POST FALLS — Louisa Rogers believes “education is a powerful tool” for women in more ways than one.

As a student success navigator for North Idaho College’s Center for New Directions, Rogers has seen many women come into her office for the first time not knowing what to do.

“They lack belief in themselves. ... Going back to school feels impossible,” Rogers said.

Rogers has also witnessed incredible transformations within these same women.

“Their self-confidence increases,” Rogers said. “By the time they graduate, they’re a whole different person. ... I would argue that education does so much more than empower women financially.”

Rogers was the keynote speaker at Saturday’s Dream Builder Brunch hosted by Soroptimist International of Coeur d’Alene, which was attended by around 100 people.

Angela Comstock called the brunch a chance to “(celebrate) phenomenal women in our community” as she gave Saturday’s welcome address.

Founded in 1921, Soroptimist is a global volunteer organization with a focus on uplifting women. Soroptimist’s reach spans 21 countries.

“When women are supported, amazing things happen,” Comstock said.

During Saturday’s brunch, Soroptimist awarded nine Live Your Dream scholarships of $1,000 to women looking to invest in their education, skills and employment prospects.

“We’re investing in their children, our community. ... They are our future,” Rogers said of the Live Your Dream scholarships.

Seven local women received Women of Distinction awards across seven respective categories. Women of Distinction awards “honor women whose achievements in their respective fields of work and interest, and dedication to community service set them apart,” the event program reads.

This year’s winners were Jennifer Drake in the Arts and Culture category, Katherine Monroe Coyle in the Business and Professional category, Gayle Stegmann in the Community Service category, Victoria Sandford in Education, Karmen Gregg in Health, Tina Botai in Public Service and Valerie Wilcox in the Second Act category.

Stegmann described her win as “completely unexpected.”

“There are many women in this room, and in this community, who are just as worthy of this award,” Stegmann said. “So to be selected is very humbling.” 

    Gayle Stegmann addressed the crowd after receiving a Women of Distinction award for community service on Saturday.