The Legacy of Inspiring Inclusion by passthetorch

The Legacy of Inspiring Inclusion

Pass the Torch Community,

We want to express our deepest gratitude for your endless support. With your dedication, Pass the Torch for Women Foundation has positioned itself to be the mentoring arm and the catalyst for change within our Central Indiana community and beyond. The Foundation continues to strive to advance women in the workforce and empower all women in various sectors and career paths through meaningful mentorship relationships.

We want to express our deepest gratitude for your endless support. With your dedication, Pass the Torch for Women Foundation has positioned itself to be the mentoring arm and the catalyst for change within our Central Indiana community and beyond. The Foundation continues to strive to advance women in the workforce and empower all in various sectors and career paths through meaningful mentorship relationships.

This International Women’s Day 2024, we are excited to launch our first ever MORE zine featuring our incredible Legacy Leader Community members of this past year. We are grateful for these amazing who poured their hearts into the mission of at the both their financial support and their time committed as mentors.

This International Women’s Day 2024, we are excited to launch our first ever MORE zine featuring our incredible Legacy Leader Community members of this past year. We are grateful for these amazing individuals who have poured their hearts into the mission of mentorship at the Foundation, both through their financial support and through their time committed as mentors.

This exclusive edition celebrates the achievements of the Foundation, sharing stories and highlights of the amazing women and men who make this organization a critical part of our community. We recognize that our vision to eliminate the gap in pay equity and support the increased presence of women decision-makers is a collective effort, and we would not be where we are today without your support.

Thank you to all of our generous partners, funders, mentors, mentees, staff, and volunteers for supporting our crucial efforts to advance women in the workplace and all parts of society.

With Joy,

We want to express our deepest gratitude for your endless support. With your dedication, Pass the Torch for Women Foundation has positioned itself to be the mentoring arm and the catalyst for change

P a s s t h e T o r c h f o r W o m e n T e a m a n d B o a r d o f D i r e c t o r s

the Torch Community, Pass the Torch for Women Team and Board of Directors

Pass

INDIA BROWN

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community?

CEO PMPHASE

As a minority business owner, I was looking for an opportunity to give back to the community of business owners who need personal and professional support

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

Inspire Inclusion means that I have and look forward to owning the responsibility of ensuring that everyone has a space where they can unapologetically be themselves.

RACHEL STEVENS

RACHEL STEVENS

Sr. Director, Human Resources (Exec VP) The Indianapolis International Airport

Why did you join the Legacy Leader Community?

I believe that every woman leader owes it to the next generation to be a hand-up. I would not be where I am today if it wasn't for the mentors, coaches and executive sponsors in my career and I want to be that person for someone else.

What do you think needs to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world?

Women need to support each other. It's not always about the other gender holding things down. Many times women hold each other down for their own purposes and instead of seeing someone else succeed where they did not, they will dismiss the achievement. Let's stop doing that. If you hear a great presentation or even see someone on the street with great shoes, tell them that. The small boost to the confidence can be amazing for that person.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Be open to new ideas. Be open to transferrable skills taking you to places you may not have originally thought about.

AKILAH AKILAH DARDEN DARDEN

President & Founder

The Darden Group, LLC

What does "Inspire Inc

Inspiring inclusion means fostering an environ ent where diversity is not just acknowledged but celebrated. It involves actively promoting equity, ensuring that everyone has equal opportunities to thrive regardless of their background. It's about creating a workplace where every voice is heard, perspectives are valued, and individuals from diverse backgrounds feel a genuine sense of belonging. My time as Board Chair for Pass the Torch for Women was to not only inspire inclusion but to create leadership opportunities for women of color

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Mentorship is a powerful catalyst for women ' s success, providing guidance, insights, guardrails, roadmaps, and a support network. Mentoring enables personal and professional growth, empowering women to overcome challenges, succeed through adversity, and tried avenues to thrive in their careers. Mentoring, for women, provides an avenue to let you know you are not alone.

