The ninth annual Executive Women of Goizueta (EWG) Conference hosted 250 attendees, seven speakers, including luncheon keynote Cathie Black, former Chairman and President of Hearst Magazines, and two award recipients.
EWG members, perspective Goizueta students, GBS alumni, and local business professionals participated in a full day of events centered on the theme “Play the Game, Change the Game.” “This year’s conference chair Fontaine Lee, EWG President, Barbara Marxer and all EWG members who worked hard to make this conference a success provided an exceptional platform for executive women to interact and recharge,” commented Samantha Renfro, Sr. Director Alumni Relations at Goizueta Business School.
The event began with a breakfast conversation between Stacey Abrams, GA General Assembly House Minority Leader and State Representative and Ann Cramer, Director Americas IBM, Corporate Citizenship and Corporate Affairs. Directly after, attendees were provided the opportunity to choose from two breakout sessions, one focusing on global corporate strategy and the other a discussion on the use of power and influence in leadership. An interview style discussion with Shelly Lazarus, Chairman Emeritus, Ogilvy & Mather followed, leading into time set aside for networking and then the luncheon and awards presentations.
Cyril Turner, President of Delta Global Services and Delta Private Jets at Delta Air Lines accepted the 2012 BRIDGE Award. The award is presented to an individual who supports diversity and creates opportunities for others.
Meridith L. Rentz, 97MBA, MPH, CEO and President of MedShare, accepted the 2012 Guiding Star Award, presented to an up-and-coming businesswoman who sets an outstanding professional example, while maintaining involvement in the community and commitment to family.
“The conference is both informational and inspirational,” commented Lisa Lubar, 88C, 2013 EWG Membership Chair. “EWG provides a forum to be able to touch and influence people in your community and find others to learn from.”
Conference attendee, Falencia Prime, VP at SunTrust Bank, said she will take away the message of “being open to what life has to offer.”
“The greatest take away is the message of authenticity,” remarked Tamora Barker, Accounting Manager at Southern Healthcare Management, also in attendance.
During her keynote address, Black expounded upon these messages as well as the event’s theme. “When women get together, we are game changers. … The main goal is to live a full 360 degree life,” shared Black as she provided insight into not only her career path but also important lessons she learned along the way.
Her remarks emphasized a continual need for strong female leadership in all facets of society and business. “To change the game you need to be brave and bold. … That seat at the table is rightfully yours. Take it,” she encouraged all those in attendance.
