As we celebrate International Women's Day, we take pride in recognizing the remarkable achievements and contributions of women leaders in our community. In honor of this special occasion, we've had the privilege of catching up with a few extraordinary women leaders to delve into their inspiring journeys. From navigating challenges to seizing opportunities, these trailblazers have demonstrated resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
In our conversations, we've explored their career milestones, challenges they've overcome, and the invaluable lessons they've learned along the way. As we conclude our discussions, we've asked each of these remarkable leaders to share a piece of advice, imparting wisdom that resonates beyond their own experiences.
Join us in celebrating the achievements of these exceptional women and drawing inspiration from their insights as we continue to champion empowerment in our community and beyond.
Michelle Orsi
Senior Vice President, Capital One
Michelle Orsi's journey as a woman leader has been shaped by resilience, mentorship, and the pursuit of excellence. From a young age, Michelle's tenacious nature and drive propelled her to navigate challenges and pursue opportunities in the male-dominated commercial real estate industry. Through hard work, determination, and the guidance of mentors, Michelle learned the importance of confidence, poise, and commanding presence in leadership roles. Her leadership style emphasizes the empowerment and development of her team members, prioritizing autonomy and collaboration to foster a culture of growth and innovation. Michelle's commitment to supporting other women in the industry is evident in her advocacy for healthy mentorship relationships and the importance of finding female leaders who champion change and empowerment. As a prominent figure in her industry, Michelle continues to inspire and uplift aspiring women leaders, encouraging them to embrace their worth, pursue their passions, and lead with purpose.
A word from Michelle:
“As you continue to evolve and advance up the chains of command in the industry, don't lose the "why" factor. Don't forget "why" you chose this industry, "why" you chose to make a difference, and "why" you keep coming back for more. I would also encourage others to not underestimate their drive, passion, and willingness to hear and listen to others. If it matters to them, it should matter to you because it will shape you as a leader.”
Elizabeth Koehler
Managing Director, Head of Advisor Engagement, BlackRock
Elizabeth Koehler's career journey as a woman leader has been marked by adaptability, growth, and a commitment to fostering inclusion and well-being. Throughout her career, Elizabeth has embraced new challenges and opportunities, from navigating mergers and acquisitions to pursuing advanced degrees and designations. Her experiences have taught her the value of staying open-minded, asking questions, and listening attentively to others. As the founder of the Circles initiative, Elizabeth has spearheaded efforts to build connectivity and support among women colleagues, fostering a greater sense of community and well-being within the organization. Her approach to mentorship emphasizes the importance of confidence-building, encouragement, and helping others reach their full potential. Elizabeth's advice to aspiring women leaders is to lean into their strengths, embrace discomfort as a catalyst for growth, and trust in their ability to make a difference.
A word from Elizabeth:
“Lean into the things that give you energy. Tell other people about the strengths you see in them, it matters. Keep getting uncomfortable, because that means you’re growing. Finally, trust yourself. Instead of dwelling on what you haven’t yet done, make it a habit to remind yourself of all the things you are doing well right now. It builds confidence, contributes to performance and creates energy. And if you are like many of the wonderful professionals in my life – you deserve it.”
Kris Cobb
Senior Vice President, Investment Officer, Wells Fargo Advisors
Kris Cobb's journey as a woman leader has been characterized by overcoming challenges and redefining success in her career. As a single mother starting as a financial advisor 25 years ago, she faced the daunting task of navigating a male-dominated industry while balancing her responsibilities at home. Despite the initial hurdles, Kris excelled in growing client relationships and community impact, leveraging her strengths to drive growth and performance. Serving as the chairman of the board of a local non-profit expanded her perspective on success, requiring her to measure impact beyond financial metrics. This experience compelled her to ask more questions and embrace the journey of continuous learning and growth. Kris's commitment to empowering women extends beyond her professional endeavors, as she guides female clients in financial planning and business development, fostering empowerment and resilience in all facets of their lives. Her leadership style is defined by empathy, strategic vision, and a dedication to creating positive change in both her professional and personal spheres.