AMANDA RICHMOND

AVP Wealth Operations Program Elements Financial Federal Credit Union

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community/why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

The empowering way this organization provides support and collaboration to women made me want to join. To lean into women in a time of their journey where they need a mentor, I find a privilege. Pass the Torch provides me with this opportunity that I find to be priceless.

What is the best advice you have recieved in your career? What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

The best advice I was ever given was from a wise manager. He said, if you want to be successfully you have to learn to be accountable. Whether a situation was your fault or not, take ownership, responsibility, and hold yourself and others accountable. An advice I would give is give yourself grace! No matter where you are on your career journey you don't have to have all the answers right now. Learn, experience, grow and remember to give yourself grace when you don't know it all that moment.

ALLISON ALLEN

Director, Audit and Assurance Services

Katz, Sapper & Miller

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

Inspire Inclusion means that we as mentors should be setting the example to ensure that everyone who should be at the table is at the table, no matter what their background is We are all better together and future generations are looking to us to change the narrative.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

To stand up for herself and to know her worth. Listen and soak in as much knowledge as you can, but make sure to be heard when you have something to say

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

By ensuring that their business model/working conditions are supportive to what women need throughout all aspects of their career and personal life.

ARIEL CRAWLEY

Community Engagement

Indy Women In Tech

Why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

I believe it is important to help the next generation of female leaders. Being a member of the organization allows you to help at the ground floor and see young women grow to become the amazing people they are meant to be!

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Network - speak to others about your career goals. Embrace new communities through events and outings. Be open to meeting new people. Share your journey and ideas with others.

Head of Strategy and Events - Owner, The Function at MB4 Productions

What does "Inspire Inclusion" mean to you?

It is one thing to be in diverse communities, to see and respect diverse, but it is a deeper commitment to ensure we are 100% leading inclusive lives.

What do you think needs to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world?

Women will be behind gender equality, as we have been all along, but to reach a truly equal future it will take women and men working hand in hand to ensure that future.

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community/why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

I saw this as a community that makes space to lift each other, a great network all aligned to the same vision of empowering women while ensuring that we women empower ourselves.

AMY DUDAS

Attorney, Dudas Law

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community/why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

I love how pass the torch supports a creative way fro women to empower other women, for women to be embraced and celebrated as powerful leaders. I hope to inspire and be inspired by so much of that energy.

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Women have traditionally not been included in environments that advance the "it's who you know" part of that intentionally exclusionary saying. No one told us that learning to play golf could be more important than graduating at the top of your class. Women who know a lot have a lot to offer women looking for ways to meet their goals and exceed expectations. Fostering an environment that nurtures the open mind and collaborative heart will spread more peace and harmony than any old rat race ever did. After all, who wants to hang out with a bunch of rats, only one of whom can "win?" There's room for all of us here, and positive relationships through mentoring is a great way to include as many of us as possible.

AMBER FIELDS

Chief Culture Officer & Partner

TrueU & ML Talent Strategies

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

Invest in them, help them grow and reach their highest potential. Give them opportunities that may have not been available to them previously. Pay them appropriately in comparison to their male counterparts.

What do you think needs to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world?

Help women get into positions of power, empower more mothers and create work environments conducive to being a working mom and again investing in them to help them get to where they need to be and want to be.

STEPHANIE EWING

Corporate Banker

Old National Bank

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

Inspire Inclusion means that we are actively leading by example and providing feedback to others to ensure we are living and working in environments that foster a culture of belonging.

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Mentorship is a fabulous way to learn and grow personally and professionally. The knowledge transfer, advice, and opportunities that flow both ways in a mentor relationship help both parties feel rewarded.

LUCIA MAR

SVP, Market Executive, Bank of America

What do you think needs to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world?

Significant economic development that gives women access to education and economic independence, and social attitude shift toward gender roles will need to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world.

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

Promoting women to leadership roles, supporting women with good benefits and strong diversity and inclusion policies will help their female talent flourish.

BETTY LONIS

Vice President, Human Resources

What does "Inspire Inclusion" mean to you?

