Women's History Month | Celebrating Chamber Women - Roe Falcone

Q&A: Roe Falcone, Director of Strategic Partnership at EDSI and a current member of the Foundation of the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce's Board of Directors 

Roe joined EDSI in 1998 and has held a variety of positions that have given her broad experience for her current position as Regional Director of Operations. In this position, Roe is responsible for achieving program goals and managing staff and budgets for workforce development programs in Pennsylvania and Maryland. These programs serve the TANF population, adult and dislocated workers, refugees, youth, noncustodial parents and returning citizens. Roe has distinguished herself by bringing innovative ideas to program operations and for the hiring and development of employees for new program start-ups.

Continue reading to learn more about this inspirational woman who is making a historical impact in Delaware County’s business community:

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Roe has provided leadership and direction to the operations team, overseeing such innovative projects as the Clinton Global Initiative’s Virtual Career Sculpting Program. She also has an extensive training background and was instrumental in the development of EDSI’s customer service curriculum, You’re HIRED! Roe also delivers training to EDSI staff on leadership, communication and team building.  

Roe is an active member of the community and currently serves on several local boards such as the Delaware County Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Billy Mock Foundation, The Wright Legacy, as well as the varsity girls basketball coach at Ridley High School. In addition to local boards, Roe serves as a committee member on the Philadelphia Workforce Alliance, Dickinson College Alumni Counsel, Employment and Training Advisory Committee for the State of Pennsylvania, All-Star Labor Classic Committee, and the Friends of Red Devil Basketball Committee.
 
Roe holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Dickinson College. ​

How many years have you been with your current company/ organization? 
23

Why do you believe your business/ organization a Chamber member? 
It's important to be a part of the community and connect with other local businesses.

What has been the most valuable aspect of your Delaware County Chamber of Commerce membership? 
It is always rewarding to network with other professionals and I'm proud to be a part of the Chamber's foundation.

What advice would you give to a young woman starting out her career? 
I think it's important to challenge yourself and sometime do things that are out of your comfort zone. Taking on new challenges is a part of growth and continuous learning, embrace those opportunities. I also believe finding a mentor can be extremely valuable. As women we should look to help each other be successful.

In honor of March being International Women's Month, can you identify a woman in history that has inspired you and explain why? 
Billie Jean King - she was a pioneer for women's rights and help to ensure equity in women's sports. I admire her courage and commitment to helping change the landscape for women.

Can you explain any obstacles you have faced as a woman in the workplace and how you got past them? 
I have been fortunate to work for a company that has always supported women and encouraged our professional growth.

Can you share any tips you have for woman who are trying to make secure a board of directors position? 
Go for it! Have confidence in your own abilities and believe that you will add value to the organization.

What motivates you? 
To have a profound positive impact on others through my work and through my personal commitments. Everyday I have a chance to positively make a difference in someone's life - that is why I still love my job. In addition, I serve on several boards and also coach high school girls basketball. Coaching has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I love coaching and teaching - at the end of the day, I recognize that I am role model and I'm teaching these girls much more than the game of basketball. This opportunity motivates me to be better and help the girls I coach accomplish their goals and succeed in life.

Are you involved with any other community organizations or charities? *
Yes, as mentioned, I serve on multiple boards. I am the Ridley Varsity High School Girls Basketball Coach and a member of the following boards: The Billy Mock Foundation, The All Star Labor Classic, The Wright Legacy and Friends of Red Devil Basketball. I am also on Dickinson College's Alumni Council and chair their Career Development Committee.