Marion Jones

A Celebration of Women’s Strength presented by the Executive Women’s Council of the Vegas Chamber

By Laura Henkel

Las Vegas is a city that thrives on transformation—where reinvention is a way of life and resilience fuels success. The Vegas Chamber’s Executive Women’s Council recently hosted a sold-out International Women’s Day celebration, bringing together a powerful network of women who understand that every challenge is an opportunity to rise stronger.

At the center of the event was Olympic champion and legendary track and field athlete Marion Jones, whose keynote was more than just a speech—it was a performance in personal evolution, a master class in resilience, and a testament to the art of transformation.

The Art of Reinvention: Marion Jones’ Story

Jones’ journey is one of extremes—unparalleled triumphs followed by the toughest trials. Yet, she never let setbacks define her.

Now, as a mother of three—two sons and a daughter—Jones carries forward the lessons instilled by her own mother. She emphasizes that true strength is not defined by titles or medals but by character, humility and perseverance—values she has long upheld and now strives to pass on to her own children. Throughout the event, she credited her mother as the person she looks up to the most, recognizing her as a constant source of wisdom and strength in her life.

Her journey has had extraordinary highs—Olympic victories, worldwide acclaim—and unimaginable lows—public scrutiny, personal hardship and the challenge of rebuilding her life from the ground up.

But her story was never over.

“At the heights of success, I knew my story was not over. At the depths of failure, I knew this was not the last word on Marion Jones.”

Her message was clear and powerful:

• Your circumstances do not define you—your response to them does.
• Adversity is not the end—it is the beginning of something greater.
• Your story is still being written—so write it with intention.

The Art of Resilience: Five Takeaways from Marion Jones

Jones left the audience with two powerful frameworks—one for the long road ahead and another for the small victories that add up every day. First, she shared five key takeaways for lasting transformation.

1. Own your circumstances—no matter how difficult.
   Facing struggles rather than hiding from them is the first step to transformation.
2. Reignite the fire within.
   Passion doesn’t disappear—it sometimes lies dormant, waiting to be reignited.
3. Put in the work—reps matter.
   Just as an artist refines their technique through repetition, personal reinvention requires daily effort and consistency.
4. Reinvent yourself, fearlessly.
   Life is a canvas, and mistakes don’t ruin it—they add depth. Adaptation is key to growth.
5. Surround yourself with supporters, not saboteurs.
   Your network determines your net worth. Align yourself with those who challenge and uplift you.

An Unforgettable Morning of Inspiration

The energy in the room was undeniable.

Every attendee left with a renewed sense of possibility, drive and resilience. Jones’ story was not about reliving the past—it was about recognizing the power of today and the limitless potential of tomorrow.

Honoring Women in Leadership

The event also honored outstanding women in business and leadership, recognizing their significant contributions:

• Susan Hitch, CFO of Circa Resort & Casino, was honored for her unwavering leadership.
• Kristi Staab, executive coach of Kristi Staab Enterprises, was recognized for securing Jones as the keynote speaker.
• Gina Bongiovi, managing partner of Bongiovi Law Firm and a dedicated Vegas Chamber leader, reinforced the importance of women’s leadership and mentorship.
• Danna Jarvis, steering committee chair of the Executive Women’s Council.

This unforgettable event was made possible through the generosity of sponsors, including:

• Howard Hughes (Presenting Sponsor)
• UNLV Lee Business School Executive MBA Program (Platinum Sponsor)
• Gold Sponsors: Bank of Nevada, Cragin & Pike, Hightower Las Vegas, the Vegas Chamber’s Leadership Foundation, and NV Energy

A special thanks to Circa Resort & Casino for hosting this inspiring morning of connection and transformation.

The Art of the Comeback—A Call to Action

Jones has transformed her story into a movement. Through her Comeback—which she recently launched as part of her partnership with Driving In—she mentors others and teaches the mindset of winning and the art of peak performance.

Because, as she says: “Everyone can have a comeback story. And now … it’s time for yours.”

For those inspired by her journey, here’s what you can do next:

• Follow this extraordinary woman.
• Subscribe to her upcoming podcast.
• Hire her as your coach.

Jones keeps it real, and when you learn from a champion, you always bring your A-game.

#ExecutiveWomensCouncil #InternationalWomensDay #WomenInLeadership #VegasChamber #MarionJones #TheArtOfTheComeback