ALKU Women Empowered (AWE) members rejoiced as the invites for the 2nd annual AWE Conference arrived in their inbox.
For the first time, the AWE Conference was in-person with over 180 incredible women from across our offices in attendance. It wouldn’t be an ALKU event without our iconic swag boxes. The boxes were sourced from Lux Box and filled with products from women-owned businesses! This year’s theme was Building Your Story, conveyed through a line-up of speakers, exercises, and panels.
The speaker’s series kicked off with Transformational Branding Strategist & Business Coach, Amber Lilyestrom. Amber talked about taking steps to achieve personal and professional dreams despite the size. With each dream shared, you could feel the inspiration in the air grow.
After a short break from networking, Insight Global Vice President, Sales Lindsay Vignone, took the stage. She shared her career journey and what she believes has contributed to her advancement. Throughout her speaking segment, she emphasized that learning lessons are the bedrock of development.
Next up was ALKU’s Vice President of ERP, Nick Vignone, and Vice President of Healthcare IT, Dave Tuell, aka the boys! Nick and Dave started by spotlighting inspiring women in leadership at ALKU and expressing their support for AWE.
Following lunch overlooking the Boston skyline from the State Room, Chief Marketing Office at Career Builder, Kristin Kelley was up! She spoke about her mission for everyone to find meaning in their work through the building of their story. Through eye-opening exercises and conversation, it’s safe to say, mission accomplished!
After a quick coffee break, the panel discussions began with the founders of AWE; HR Business Partner, Kate Lelievre, Vice President of Finance and Strategy, Kathie Eldridge, and Vice President, Leah Bourdon. All three women have been with ALKU since its inception and are in executive leadership today. This panel emphasized the impact these women have had on the women of AWE and the company itself.
Before we knew it, it was the last panel discussion with Partner at Burns & Levinson LLP, Beth Myers; Chief Diversity Officer, Yemi Mahoney; and Executive Director of the ALKU Foundation, Vanessa Plant. Inspiration filled the room as their stories about balancing career and motherhood were told. The day wrapped up with a happy hour and passed appetizers!
We’re counting down the days to the next AWE conference! But in the meantime, learn more about our DE&I initiatives!