At this juncture in her illustrious career, Senator Snowe has placed her energies, and her legacy, on raising aspirations and confidence in future generations of Maine women by helping them develop leadership, collaboration, and problem solving skills. The Institute launched in 2015 using Olympia’s compelling personal story and her historic career as the inspiration to create a meaningful leadership experience for 10th-12th grade girls. Supporting Olympia in this work is a broad and diverse group successful women from all walks of life, as well as hundreds of corporate, individual, and foundation donors. With this tremendous support, the Institute has designed a three-year, evidence-based program focused on the themes "My Values" (sophomore year), "My Voice" (junior year), and "My Vision" (senior year). Each year offers an intensive one-day kick-off session in which all the girls hear from Olympia and other accomplished women, followed by monthly meetings with trained advisors and continued communication through a private online community. Participants in the program are 10th-12th grade girls who show great potential, but may not yet have experienced the opportunity to expand their views of their potential and the possibilities that exist for their futures, and for whom leadership skills may make a remarkable difference.