A word from Kris:
"My advice is to identify and write down your professional non-negotiables list. Then check in with yourself from time to time that you aren’t compromising the things that are most important to you. A flexible schedule is one of my non-negotiables and occasionally I have to say “no” to a good opportunity, knowing that it will ultimately lock my schedule up."
Alicia Alston
Vice President, Marketing Communications, Quad
Alicia Alston's journey as a woman leader has been marked by resilience, self-discovery, and a commitment to work-life integration. Early in her career, navigating the demands of single motherhood and a challenging work environment taught Alicia the importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing personal well-being. This experience instilled in her a belief in the power of flexibility and autonomy in the workplace, recognizing that professionally mature individuals thrive when given agency over their work. Alicia's leadership style reflects her passion for diversity and inclusion, evident in her pioneering efforts to address financial disparities in underrepresented communities. Through inclusive practices and diverse perspectives, Alicia fosters a culture of innovation and engagement, driving positive outcomes for both employees and organizations. As a mentor, Alicia emphasizes the value of candid feedback and objective guidance, drawing from her own experiences of mentorship to support others on their leadership journey.
A word from Alicia:
“Do all the things! Particularly when you’re young, you won’t know how much the universe really offers unless you dabble. And thankfully, the universe doesn't waste a single experience. It's the hard lessons from trying something new, especially the things outside of your comfort zone, that eventually smooth out your roughest parts so you can apply those learnings to the things you really want to do.
I read somewhere that Michelle Obama once said that for every extracurricular her kids were interested in, she also enrolled them in at least one thing they wouldn’t have thought to try. I apply that lesson with my children but also in my own life. There’s unique value in learning to do a hard thing and seeing yourself progress in something you never would have thought to try. I say for sure, do the things you love, and challenge yourself to take on something ‘out there.’ It’s hard, but so is anything worth doing.”
Katie Lattanzi
Vice President, Convenience Retail, Swire Coca-Cola USA
Katie Lattanzi's journey as a woman leader has been defined by pivotal milestones and transformative experiences that have shaped her leadership philosophy. Transitioning into her first Customer Team Lead role marked a significant achievement, challenging Katie to adopt a new mindset and approach to leadership. Embracing her role as a leader, Katie recognizes the importance of sharing vision, supporting her team, and fostering collaboration to drive success. Her leadership style is characterized by inclusiveness, transparency, and a focus on stakeholder engagement, evident in her successful navigation of tough customer negotiations. As a mentor, Katie is passionate about empowering women in the industry, particularly those navigating the demands of family and leadership roles. Drawing from her own experiences, Katie provides guidance and strategies for achieving work-life balance and professional fulfillment, inspiring others to embrace their unique journeys.
A word from Katie:
“I think Hard Work, Integrity, Authenticity, Transparent Communication, and Inclusiveness are all part of a successful formula.”
Kristin Bhavnani
Head of Global Corporate Communications, Jazz Pharmaceuticals
Kristin Bhavnani's journey as a woman leader has been shaped by pivotal milestones and joyful challenges. Throughout her career, she's been fortunate to have mentors and senior leaders who provided unwavering support and belief in her abilities, especially during moments of doubt. This invaluable guidance propelled her growth and instilled in her the importance of paying it forward. Balancing work and parenthood, particularly amidst the tumultuous times brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic, added a layer of complexity to her journey. Navigating through these complexities not only made her a more adept leader but also reshaped her approach to leadership. Serving on the leadership team of her company's women's affinity forum during this period was a defining experience. It allowed her to stretch her leadership skills while supporting and empowering other women within the organization. Taking on the co-chair role further solidified her commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where women can thrive. This journey reinforced the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership—traits that she continues to cultivate and champion in her professional endeavors.
