Is she enough? Is she capable? Is she worthy? The answer to all these questions is: yes. Everyday double standards, comparisons, and gender stereotypes give women the impression that they are inadequate. In this panel, participants will share experiences of those societal pressures that women and girls often face while in pursuit of all of which woman is capable.

Thought Leader: Denise Gitsgam-Jones

Panelists: Claudia Huizar, Philo Mbong Ph.D., Ellen Moxham Ph.D., Sr. Madonna Buder, Rachel Schlesinger

This panel addresses the reality that women must overcome many personal and professional challenges, the types of adversity women face, and how they have overcome these obstacles. It will focus on the pivoting that is sometimes required when plans change, the risk-taking that is so critical but often difficult for women and girls, our responses to inevitable failure and the self-compassion that is then required. These women will be speaking from their own experiences, spotlighting their resilience throughout their lives and how it has made them stronger and more determined to accomplish their goals.

Thought Leader: Jamie Sigler O’Grady

Panelists: Danea Ramos, Emanette Peniche ‘08, Vanessa Valiente, Aspen Scharff, Lisa Dawley

This panel features inspiring young women who are only a few professional and educational steps ahead of our brilliant students! Attendees will be inspired to create their own path based on the guidance and stories of these impressive women. In a world where paths can be predetermined, this panel challenges the societal constraints and pushes boundaries to imagine what can be. It discredits the generational stereotypes that young people cannot meet standards of success normally achieved by those with more extensive professional experience.

Thought Leader: Rhiannon Davis

Panelists: Ale Ramirez ‘15, Sara Valine Harris ‘08, Andrea Lopez-Villafana, Kacie Brennel

She is passionate, she is a risk-taker, she is driven, she is bold -- she is daring. In this panel, you will have the opportunity to meet women who were the “1st’s” in their careers, facing challenges like the gender gap and socio-economic stereotypes in the workplace. These trail-blazing women will elaborate on the challenges they faced while bravely reaching for their goals, whether they be overcoming the fear of failure and self doubt, or learning how to deal with the unexpected when adversity came their way.

Thought Leader: Fabienne Perlov

Panelists: Cindy Gatlin, Roshan Roeder, Gigi Goldman, Melanie Silverman, Khalia II