The Women Achieving Victory through Empowerment and Strength (WAVES) Employee Resource Group (ERG) hosted a panel discussion featuring women in CUFO leadership roles on Thursday, March 20th in Uris Hall, Calder Lounge. Panelists shared their experience on a range of topics including navigating their career paths, maintaining work-life balance, speaking up in the workplace, and fostering positive team dynamics.
Here’s some of the wisdom they shared:
1. Stay Curious
“I find that, as you grow and get promoted within an organization, the decisions you make have broader impact. You need to understand why certain decisions are made. It’s important to ask your leaders: Why was that decision made? Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It gives you exposure to all the moving pieces in this vast enterprise.”
-Shari Colburn, Vice President for Real Estate
2. Be Yourself
“You live your life. You do your thing, and don't let anyone define you.”
-Annette Lopes, Assistant Vice President for Human Resources
3. Come Prepared and Ask Questions
“One of the things I always look for in my team is how things are presented to me and to leadership. If you’re coming prepared and you have questions ready to go and you’re able to answer my questions, that’s great. That means you’ve put in the work.”
-Antonella Contrera, Assistant Vice President for Campus Services & Academic Operations Financial Services
4. Don’t Wait to Be a Leader
“A title doesn’t make you a leader. Leadership is needed at every level of this organization. Ask yourself: If not you, then who? Take a chance on yourself. Trust yourself.”
-Leilani Reynolds, Director of Leasing Operations for Columbia Residential
Want to get involved? Sign up for ERGs on CUFOnet.
ERGs bring staff together around a variety of cultures and interests to provide networking and mentorship opportunities, facilitate educational programming, and foster an overall sense of community and belonging. All CUFO staff are welcome and encouraged to participate.