To me, Inspire Inclusion means all are welcome, encouraged and valued. It means that each of us is unique and brings a unique perspective and experience which is valued and encouraged by our organization. We are better because of our uniqueness.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

I would advise her to build and leverage a strong, supportive network. Never be afraid to ask questions, continue learning, and lift up other women.

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community/why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

I believe in the mission of Pass the Torch for Women Foundation and wanted to get involved to help advance the mission of the organization. I have been blessed throughout my career to have some great mentors and wanted to be able to pay that forward mentoring others.

BRANDI DAVIS-HANDY

Chief Customer Officer, AES Indiana

What does "Inspire Inclusion" mean to you?

Inspire Inclusion makes me think of the critical role we all must play to make things more equitable for all women and create better pathways for those wanted to advance in their professional careers. I would challenge all of us to think about how we show up for other women when they are not in the room or at the table.

What is the best advice you have ever received along your path?

Don’t limit your possibilities because you don’t have the same experience as someone else or you think you don’t fit the mold.

How does mentorship make a difference for women?

It provides women with an extra person to support, encourage, listen, motivate, and care for them. Women need connection and mentorship is a way to provide that.

SANDY MILLER

Director Of Business Banking

Old National Bank

Why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

I think mentoring is the most powerful way to give back. I have had so many mentors help me in my career and I know it is a huge part of my success. I know that mentoring also helps me grow and challenges me to be a better leader and listener.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Most careers look more like a jungle gym then a laddar. It is ok to move down, over and up when navigating where you want to be.

REBECCA BORMANN

Founder & CEO

Rebecca Bormann Consulting

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

I’m fortunate to be an example and witness the profound impact mentorship has on women ’ s careers and confidence i am where I am today because of the numerous men and women who have guided and mentored me both personally and professionally. It was not only my mentor’s guidance but also access to essential networks, connections and resources that are often less accessible to women. Mentorship is critical for building cofidence and skills, amplifying th ecareer trajectories of women

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

To me, "Inspire Inclusion," this year ' s International Women's Day theme, resonates deeply with my core beliefs and my WHY. Inspire Inclusion is about creating spaces where every voice is heard, valued, and empowered It's about building communities where "lifting while we climb" isn't just a catchy phrase but a lived reailty As someone who is passionate about empowering women to realize their ambitions, this theme underlines the importance of breaking down barriers and eradicating discrimination It's a call to action for ensuring that women and all people from all backgrounds have the opportunity to achieve their full potential and live their wildest dreams It's about acknowledging and celebrating the rich diversity of experiences and perspectives women bring to the table and leveraging these for collective progress.

Citizens Energy Group is a proud sponsor of the International Women’s Day: Inspiring Inclusion Breakfast. Citizens believes inclusion unlocks the full potential of diverse perspectives and creates a workplace where everyone’s unique contributions are valued and embraced.

CASSIE BOGAARDS

Private Banker II, VP Old National Bank

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Women often find themselves working through problems or issues amongst themseleves and on their own. We need each other to help give advice, problem solve, and relate to each other on levels that men cannot. Mentorship helps women not feel alone and we can provide guidance through good times and tough times. Women do a lot of self-reflection, but it can usually lead to negative thoughts and having a mentor or a point of contact that sees you differently is so important to empowering women.

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

Give women a seat at the table! Women can step up and get things done so giving additional projects or opportunities to be more involved in what management is doing allows executive leadership to see what women are capable of. Women can have the stereotype of being "Emotional" at work but if we own it and steer that into something positive meaning that it is our ability to relate to people on a level men can't, we can gain more confidence in who we are and show our value at the same time!

JESSICA SIMPSON

Project Manager

Indiana University Health

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

To me, "Inspire Inclusion" means looking beyond what we think we know about inclusion and seeking opportunities to influence and encourage beyond the status quo.

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Mentorship makes a difference in the lives of women by providing a support system to enhance existing strengths while providing a platform to develop areas of need. What is key, is that Mentorship is a safe and constructive space with the end goal to empower a mentee to strive for their highest potential. As a mentor, to not share my experiences and strengths, my lessons and failures, to help another would be a waste of experience.

