Power Sources: Learn The Stories of Women Changing Systems Past, Present, Future: Take The Lead 5/13/2025

“There is power in narrative,” said Nikole Hannah-Jones, Pulitzer Prize-winning author and creator of the 1619 Project , to an eager and nodding crowd of hundreds of fans and book lovers at the recent 22nd Annual Annapolis Book Festival.

Noteworthy that 32 out of 53 featured authors speaking at the festival identify as female, the authors recently shared their work documenting in nonfiction and fiction books –among many topics--the stories of women across history for audiences from children and young adult to adults. More than 3,000 attendees savored 35 sessions throughout the day of panels, discussions, talks and signings.

The Power To Use Collaboration To Fuel Change

By Tansley Stearns

It has always been my dream to lead a credit union. As not-for-profit institutions, credit unions were created to improve lives and foster financial stability— especially in communities where traditional banks often fall short. When I returned to my home state of Michigan as president and CEO of Community Financial Credit Union, I was determined to address the economic pain I saw firsthand in my community.
At Community Financial, we walk with our members through every circumstance. That commitment goes beyond financial services. After listening to survivors of domestic and sexual violence, we created a specialized loan program to help individuals facing economic abuse regain control of their finances.