Gearing Up in 2024:
Morning Networking with WICT
On Wednesday, January 22nd, the WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia Chapter kicked off 2025 with our first networking event, "Gearing up in 2025: Morning Networking with WICT." Held at the bustling Termini Brothers in the Comcast Center Concourse, the event brought together more than 75 professionals from a variety of companies across the industry.
Over freshly brewed coffee and tasty pastries, the gathering provided an inspiring space to network and expand our professional circles, exchange ideas and insights, as well as connect with peers on a more authentic and personal level. Attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the WICT Network, membership and our mission by scanning the provided QR codes as well as enter to win gift cards through a raffle. It was an exciting and energizing start to a big year for the WICT Philadelphia community!
The "Gearing up in 2025" event was just the first of many events that the WICT Network's Philadelphia chapter has planned for 2025. Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside this incredible and impactful community.
☕ Tea, Books, & Brilliance 📚
Our WICT end of year event, "Tea, Books, and Brilliance," was a memorable, sold-out success. We were thrilled to give away over 100 books, receive nine heartfelt hand-written notes from the authors, and celebrate the remarkable achievements of so many incredible individuals. We ended the year with immense gratitude by recognizing everything this year has brought and all that's to come. Here's to continued growth, learning, and celebrating each other's successes in the year ahead!
BMLI & BMGI Networking Breakfast
On November 14, The WICT Network hosted the BMLI & BMGI Networking Breakfast to celebrate recent graduates during their time in Philadelphia. With inspiring words from Bill Strahan and Maria Brennan, attendees enjoyed a morning filled with great food, engaging conversations, and the chance to make new connections while reconnecting with colleagues and peers.
The Betsy Magness Leadership Institute (BMLI) is the premier leadership development program for senior-level women in media, entertainment, and technology. Since its launch in 1994, it has offered a curriculum combining assessment-based executive coaching and interactive development strategies to empower participants for exponential leadership impact. The Betsy Magness Graduate Institute (BMGI) builds on this foundation, equipping graduates with cutting-edge tools and techniques to refine their business strategies.
Thank you to Comcast for hosting and all attendees for making this event successful!
The WICT Philly Gives Back event, held on September 26, 2024, was a celebration of leadership and philanthropy in the media, entertainment, and technology sectors. Hosted by The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia, the event featured a silent auction benefiting Unite for HER, supporting breast and ovarian cancer patients with wellness therapies and resources.
Four industry leaders were honored at the award ceremony: Michelle Corsini received the Excellence Award for supporting women’s advancement, Karolyn Maynard was awarded the Advocate Award for mentorship, Ajai George received the Ally Award, and Rachael Sparks was recognized as the Woman to Watch.
The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia, a chapter of the global organization, continues its commitment to empowering women through leadership development, programming, and community-building initiatives. The chapter’s dedication to both industry and charitable causes like Unite for HER highlights its ongoing impact on both members and the broader community.
Coffee & Connection! 🍂 Kick-Off Fall
What a fantastic morning of connecting with the WICT Greater Philadelphia community and friends! Our fall connection event was not only well-attended but also full of smiles, energy, and inspiration. It's always incredible to see our community come together to share insights, set goals, and most importantly, uplift each other.
Networking is more than just exchanging business cards—it's about building a network of support, empowerment, and shared opportunities. Events like these provide a valuable space to connect, collaborate, and find ways to help one another grow personally and professionally. Together, we are stronger, and through connection, we can achieve great things.
Thank you to everyone who joined us! The room was filled with inspiring conversations, and we can’t wait to see how these connections continue to flourish. Be on the lookout for more opportunities to gather, share, and support each other in the near future!
Coffee (☕) & Co-Pilot:
Your Digital Delegate: Copilot for M365
On Wednesday, August 28th, members of the WICT Greater Philadelphia Chapter gathered for an inspiring event, "Coffee & Co-Pilot: Your Digital Delegate: Copilot for M365." The session, presented by Molly Rupert Sullivan from Accenture Strategy & Consulting, offered a dynamic and interactive experience that left everyone feeling empowered and excited about the future of digital tools.
Key Highlights:
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Understanding Copilot: We explored how Copilot can revolutionize our productivity, providing a high-level overview of its capabilities.
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Practical Applications: Molly demonstrated how Copilot can seamlessly integrate into our personal and professional lives, enhancing efficiency and streamlining tasks.
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Interactive Q&A: A lively Q&A session allowed members to dive deeper into Copilot’s potential, with Molly sharing valuable insights and practical tips.
The event was a fantastic opportunity to learn, connect, and be inspired by the possibilities of technology in our daily lives.
Executive Happy Hour
Stroll & Sip:
A Summer Event to Remember
The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia recently hosted a delightful two-part summer event, Stroll & Sip. The event kicked off with a leisurely lunchtime stroll around the iconic Philadelphia Museum of Art.
During the stroll, participants engaged in a fun scavenger hunt, discovering public art pieces, identifying historical markers, and sharing stories about the local museums and their favorite exhibits. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect over shared interests and chat about summer activities.
