TransformationThrough EmBe’s Women’s Leadership Program
Before stepping into her newest role as Director of Siouxland Libraries, Alysia Boysen knew she wanted to continue growing as a leader—but she also knew she couldn’t do it alone.
When she first applied for EmBe’s Women’s Leadership Program (WLP), her goal was simple: strengthen her leadership skills while building connections with other women navigating similar professional paths.
“I wanted to continue growing as a leader, but also build a network of like-minded women,” Alysia shared. “I knew I couldn’t accomplish either of those things on my own. I needed a structured environment and a community to help me get there.”
Through EmBe’s Leading Me and Leading With programs, Alysia found exactly that. While the curriculum strengthened her leadership skills, the relationships she built became one of the most meaningful parts of the experience.
“I now have a network of incredible women from both programs that I continue to connect with,” she said. “They’ve been an invaluable resource on my professional journey—offering support, advice, and a shared understanding of what it means to lead.”
Participating in the Women’s Leadership Program helped Alysia confront something many women leaders experience: the inner critic that questions whether they’re ready for the next step.
For Alysia, the program became a turning point as she considered applying for her leadership role at Siouxland Libraries.
“It was about owning my leadership story and challenging my inner critic,” she explained. “Before I could convince anyone else I was ready for a promotion, I had to believe it myself.”
Through the program, she learned to recognize her strengths, reflect on past successes, and confidently articulate the value she brings to leadership.
“The programs were a significant first step,” she said. “They gave me the tools to identify my strengths and confidently express them.”
One of Alysia’s biggest surprises during the program was discovering the breadth of women leaders already shaping the Sioux Falls community.
“I knew Sioux Falls had strong leaders, but I was genuinely surprised by the number of great women leaders here,” she shared. “Our cohort revealed a vast network of successful women from healthcare and finance to nonprofits and public service.”
This realization shifted her perspective.
“It changed my mindset from one of scarcity to one of abundance,” she said. “I wasn’t entering leadership alone—I was joining an incredible network of women ready to help.”
Those connections extended beyond the classroom. Through the program, Alysia connected with mentors and peers who continue to influence her leadership journey today, including members of her cohort and like-minded professionals.
“Having someone who had gone through a similar professional journey gave me confidence navigating the road ahead,” Alysia said. “It reminded me I wasn’t alone.”
Even after the program concluded, her cohort continues to stay connected.
“We still meet even after the cohort ended. I look forward to our get-togethers and feel sad when I have to miss one. This network has provided a safe space to share both victories and challenges.”
For women considering applying to EmBe’s next cohort, Alysia’s advice is simple, “Do it. Don’t hesitate.”
“This program is more than a series of workshops—it’s a transformative experience that connects you with an amazing network of women who are ready to support you. You’ll gain valuable skills, a clearer sense of your leadership style, and a support system that lasts far beyond the program itself.”
In one word, Alysia sums up her Women’s Leadership Program experience as transformative—a journey that helped her claim her voice, strengthen her confidence, and step boldly into her next chapter of leadership.
You don’t have to do leadership—or life—alone. Wherever you are on your leadership journey, you’re invited to grow alongside other women who want to expand their leadership impact.
Learn more or apply for the next Women’s Leadership Program cohort at embe.org/womens-leadership-program.