A word from Kirstin:
"Find a way to truly know your own value. As women, sometimes we may look for external validation in our career (e.g. promotion, external recognition, etc). While external recognition of a job well done is wonderful, your value is not tied to that praise or advancement. Your belief in yourself can help you navigate times of change that we all face throughout our career."
Nika Gueci
Executive Director, University Engagement at Center: Mindfulness, Compassion and Resilience, Arizona State University
Nika Gueci's leadership journey embodies bold innovation and a steadfast commitment to holistic education. Steering ASU's Center for Mindfulness, Compassion, and Resilience from inception to fruition demanded navigating academic administration intricacies while advocating for educational paradigm shifts. Nika's unwavering belief in the transformative power of mindfulness and compassion guided her in spearheading initiatives like the "Foundations of Mindfulness and Resilience: Science and Practice" course. Co-creating this groundbreaking course reinforced her dedication to integrating mindfulness into leadership and promoting mental health and community well-being. Nika's mentorship approach centers on leading by example, embodying compassion, resilience, and authenticity to inspire aspiring women leaders. Drawing from her own experiences, she endeavors to embody qualities of compassion, resilience, and authenticity, serving as a guiding light for aspiring women leaders. Her commitment to empowering others underscores her belief in the transformative power of shared experiences and collective growth.
A word from Nika:
"To aspiring women leaders, my advice is multi-faceted. First, embrace your unique leadership style. Leadership doesn't have one look or approach; it's deeply personal and should reflect who you are and what you value. Second, cultivate resilience. The path to leadership is challenging, but it's your response to these obstacles that defines your journey. Third, seek out and provide mentorship. The insights and encouragement from those who have navigated their paths can be invaluable, and your experiences can, in turn, guide others. Lastly, never underestimate the importance of compassion, both for yourself and others. These qualities not only enhance your leadership but also foster environments where everyone can thrive.
My professional journey has taught me that leadership is not just about achieving personal success but about lifting others as you climb. It's about creating a legacy of empowerment, inclusion, and resilience that paves the way for the next generation of women leaders."
Catherine Szpindor
Chief Administrative Officer, U.S. House of Representatives
Catherine Szpindor's journey as a woman leader is a testament to the profound impact of continuous learning and calculated risk-taking. Throughout her career, she has embraced opportunities for growth and advancement, leveraging advanced educational opportunities to sharpen her management and leadership skills. A pivotal moment in her career came during her tenure at a major building products and paper corporation in the 1990s. Tasked with migrating to a new data warehousing product amidst skepticism from her management, Catherine's unwavering conviction and meticulous preparation paved the way for success. Her team's diligence and determination not only overcame initial doubts but also garnered prestigious recognition—the Smithsonian Award for Innovation—a testament to their ingenuity and perseverance. This experience instilled in Catherine a profound sense of confidence and resilience, shaping her approach to leadership ever since. At the forefront of her leadership philosophy is a steadfast commitment to nurturing talent and championing diversity. Recognizing the transformative power of mentorship, Catherine actively promotes events that focus on women in leadership, providing invaluable opportunities for mentorship and professional development.
A word from Catherine:
"I would encourage them to never give up on their goals and aspirations. It’s also important to watch and learn from other leaders. You can learn a lot by seeing how leaders you admire handle major hurdles in their careers. It’s also important to never quit learning and finding ways to improve your skills. Finally, seek out a mentor who is interested in helping you develop your skills as a leader."
Felicity Pino
Director of Performance Improvement, Children's Mercy Kansas City
Felicity Pino's journey as a woman leader has been a testament to resilience and adaptability in male-dominated fields. As an engineer, she embraced the challenges of celebrating differences and owning her uniqueness while working alongside predominantly non-female peers. Her design coursework at Stanford provided her with a human-centered perspective that she's applied throughout her career, challenging conventional processes. Her time at NASA instilled in her the belief that no problem is unsolvable, fostering a mindset of innovation and possibility. One of her proudest achievements came during her tenure as a Medical Innovation Fellow at the University of Minnesota, where she led a team in exploring gaps in medical care and developing innovative solutions. This experience taught her the importance of humility and curiosity in leadership, fostering trust and psychological safety within her team. Today, as the Director of Performance Improvement at Children's Mercy Kansas City, Felicity continues to leverage her diverse skill set to drive impactful change and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration within her organization.