Girl Scouts of Central Indiana is a proud partner of Pass the Torch for Women

girlscoutsindiana.org

MACKENZIE PICKERRELL

Executive Director

Girl Coalition of Indiana inspired by the Girl Scouts

Why did you join the Legacy Leader Community?

I believe in the mission and work of Pass the Torch. I am passionate about empowering girls and women. It is vital that girls and women have every opportunity to succeed to reach their full potential I personally know the value of mentorship. I am honored to have received mentorship from many women personally and professionally. Through programs like Pass the Torch, women have access to the support necessary to identify and reach their goals It is essential to have a community around you that can be your sounding board when there is a struggle and a cheerleader when their is a win. When women are thriving, communities thrive. Pass the Torch provides an opportunity for so many women, including myself, to be in a supportive and empowering environment.

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

I want to double-tap on a statement released by the International Women’s Day campaign regarding the theme of Inspire Inclusion this year “When we inspire others to understand and value women ’ s inclusion, we forge a better world.” When women are included, especially in leadership roles, communities thrive, businesses have stronger ROI, and teams increase productivity and enhance dedication, and inspire organizational commitment. When women of all backgrounds are included and have a true seat (not just a physical seat but a true seat where their voice is heard and valued), everyone benefits

NIYA BLAIR HACKWORTH

Director, Office of Inclusion National Collegiate Athletic Association

Why did you join the Legacy Leader Community?

I chose to join the Legacy Leader Community because throughout my life, I’ve had women who have poured into me and continue to support me and serve as a role model. Therefore, i wanted to be a part of an organization that allows me to champion other women and pay it forward.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Understand your why for doing what you want to do and what yu are doing. And on the hard days or days you feel unsure, go back to your “why.”

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

By putting financial resources and supoort from the top down in their female initiatives. Also, to advance women in the same workplace ensure they are given the same opportunities as their male counterparts and combat unconscious bias which can impact women.

KATE MAXWELL

Microsoft Worldwide Education Industry Lead Microsoft

Why did you join the Legacy Leader Community?

I am a strong believer in the power of mentorship, especially for women and underrepresented demographics. The mission of the Pass the Torch for Women Foundation resonates with me, and I joined the Legacy Leader Community to support the work of the Foundation and help elevate women across Indiana, and beyond.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Be brave, and don’t worry about what other people think of you Know your truth, own your unique journey, and don’t accept opinions from those you would not go to for advice Women are often raised to be people pleasers (self included!), but peoplepleasing gets us nowhere. As a matter of fact, I believe it often holds us back from career growth Free yourself from the weight of other people’s opinions, be brave, bet on yourself, and own your journey.

What do you think needs to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world?

Challenge and disrupt harmful stereotypes and social norms, and engage men and boys as allies and partners in gender equality initiatives This is not a problem that affects only women and girls, nor is this a problem for women and girls to solve. We all have a part to play in advancing women and working towards gender equality

SUSAN OLIVER

Principal Content Strategist Salesforce

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community?

Pass the Torch facilitates relationship building. Supporting and encouraging other women to succeed, only helps make our community stronger.

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

Inclusion is about belonging... and we individually need to reach out to others to make sure they feel welcome.

VALERIE WESLEY

Associate Vice President of Human Resources

ProMedica Senior Care

Why did you join the Legacy Leader Community?

As I have developed in my own career, there have been very few women at the top, so it was difficult to find female role models to emulate. As I moved my career up the corporate ladder, I am committed to being a positive female influence and to advocate on behalf of other women and help find success in their own journey of growth.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Never be satisfied with where you are----invest in self-growth and education. We continue to develop and change who we are and what we want in life--so never stop exploring and looking for the next thing to bring you joy. Life doesn’t always go as we plan but always invest in yourself because no one can take your knowledge, your experiences, your memories, your values, and your personal growth away.

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

By recognizing and cultivating female employees for growth and leadership positions through education, promotion, and acknowledgment of their efforts. Invest in diversity and inclusion groups in the workplace and give females a place to discuss topics and come together to help foster an environment where all employees feel comfortable sharing their ideas and opinions, leading to better collaboration and productivity.

