Mike keeps me on my toes with his energy and love for sports and golf—trying to keep up with him is a fun adventure in itself. My son Chase and his wife Liza are the perfect parents for our high school grandson, Landon. My daughter Ryann and her husband Mat are family focused raising our grandson Owen, with baby girl Lennon arrive soon to add even more excitement. With half of us in Indianapolis and the other half in California we treasure every moment together. We unite frequently and “fun” doesn’t even begin to describe it—it’s magic filled with laugher, love, and great memories.

The values/behaviors that are most important to me are... focusing on people, empowering leaders, and developing others to find their why!

How I would like to impact the world right now is... building the next generation of leaders from the side—it is time to lift others to continue this important work and offer support when needed (only when asked!)

Previous
Previous

Michele, Sr. Director at Roche