Women’s Leadership Events

Connect, Learn, and Network

By coming together, we can expand our presence in the University community, build new relationships, and do more for URI women. The Council is always looking for ways to convene and share our ideas, experiences, and perspectives. You can learn about some of more most successful events below, and be sure there will be more to come in the future.

Women in Leadership Speaker Series

The Women in Leadership Speaker Series showcases the inspiring careers of the many successful alumnae and friends of URI and provides the opportunity to share knowledge and experience with students and alumnae.

We invite you to enjoy our previous programs:

• • Paula Bontempi, Ph.D.’01
  • Margo Cook ’86; Host: Nikki Noya ’00
  • Sixcia Devine ’99; Host: Elizabeth Demers ’03
  • Dr. Karina Edmonds ’92; Host: Michelle Saunders M.A. ’10
  • Christine Heenan
  • Netta Jenkins ’08: Practicing Bold Allyship
  • Silifat Mustapha ’97
  • Tolani Olagundoye, Pharm.D.’17
  • Kelly Lockwood Primus ’84: The Career Advice You Probably Didn’t Get
  • Tammi Reiss
  • Navyn Salem, Hon.’21; Host: Maya Vadiveloo, Assistant Professor of Nutrition and Food Sciences
  • Tracy Santos ’24
  • Lisa Weyandt, M.S.’87, Ph.D.’91

Brunch and Learn

Students had the opportunity to meet alumnae from a variety of professions, expand their networks, and prepare for life after college. Kelly Nevins ’90, M.A.’02, CEO, Women’s Fund of Rhode Island discussed the gender wage and wealth gaps that women (particularly those of color) face and provided tips to narrow that gap. Paula Testa, M.B.A.’94, senior vice president, Fidelity Institutional Client Experience, Service Platform & Solutions shared thoughts on why networking is important along with suggestions on how to network. Dr. Jayashri Sarkar Ph.D. ’08, founder, ImagiNexGen Institute of Excellence discussed strategies to overcome the stress, anxiety, biases, and fear that come with navigating student life and transitioning from student life to a professional life confidently. View photos from the event.

Celebration of Women in Leadership

The Celebration of Women in Leadership is a fireside chat and networking event that recognizes female-identified student leaders for their contributions to the University community. Our 2022 featured speaker was Anne Lipsitz ’83, M.A.’04, an independent career and executive coach with a focus on strengths-based leadership. View photos from the event.