Women: In their own words!

I never aspired to own a company, but the opportunity presented itself 15 years ago to purchase the business from my employer at the time, a global Fortune 300 company that did not want to be in the specialty paper-making business anymore. It was an exciting proposition, although not without significant risk for our employees, our customers, and our suppliers – and for me and my business partner. Read Patricia Begrowicz’s full testimonial in our BLOG.

Throughout my career, I have never viewed leadership through the lens of being a “female CEO”—my focus has always been on being a great CEO, period. While I have sometimes had to work harder to ensure my contributions were recognized on equal footing, I have never allowed external perceptions to limit my determination or belief in what is possible. To those aspiring to leadership roles, my advice is this: never underestimate your potential, embrace challenges as opportunities to grow, and surround yourself with mentors and allies who believe in and support you. Read Anne Broholm’s full testimonial in our BLOG.

I’ve seen firsthand how diverse perspectives drive better decision-making and enhance a company’s culture. However, navigating the complexities of leadership as a woman of color still presents challenges, from overcoming gender and racial biases to balancing the expectations of being both a leader and a mentor in a rapidly evolving business landscape. To young women aspiring to lead, my advice is simple yet powerful: embrace your unique voice and perspective. Don’t shy away from challenges; instead, see them as stepping stones to growth. Read Colette A.M. Phillips’ full testimonial in our BLOG.

When I started in banking in 1987, there were very few female executives or relationship managers at the major banks in Boston.  Thirty-eight years later, it remains a male-dominated business on the lending side as a majority of the clients are male.  Between 1991-2003, I went through six acquisitions and 11 managers. I learned quickly that you need to be like Gumby – extremely flexible and able to adapt. You must maintain a positive attitude and look at every situation as the glass half-full. People want to be around positive people. Read Pamela Kuong’s full testimonial in our BLOG.

I have always chosen to live with a foot in many worlds – at the intersection of ideas and community. I strive to build bridges among business, government and civil society to forge partnerships that serve the greater public good. As we navigate the uncharted waters ahead, it’s imperative that we do not give in to fear, that we continue to ally with each other, and that we honor Ruth Bader Ginsberg’s words to “fight for the things we care about, but do it in a way that will lead others to join us.” Read Elyse Cherry’s full testimonial in our BLOG.