To celebrate Women’s History Month, the County Lines Magazine published its inaugural Women Leaders feature, in which Brandywine Valley women leaders shared their stories and offered advice for future leaders.

Dr. Lorraine Bernotsky, who has previously worked at West Chester University for 27 years, will serve as the school’s 16th president and second woman president starting in July.

Bernotsky, who is a first-generation college graduate, knows well the importance of public higher education and has spent her entire career improving it.

Her message to future women leaders is a simple one.

“Especially for first-generation college women, it’s important to know that you’re more talented than you think you are,” she said.

Patti Brennan is the founder and CEO of Key Financial. She has a 98 percent client retention rate and $2 billion in assets under management. She has honed her skills in three decades of wealth management combined with the holistic financial service she provides to both her clients and the community.

She started her company in her home in 1990, all while raising four children. Today, she leads a team of 30.

Her advice to future women leaders?

“Open your mouth and don’t be timid,” she said.

Read more about Dr. Lorraine Bernotsky and Patti Brennan in the County Lines Magazine.