Maya Angelou speaks to women who lead - WBTV 3 News, Weather, Sports, and Traffic for Charlotte, NC

Maya Angelou speaks to women who lead

Posted: Updated:

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - The Women Who Lead Luncheon always draws a big crowd to the Westin hotel in uptown, and it's a well-dressed crowd of women in their finest attire.

Almost everyone dons a hat. Some are brightly-colored, large and definitely eye-catchers.

That's the light-hearted side of this gathering; however, there's serious meaning behind the luncheon.

The annual event has raised more than a million dollars to help students succeed in college, by benefiting the UNCF. The luncheon also honors women from across North Carolina who have served their communities well in leadership roles. 

The event also gives a chance to hear poet and educator, Dr. Maya Angelou. She shared some advice on how to be successful.

"Continue to develop courage. It's the most important of all the virtues, because without courage, you can't practice any other virtue consistently," said Angelou.

Governor Bev Perdue was also honored with a lifetime achievement award.

Copyright 2012 WBTV. All rights reserved.