The second part of the event, the Sip portion, took place at the local Mulberry Bar. Members and friends gathered for a networking happy hour, where they mingled, discussed travel plans, and enjoyed each other's company on a beautiful summer day. It was a perfect blend of culture, conversation, and camaraderie.
Tech It Out 2024
Embark on the Future: Reimagine with AI
Our Tech It Out 2024 event, themed "Embark on the Future: Reimagine with AI," was a phenomenal success, focusing on the transformative potential of Artificial Intelligence and its impact on our work and lives. Hosted at the prestigious Union League of Philadelphia, the event featured insightful presentations and discussions from industry leaders such as the Pinnacle Group, Comcast, Unisys, Microsoft, TEKsystems, and more. Attendees explored cutting-edge advancements in AI, automation, and their implications across media, entertainment, and technology sectors. The event provided an excellent platform for networking and professional growth, leaving participants inspired and equipped with new strategies for navigating the evolving tech landscape. Thank you to all who attended and made this event unforgettable!
Mentorship Kick-Off Event
I attended the first workshop for the WICT Mentorship Program on Thursday June 23rd that was led by Marina Field, Ph.D. The focus for this workshop was Embracing Your Strengths and truthfully while I was completing the pre-work for this workshop, I was a bit skeptical. I knew I was going to be walking into a room full of very accomplished, talented women (and after arriving a handful of men too) so of course my first thought was self-doubt. Once in the room I looked around and that first thought of self-doubt really set in, until the presentation started. After covering the basics of what a mentorship is we jumped into the workshop and I was expecting to start off with what are your strengths, but to my surprise Marina led with what we think holds us back. As everyone around the room was sharing, I started to realize that a lot of us deal with the same beliefs that are inhibiting us. Within 15 minutes of being in the room my self-doubt was shattered, and I realized the only thing that stands in the way of accomplishing my goals are the doubts I have about myself. This first workshop was very eye-opening in more ways than one and that excites me for what’s to come. In joining this mentorship, I had hoped to grow my network and find the best paths to achieve the professional goals I set for myself. After attending this workshop, I realized that I’m also going to be shattering the glass ceilings that I had built to limit myself.
Provided to us by: Danielle Feudale, ServiceOne Project Manager – Comcast Business
Empower Your Career Path:
Career Development Workshop
Our most recent WICT Great Philadelphia Chapter networking event hosted by Slalom was an electrifying blend of connection and professional insights. The event hosts, embodying the essence of connectivity, curated an atmosphere brimming with energy and warmth. Lauren M. Kramme, representing Judge, delivered a powerful message: women's resumes are impeccably crafted and just need a second look, reinforcing confidence in attendees. Slalom's vibrant, modern office provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful exchanges, complemented by delectable snacks and drinks.
Lauren's discourse on the corporate hiring landscape illuminated trends and emphasized the pivotal role of AI in recruitment. Attendees engaged in intimate discussions, delving into resume refinement and strategies to stand out in a competitive job market. The event facilitated one-on-one resume reviews with Lauren and TA experts from Comcast, fostering personalized guidance.
The inclusion of headshot sessions added a professional touch, with photographers adeptly capturing participants' essence. Overall, the event transcended networking norms, fostering new connections and empowering conversations around job search challenges. It offered a sanctuary amid the tumult of job hunting, leaving attendees inspired and equipped for their professional journeys. Don't miss out on the next opportunity to be part of this transformative experience!
Provided to us by: Shradha Doshi – Sr. Agile Product Owner, Comcast Product Management and Strategy
Gearing up in 2024:
Morning Networking with WICT
On Wednesday, January 24th, the WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia Chapter kicked off the year in style with its first networking event, "Gearing up in 2024: Morning Networking with WICT." Held at the bustling Termini Brothers in the Comcast Center Concourse, the event buzzed with excitement from the moment the doors opened at 8:00 am.
With over 85 attendees, people sporting name tags adorned with their favorite movies (a clever icebreaker!), gathered to connect, share stories, and discover common ground. Instead of my usual morning routine of scrolling emails and mentally preparing myself as I review my meeting schedule for the day, I was interacting with others, learning about their interests, and chatting about movie selections over coffee and pastries – a very nice change to start my Wednesday morning.
As the morning unfolded, people continued to arrive from companies including Amdocs, Comcast, Slalom, and Pyramid Consulting just to name a few. I spotted a few familiar faces offering an opportunity to connect on a personal level beyond the daily to-dos and tactical meeting agendas. Amongst the tenured members and volunteers, it was great to meet new connections as well – some who just happened to find out about the event by chance and are interested in joining the WICT community!
Throughout the event, the Concourse hummed with an undeniable energy, fueled by coffee and connection. It was a whirlwind of introductions, laughter, and shared moments, leaving everyone feeling empowered and grateful to be part of this supportive and inspiring network.
The "Gearing up in 2024" event was just the first chapter in the WICT Network's exciting year ahead. Stay tuned for more opportunities to connect, learn, and grow alongside this incredible community of women.
