Grace Institute

We began the day with a get-to- know-you bingo game where we mingled, introduced ourselves, and tried to find people who matched the traits on our bingo cards. We then conducted rotating mentoring sessions in which a pair of Grace women met with five different American Securities professionals. The Grace students were able to seek advice for the workplace, such as how to project confidence and how to best approach common interview questions. Next, we broke into small group sessions focused on the topics of time management, conflict resolution, customer service, and negotiation. After watching instructional videos on the given topics, we broke into more intimate groups where the Grace participants asked American Securities professionals about their thoughts on strategies for success within these areas. We finished the day by sharing our experiences with the broader group and discussing what both sides had learned. Additionally, for each class of students, Grace Institute hosts a suit drive called Dress With Grace. The event provides Grace Institute participants with professional, work appropriate attire for job interviews and for their eventual careers. American Securities colleagues donated gently-used clothing and accessories to two Dress With Grace events in 2017.

Founded in 1897, over 100,000 women have come through Grace Institute’s doors. Today, Grace Institute serves as a leader in workforce development for women. It serves 300 women annually by developing advanced computer and professional skills to prepare students for administrative and customer support positions in industries such as banking, not-for-profit, health care, and hospitality.