The Bold Women Collective: A Movement with Heart

Darlene Akers, Akers Business Solutions  |  Deborah Kerr, St. Francis Public School District  |  Jolene Levin, ECLPS
icon-double-arrow-down

From humble yet proud beginnings at EDspaces, the Bold Women Collective has blossomed into something extraordinary — a movement powered by women who are not only shaping the future of education but doing so with courage, conviction, and compassion. What started as a single idea has evolved into a thriving, dynamic community — a place where personal stories, professional purpose, and shared passion come together.

We have been deeply moved by the incredible women who have shared their journeys with honesty and vulnerability. These voices — unfiltered, powerful, and profoundly human — form the heartbeat of a community that listens, learns, and lifts. Whether sharing career milestones, personal hurdles, or quiet moments of reflection, every story adds depth and strength to this collective. To each woman who has spoken up and leaned in: you are why this movement exists.

Across virtual meetups and in-person gatherings, we’ve witnessed the undeniable power of connection. We’ve shared challenges together, laughed together, and reminded one another that while our work can be heavy, it is full of hope. These events are not just moments of professional development — they are spaces for renewal, reflection, and real sisterhood.

But perhaps most importantly, the Bold Women Collective stands on the belief that leadership is not a solo journey. This is not a competition. We rise higher when we rise together. We are creating a culture where mentorship, coaching, and sponsorship are not afterthoughts, but foundational. We are committed to walking side-by-side — seasoned leaders guiding emerging ones, peers holding space for each other, and everyone ensuring that no woman walks her leadership path alone.

We’ve built a powerful community where women champion one another-encouraging, empowering, and lifting each other up every step of the way. At the heart of the Bold Women Collective is a commitment to collaboration, mentorship, and celebrating every achievement, big and small.

We believe in the collective power of women to transform education — not just through their roles, but through how they show up for one another. When one woman finds her voice, we all speak more boldly. When one woman steps into her power, she makes space for others to do the same. The impact of this collective is far-reaching. Because when one woman rises, we all rise. Empowerment here is not just personal — it’s shared, amplified, and unstoppable.

With the generous support of our sponsors, KI and Meteor Education, and empowered by the Education Market Association (EDmarket), the Bold Women Collective continues to grow. These partners believe in our mission and help us build spaces where women are seen, heard, and empowered — and where they lift one another with intention and grace.

When one woman finds her voice, we all speak more boldly.

We started as a small, passionate group at EDspaces, where a spark was lit to champion bold women in the education industry. Since then, we’ve proudly carried that momentum to inspiring spaces across the country — from AASA, NEOCON, the CUE Conference, and ERDI. Through our Bold Women Collective Backstory podcast, we amplify the real, courageous stories of trailblazing women, ensuring their voices echo far beyond conference walls and into every corner of the profession.

Listen to BWC’s Backstory Podcast Series: https://www.edmarket.org/podcasts/.

Now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Please follow to never miss an episode — we will be releasing new episodes weekly! Or search for the Bold Women Backstory on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

To the women already walking this path with us — thank you! And to those who have not yet joined the Bold Women Collective—whether individually or with your entire organization, we’re saving you a seat. Your voice matters. Your story belongs here. We can’t wait to welcome you into a vibrant community where bold ideas, connection, and growth thrive.

Mark your calendar for our upcoming events:

  • August 14, 2025: NexGen Panel — Evolving as you Grow Personally and Professionally/VIRTUAL
  • September 11, 2025: Cheryl Durst, IIDA President/VIRTUAL
  • November 5, 2025: EDspaces Bold Women Collective Gathering

Now is the time. Let’s be bold — together.

Join the movement: www.edmarket.org/bwcollective.

Darlene Akers, Akers Business Solutions

Darlene is the CEO & President of Akers Business Solutions, one of the largest Manufacturer Representative Groups in the educational furniture industry, with over 28 years of industry expertise. Her deep-rooted connections in the architectural and design community give her a distinct edge in furniture specification, and her consistent sales growth speaks volumes about her strategic approach and commitment to excellence. Akers Business Solutions, a certified women-owned small business, has earned multiple “Rep Group of the Year” honors. Darlene currently serves as Chair of the Board for the EDmarket Association and is a proud founding member of the Bold Women Collective, demonstrating her ongoing commitment to innovation, advocacy, and empowering others in the industry.
Emailwebsitelinkedin

Deborah Kerr, St. Francis Public School District

Dr. Deborah Kerr is the Superintendent of St. Francis Public School District. She brings over forty years of educational experience to her position in her 24th year as a WI Superintendent. Her teaching career began at the prestigious University of Chicago – Laboratory Schools. Dr. Kerr has served as a middle school principal, an adjunct professor, teacher and coach. She earned her Doctorate of Education Leadership from National-Louis University, a Master of Education from the University of Alaska-Fairbanks, and a Bachelor of Arts & Science from Valparaiso University. She served as the 2019 president of AASA and is the Chair Elect for the Education Market Association and founder/co-leader of the EDmarket Bold Women Collective.
Emailwebsitelinkedin

Jolene Levin, ECLPS

Jolene Levin is a prominent advocate and advisor in the K-12 Furniture Industry. Since 2014, Jolene has spent her career dedicated to transforming learning environments. Starting in Australia and relocating to Dallas in 2017, she and her husband created products and spaces supporting high-impact learning models, facilitating schools worldwide to transform into future-ready learning spaces. In 2024, she was elected Chair of EDmarket, where she continues championing innovative solutions for the industry. Jolene is a sought-after speaker and core instructor for the ECLPS Certification program, co-leader of the EDmarket Bold Women Collective, and Associate Fellow for the Design for Learning Co-Laboratory. 
Emaillinkedin