ANNA O’NAN CFO, Baker Hill

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community?

Through mentoring, Legacy Leaders create a tide that will eventually sweep away the “glass ceiling”, one talented Emerging Leader at a time.

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Mentoring teaches female leaders that even when they are the only women in the decision-making rooms, they are not alone.

What is the best advice you have ever received along your career path?

Fight for what is yours. Do not expect to receive it even if you deliver near-perfection.

SONIA SALVINO

Vice President of Finance, Academic Division at the University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center

What does "Inspire Inclusion" mean to you?

To me, to inspire inclusion is to have the drive to want to provide as much opportunity and access to many people and provide this to all!

What do you think needs to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world?

Respect! We need to respect one another as individuals regardless of their gender. We need to engage all people’s ideas and contributions and respect what they bring to the table.

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

Private enterprises can best invest in their female initiatives by investing in their success. By this I mean, they need to provide the tools to make them effective, but they also need to provide an inclusive working environment with a speak up culture so that no one is afraid to take the chance. They should also provide opportunities for females and males to collaborate on projects together as equals

MADELINE ROBERTS

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Mentorship makes a significant difference in women ' s lives because I have experienced it. Rather, former mentoring or reaping the benefits of the unspoken mentorship relationship is invaluable to personal growth. Mentoring has provided guidance, support, and professional and personal development opportunities. Mentorship also helps women establish valuable networks, access resources, and gain exposure to opportunities they might not have otherwise encountered.

What does "Inspire Inclusion" (this year ' s International Women's Day theme) mean to you?

Inspire Inclusion is all about, you know, making a place where everyone feels welcome, no matter who they are It's like not just saying it's okay to be different but making sure people feel respected and part of it. The idea is to make everyone belong, regardless of their background. People are people, and we all have issues, ways, and good and bad parts of being human, which is okay. I often wonder why people are so concerned about others instead of taking the time to see their perspective to make a person feel included. It does not mean you agree with them but that you respect them. It's not just about saying, 'Hey, it's okay to be you, but appreciating what each person brings. The goal is to eliminate barriers and biases and make things fair and supportive for everyone. Inclusion means talking openly, ensuring everyone gets the same chance, and stopping unfair treatment. It is about letting others know that they are seen and heard.

Customer Relations Manager, IKEA

KILEY WANECKE

Director of Community Health

Indiana University Health

Why did you join the Legacy Leader Community?

I am passionate about helping other women succeed. I am always looking for ways to be a go-giver to other young women starting and/or developing their careers. There are so many lessons learned over the course of my career and I like to pay it forward. Additionally, I love to learn from other women on their experiences and life lessons to guide my future path We can impact the world for the greater good so much more when we work together rather than alone.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Persistence and optimism are critical components for the longevity of your career. If you see a women that inspires you, don't be afraid to ask for her to meet you for a cup of coffee!

How can private enterprises best invest in their female initiatives and advance women in the workplace?

Investing their time into partnering with women colleagues in the workplace. Creating avenues within workplaces that cultivate a culture of inspiring inclusion.

LINDSAY SZOSTAK

Director of People Operations Sondhi Solutions

What does "Inspire Inclusion" mean to you?

For me, "Inspire Inclusion" means actively creating an environment that encourages openness and ensures that every individual feels genuinely valued and respected, regardless of their background or differences.

What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

Be confident in your abilities, speak up for your ideas, and don't shy away from seeking mentorship. Embrace challenges as opportunities, and build a network of support to navigate your career successfully.

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Early in my career as an entry-level recruiter, a female leader encouraged me to envision myself in her position. She provided the tools and empowerment I needed to pursue ambitious goals. Without her, I might not have achieved the growth I have today. Now, my goal is to empower every aspiring female leader to dream big, overcome imposter syndrome, and shine to their full potential.

TIFFANY TIFFANY TROTTER TROTTER

Chief People and Culture Officer Girls Inc., National Office

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community?

