Chief Judge, State Senator and School Committee Chairperson Discuss Leadership at Cranston West

Students at Cranston High School West had the opportunity to hear the stories of some powerful local women as part of diversity week at Cranston High School West on Thursday. 

The three women panel was made up of Cranston School Committee Chairwoman Andrea Iannazzi, Family Court Chief Judge Haiganush Bedrosian and State Senator Bea Lanzi (D-Dist. 25, Cranston). 

They told the students gathered in the auditorium that if they worked hard, had a plan and did something they were passionate about then they too could be leaders.

“Leadership starts very early in life,” said Bedrosian, who grew up in Cranston and attended Cranston High School East.  “Learn how to organize and develop a vision.”

She said that when she was first entering the field of law in the 1970s, there were less opportunities for women to attain leadership positions. But times have changed and today, any woman can succeed if they have confidence and pursue their goals.

Bedrosian added that one of the best ways to find help is to ask for it from someone you admire. She got her start in politics through a City Councilwoman named Corinne Grande, who she called an incredible and innovative thinker.

“It was easy to follow her lead,” said Bedrosian, “If you want to get involved in something don’t be afraid to follow that person [you admire.]”

Bea Lanzi told a story about how when she was in 4^th grade she was “studious and quiet” and kids questioned her personality. However, she was comforted when a teacher pulled her aside and said “I want to tell you to be yourself.  You be who you are, whoever you are. . .and that's great.”

She said she got into politics after being student body president at Rhode Island College. She realized through that experience that she could have a positive impact on her community through elected office.  She added that politics wasn’t the only way to improve your community and that students should pursue whatever they enjoy.

“Whatever it is you feel you have to offer to make a difference in the community,” said Lanzi, “Just set that goal and achieve it.”

Andrea Iannazzi told the students that she faced more age discrimination when she ran for office than gender discrimination. She was 21 when she first ran for a position on the Cranston School Committee.

“People may not take you seriously because of your age,” said Iannazzi, but she told them to “prove them wrong.”

She said she didn’t want to get into public life at first, but caught the bug after meeting Sheldon Whitehouse.

“Everyone has the potential to be a leader,” said Iannazzi, “It’s just about finding something you’re passionate about and pursuing it.”