A word from Felicity:
"Follow your heart! Loving our work – work that encompasses the majority of our awake hours – is not only possible, but essential. If the luxury of choice exists for a career path, take time to honestly hear your heart, and choose what you love."
Imanni Sheppard
Director of Medical Education & Social Scientific Research, The Medical Humanities and Health Disparities Institute
Imanni Sheppard's journey as a woman leader has been defined by her commitment to amplifying marginalized voices and creating opportunities for underrepresented individuals in academia. As a Black woman in academic spaces, she's faced stereotyping and marginalization, which fueled her determination to advocate for inclusivity and representation. Her first book, "Health, Healing, and Hurricane Katrina: A Critical Analysis of Psychosomatic Illness in Survivors," gave voice to those silenced by racial and societal injustices, inspiring her to prioritize honoring people's voices and experiences in her leadership. Drawing from her own experiences with mentors who pushed her to excel, Imanni pays it forward by mentoring the next generation of women leaders, encouraging them to embrace their excellence and authenticity in the face of adversity. In her role as the Director of Medical Education & Social Scientific Research at The Medical Humanities and Health Disparities Institute, Imanni continues to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion, driving meaningful change in healthcare education and research to address systemic disparities and promote social justice.
A word from Imanni:
"Be true to yourself. There will be lots of people who will try to dissuade you from achieving your goals, who will gaslight your ideas and your intellect, and who will try to disadvantage you with varied structural violences or economic oppression. They do not define who you are or what you're capable of. Stay the course and be true to yourself. Celebrate your own excellence, beauty, and intellectual prowess."
Maryanna Klatt
Director of Integrative Health, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center
Maryanna Klatt's journey as a woman leader has been marked by the absence of female mentors early in her career, a challenge she overcame through determination and resilience. Despite the initial lack of role models balancing successful careers and family life, Maryanna sought out mentors who embodied the integration of both, paving the way for her own leadership journey. Her groundbreaking work in burnout prevention and resilience-building, particularly through the creation of the Mindfulness in Motion program, stands as a testament to her innovative approach to healthcare. The program's impact, reaching thousands of individuals over the past two decades, reflects Maryanna's commitment to promoting well-being and resilience among employees and patients alike. As a prominent figure in her industry, Maryanna prioritizes mentorship and support for women striving to climb the leadership ladder, recognizing the importance of providing guidance and opportunities for growth. Her own experiences, including invaluable support from mentors like Dr. MaryJo Welker, have shaped her leadership style, emphasizing the value of authenticity, compassion, and work-life integration.
A word from Maryanna:
"Stick with it and do what you love. Find “ Your tribe” and lean into them- they will be invaluable supporters.
We all need that- life is a journey and we need those supports to help us both celebrate and share the rough spots.
You can do this!"
Ashleigh Hughes
Managing Director, Boys & Girls Clubs of America
Ashleigh Hughes's journey as a woman leader has been characterized by the pursuit of authenticity and the integration of personal and professional ambitions. Embracing her multidimensional identity, including roles as a senior executive, working mom, and outdoors enthusiast, has allowed Ashleigh to cultivate a sense of fulfillment and joy in her career. Her leadership style is defined by openness, connection, and a commitment to shared success, fostering environments where individuals can show up as their authentic selves. One of her proudest achievements lies in unlocking the collective potential of her team through vulnerability and authenticity, creating a culture of trust and collaboration. As a prominent figure in her industry, Ashleigh approaches mentorship as a pathway for professional growth and empowerment, providing valuable networks and guidance to aspiring women leaders.