As a former Pass the Torch mentor, I cannot emphasize enough how mentorship empowered me to make confident decisions and take meaningful steps toward achieving my goals. The positivity and encouragement shared with me by my mentor not only boosted my self-belief but also instilled a passion for helping others along their career journeys. With heartfelt gratitude, I have embraced the opportunity to pay it forward by becoming a legacy leader, board member, and mentor myself. It brings me immense joy to pass on the knowledge and experiences that I have gained, in the hopes of inspiring and guiding others to reach their true potential.

What is the best advice you have ever received along your career path?

Feedback is a valuable gift. It can provide us with insights and perspectives that we may have overlooked, ultimately helping us become better

MICHELLE TRAVIS

Principal M2 Performance Strategies

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community/why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

As a career focused woman, I wish as a young woman, I would have had an organization like Pass the Torch for Women would have existed. It would have been wonderful to have similar minded, career women who would have helped guide me and I could have learned from rather than navigating it without that type of support.

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Mentorship not only helps provide guidance, knowledge and support, it also helps others know that they are not alone or on an island while facing situations along the way.

What do you think needs to happen to achieve gender equality throughout the world?

MONEY and power need to switch hands. The majority white and/or male demographic must be forced to seize control over money and power without questioning and fighting it. Time is up!

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community?

I want to interact with other women leaders and emerging women leaders because I have things to learn and wisdom to share.

Managing Attorney Hayes Young Law

SHAMIKA SHAMIKA ANDERSON ANDERSON

Chief Strategy Officer Y.E.S Consulting, LLC

What does "Inspire Inclusion" mean to you?

"Inspiration is the strong desire to create a goal or accomplishment through our creative instincts. When we practice inclusivity, we ensure that everyone has equal access to opportunities and resources. To me, inspiring inclusivity means being passionate about achieving the goal of providing all women with equal access to opportunities for achieving their goals, pursuing their vision, and creating their legacy. Let's be purposeful about it!"

How does mentorship make a difference in the lives of women?

Mentorship significantly impacts women ' s lives because we are often responsible for managing our families and making important decisions. Therefore, it is crucial for us to support and empower other women by offering mentorship. By doing so, we can help them achieve their goals and improve their communities. We should strive to lift as we climb so that women can continue to excel and reach their full potential.

TRICIA BERRY

Director, Clinical + Practicum Programs

Purdue Global

Why did you choose to join the Legacy Leader Community/why is the mission at Pass the Torch for Women Foundation important to you?

Robert Greenleaf said, "If a better society is to be built, one that is more just and more loving, one that provides greater creative opportunity for its people, then the most open course is to raise both the capacity to serve and the very performance as servant of existing major institutions by new regenerative forces operating within them " I love that Purdue embraces that philosophy by encouraging employees to serve and by role modeling service for our students. I believe that we make the world a better place when we are lifting others up, and all too frequently women do the opposite for one another. I wanted to do my best to contribute to making the world a better place for others, and especially for other women Pass the Torch is a wonderful way to serve in that capacity

What is the best advice you have recieved in your career? What advice would you give a woman as she navigates her career?

The best advice I was ever given was to define my values and stick to them, even when it is not easy to do so, and that’s what I would share as well. Additionally, give yourself grace when you make a mistakes - they are learning opportunities.

A few words

They say that art inspires art, and I think the same carries over on days such as today — women inspire women, and together we are stronger, more empowered, and most importantly, not alone.

MORE came to be because of inspiration cultivated by women sharing their voices, stories, hopes, and dreams. MORE was created to Make Opportunities Reachable for Everyone, and we’ve had the pleasure of partnering with the Pass the Torch for Women Foundation for two years in a row to uplift and share voices and stories of those mentoring in the community and those being mentored.

We are building our own tables, we are saving seats, and we are creating spaces where there is room for everyone. When we lend our time, together we are making knowledge and experiences more accessible to learn from, and together, we are Making Opportunities Reachable for Everyone.

Arianna Cruz, Founder of MORE

International Women’s Day 2024

In partnership with