A notable celebration gathering women of civic engagement and mentorship took place Wednesday morning – The Committee of Seventy hosted its annual Women in Public Leadership event . Among those being recognized was Charisse Lille, Esq., who expressed excitement and gratitude for the honor.
“I am thrilled to be honored by the Committee of Seventy at this important event,” Charisse said. “I look forward to the panel of outstanding leaders who will be discussing the Power of Mentorship.”
The annual gathering shines a spotlight on women making a meaningful impact in public life and encourages conversations around leadership, equity, and the importance of guiding the next generation. This year’s theme, The Power of Mentorship, brings together a dynamic panel of trailblazers sharing their insights and experiences.
I was especially excited to attend because, back in 1990, my first job as a paralegal was for Camden’s Solicitor, Karen Taylor-Lewis, Esquire (Office of the City Attorney). At the time, Charisse Lillie was serving as Philadelphia’s City Solicitor and was a mentor to my boss Karen. Much of the wisdom and guidance Charisse shared with Karen was then passed along to me. So when I had the chance to meet Charisse nearly 20 years later, in 2009, after I started PhillyChitChat, I was able to share that full-circle moment with her.
The event featured a panel discussion on the importance of mentorship, moderated by Sue Jacobson, President and CEO of Jacobson Strategic Communications. Panelists included Donna Bullock, Esquire, President and CEO of Project Home and former member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives; Carlyn D. Crawley, MPA, Chief of Staff in the Office of Councilmember Quetcy Lozada and a Buchholz Fellow alumna; and
I was truly inspired by Trish Wellenbach’s mentorship story. I’ve photographed Trish and her husband Larry McMichael for over a decade and have seen her rise with purpose and grace. At events, she’s always approachable—offering a kind word, thoughtful advice, and genuine connection. On the panel, she shared how Rebecca Rimmel, former president of the Pew Charitable Trusts, mentored her early in her career and even wrote letters of recommendation that helped open doors, something I remember well as people had done the same for me in my paralegal career. Trish now pays that forward, mentoring others with the same generosity—always available, always leading with heart.
As a mentor myself, I can say there’s real joy and fulfillment in guiding others. Watching my mentees grow and succeed fills me with pride—it’s one of the most rewarding experiences in life. I always tell them, pay it forward. Be a mentor to others. We are all in this together!!
Socially yours, HughE