A word from Ashleigh:
"I am reminded of the quote ‘Self-love, self-respect, and self-worth: there’s a reason they all start with ‘self.’ You can’t find them in anyone else.’ Filling your cup is not a destination, it’s a journey. Be intentional in all that you do. Challenge what it means to be bold. Celebrate one another. Believe in a future full of possibility. Enjoy the process of discovering what fills you up, what defines you and watch how it transforms your life. Rest when you’re tired. Refresh and renew yourself, your body, your mind, your spirit--then get back to work and do it all over again. When you do, you will find that the process of fulfillment and the final outcome are intertwined, and a sense of gratification and accomplishment naturally follow."
Melanie Tucker
Vice President, Talent Management & Development, Hartford HealthCare
Melanie Tucker's journey as a woman leader has been shaped by a commitment to intentional self-reflection and personal growth. From navigating the challenges of motherhood to embracing uncomfortable opportunities, Melanie's career milestones have been marked by resilience and self-discovery. A pivotal moment in her journey was the deliberate decision to define her leadership style and values, shaping her approach to leadership on a daily basis. Drawing from her experiences working in diverse communities around the world, Melanie emphasizes the importance of empathy, curiosity, and understanding in leadership. As a prominent figure in her industry, Melanie views mentorship as a reciprocal relationship, grounded in support, feedback, and shared experiences. Inspired by her own mentors, Melanie strives to create inclusive environments where individuals can thrive and grow.
A word from Melanie:
"I find most of us tend to suffer from Imposter Syndrome and that can sometimes get in the way of showing up with confidence. My advice is to show up anyway. Take the assignments and opportunities that feel too big, that is where the growth is. It’s ok to be a little afraid, a bit uncomfortable – do it anyway! One of my favorite sayings: What would you choose to do if you knew you could not fail? Remember you are not alone, there are always others that are willing to lend help, support, insights and the like."
Nadya Bliss
Executive Director of the Global Security Initiative, Arizona State University
Nadya Bliss's journey as a woman leader has been influenced by a legacy of strong female role models and a commitment to fostering inclusivity and innovation in her field. From a young age, Nadya looked up to the women in her family, including her mother, who served as a lead systems engineer at NASA, inspiring her to pursue leadership roles with confidence. Relocating to Arizona presented unexpected challenges but also opportunities for personal and professional growth, reinforcing Nadya's adaptability and resilience. As the founder of the Global Security Initiative, Nadya has spearheaded groundbreaking research initiatives, driving advancements in national security capabilities. Her leadership approach prioritizes transparency, creativity, and strategic risk-taking, creating a supportive environment for innovation and collaboration. As a mentor, Nadya encourages aspiring women leaders to take ownership of their paths, navigate obstacles with determination, and embrace the power of strategic decision-making in shaping their careers.
A word from Nadya:
“Don’t let others decide for you. You make the call. There are times in your life when you should say ‘yes’ more often and other times when really it should almost always be a ‘no’, but to the degree that it is possible and appropriate given your position, take ownership of your own path even in the face of obstacles.”
Madeline Pumariega
President, Miami Dade College
Madeline Pumariega's journey as a woman leader has been defined by her commitment to education, community, and empowerment. Returning to her alma mater as the first woman president of Miami Dade College was a significant milestone, allowing Madeline to reconnect with the institution that shaped her career and advocate for students across the state. Her leadership style emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and the pursuit of opportunities to advance student success pathways. Through initiatives like the Future Ready Scholarship, Madeline has worked to create transformative opportunities for students and shape the future of workforce development in her community. As a mentor, Madeline is dedicated to empowering young women leaders, providing guidance, support, and a nurturing environment for their growth and development. Her advice to aspiring women leaders is to stay true to their passions, believe in themselves, and embrace the collective power of collaboration and mentorship.
A word from Madeline:
“Together we can do it. Stay the course. Great things will happen. Follow that passion. Know that you can believe it, you can dream it, and you can do it. Believe in yourself, your abilities, and your dreams.”