Women & Leadership: A Panel Presented by Reading's OESJ

Join the Office of Equity and Social Justice and the Women's League of Reading for an inaugural Women's History Month panel discussion.

This special event will feature a dynamic, moderated conversation with distinguished women leaders from across the Reading community, exploring themes of leadership, equity, history, and civic engagement.

Joining the panel for this enlightening conversation:

Deputy Chief of Police Christine Amendola has over 27 years of law enforcement experience, and has held numerous leadership positions throughout her career. Currently, she oversees the health, welfare, and supervision of over 75 employees, including police officers, dispatchers, and civilian staff, while assisting the Chief of Police with daily operations, hiring and promotions, budgeting, and departmental leadership.

Pastor Mary Curlew is Rector of the Episcopal Church of the Good Shepherd and a licensed independent clinical social worker specializing in community and individual trauma informed care. Rev. Curlew brings a unique integration of spiritual leadership and clinical expertise to her work and is committed to collaborative leadership, compassionate care and creating beloved communities.

Sarah Samuels is a Partner at NEPC and oversees the firm's asset allocation, portfolio construction, OCIO and investment manager selection across private markets, hedge funds and public markets. Prior to joining NEPC, she was Managing Director at Wellesley College and earlier in her career was Deputy Chief Investment Officer at Mass PRIM. Sarah is a passionate financial literacy advocate. She founded the 30 Seconds of Bravery movement and is the author of Braving Our Savings, both aimed at inspiring and teaching children about investing.

Alyssa Spinale is a dedicated community leader currently serving as Vice President of the Women’s League of Reading, where she champions philanthropy, mentorship, and women supporting women. A Nurse Practitioner, Alyssa practices in both traditional hospital-based care at Lahey Health and Medical Center and in the longevity and hormone optimization space at Envital. As a working mom of two and a fitness enthusiast, she is deeply committed to modeling resilience, balance, and purpose in both medicine and motherhood.

Jayne Wellman is Reading’s Acting Town Manager, overseeing communications,procurement, community development, and key resident services including elder
services, recreation, and veterans’ programs. She holds degrees from Tufts and UNH’s Carsey School and is MCPPO certified. A former journalist and longtime civic leader, Jayne previously served on Tewksbury’s Select Board, School Committee, and as the town’s first female Town Moderator.

Liz Whitelam is the owner of Whitelam Books. After a long career in the corporate world, Whitelam established a vibrant bookstore for readers of all ages in the heart of downtown. The store is deeply integrated in the community, hosting book groups, storytimes, and events to connect readers to authors.Liz is also a vocalist and musician performing with The BackTrack Band.

The evening will also include a cello musical selection and poetry readings by a local artist. Light refreshments will be served. We look forward to welcoming community members for an engaging and inspiring celebration of Women’s History Month.

This event is organized by Partners and Allies for Inclusive Reading (PAIR) and is sponsored by the Office of Equity and Social Justice, the Town of Reading, and the Reading Public Library.  

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