Provided to us by: Stephanie D’Amore – Sr. Manager, Comcast Finance Risk Management; WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia Chapter Board Member
My Climb and End of Year
Celebration of Empowerment
Wednesday November 8th, saw the WICT Philadelphia’s final event of the year. A panel discussion; My Climb up the Corporate Ladder. Moderated by Melissa Merriman of AWS.
The panel discussion revolved around the diverse career journeys of three incredibly experienced women: Traci Gusher, Principal lead consultant at EY; Loren Hudson SVP & Chief Diversity Officer at Comcast and Jennifer Metz, VP of Product Management at Paramount+. They discussed personal branding, networking strategies, mentorship vs. sponsorship, handling setbacks, and advice for career growth.
Traci highlighted her pivot from starting out teaching to a working in a startup, emphasizing problem-solving, adaptability, and courage in pursuing a new path. Coming from a startup background myself, I resonated deeply with the multifaceted nature of the roles one tackles. It's a world where you dive into a myriad of responsibilities, from handling payroll to rolling up your sleeves and building webpages from scratch!
Loren shared her evolution from HR aspirations to redefining her goals, focusing on understanding and shaping personal branding through feedback and vulnerability. Jennifer discussed her transition from journalism to technology, emphasizing authenticity and curiosity as integral to personal branding.
Traci emphasized continuous learning and empathetic leadership as essential components of her personal brand. She also addressed the importance of understanding imposter syndrome and the significance of deliberate mentorship and sponsorship in career growth.
The discussion covered evolving networks with career progression, leveraging social connections, attending industry events, and using social media like LinkedIn to expand professional networks.
The panel underscored the difference between mentors and sponsors, highlighting the latter's crucial role in advocating for career advancement opportunities. They stressed the need for deliberate goals in mentorship and the organic development of such relationships.
Regarding setbacks, Loren shared her experience of not securing a promotion, emphasizing the importance of actionable feedback to drive improvement. Jennifer reflected on a frozen role and subsequent evaluation of opportunities aligned with her career aspirations, emphasizing the significance of meaningful career choices.
Lastly, the panelists offered advice: Jennifer encouraged using one's voice to advocate for team members; Traci spotlighted the importance of not being afraid to ask for what you want; and Loren stressed the significance of caring for and uplifting peers in the professional journey.
Overall, the panel highlighted the importance of adaptability, authenticity, continuous learning, deliberate networking, and advocating for oneself and others as crucial elements in navigating a successful career path.
It was one of the most empowering panels I've ever had the pleasure of attending, marking a perfect conclusion to a year filled with fantastic WICT Philly events. The night wouldn't be complete without dinner and dancing! I'm sure everyone is eagerly anticipating the schedule for next year's events.
Story Time: Sparking Your Growth, Journey & Resilience
On Wednesday evening, October 25th, I attended “Story Time: Sparking Your Growth, Journey & Resilience” event hosted by WICT Greater Philadelphia. Ricki Lang moderated the event with authors Nicole Faust Cohen and Megan Miller.
After introductions they jumped into a conversation that I personally found very compelling. Authenticity and confidence were key discussion areas. It starts with us finding our authentic selves and rewriting the narrative that many of us have on autoplay in our heads. Confidence is centered in finding what is right for us and in bringing our true self to work. Taking time to find a centering practice can be very helpful in nurturing confidence. The insights and stories shared by Ricki, Nicole and Megan help us to normalize our own experiences. Stories have the power to transform us and others as we have so much more in common than different. During Q&A the questions kept coming from the energized and inspired audience.
One question on resiliency offered advice to learn the lesson offered by the adversity, to control our response, then to focus on what’s next. A raffle was held to end the evening and several lucky participants took home a copy of Nicole’s book, “Improv at Work” or Megan’s book. “Voices of the 21st Century: Women Transforming the World”. I did not win a copy of ether book but plan to purchase my own copies to continue to learn and grow from these amazing women.
Provided to us by: Celia Engman, Executive Director-IS Solutions; WICT Member & Volunteer
2024 WICT PHILLY GIVE BACK
A WICT Signature Event
This year, we are thrilled to announce a partnership with Unite for HER, a local foundation that provides integrative therapies to those diagnosed with breast and ovarian cancer. In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, all proceeds from the raffle, silent auction and monetary donations will go directly to Unite for HER.
Please join us in congratulating our 2023 Award Winners!
THE Ally Award - Gina Mingioni (SVP, Strategy & Operations, Comcast Advertising and Xumo)
The Advocate Award - Nicole Bucala (VP & GM, CTS Cyber Security - TPX CTS, Comcast)
The Excellence Award - The Judge Group (International leader in business technology consulting)
The Women to Watch Award - Shikha Miglani (Founder, CEO/Chief Captain, Saarthee)
We are excited to recognize the achievements of these outstanding industry leaders!
Help Us Make a Difference:
You can still make a donation that proceeds Unite for HER. Donate Now