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Get in on WIN: The Women’s Initiative Network

Posted in: Alumni News and Events

WIN

The Women’s Initiative Network (WIN) was created to engage Montclair State’s nearly 85,000 alumnae in the intellectual, cultural and educational life of the University. The group’s purpose is to create a vibrant community of alumnae and friends to inspire and empower women to become leading volunteers and visionary donors, increase the number of women meaningfully engaged in University programs, empower the next generation of leaders and strengthen ties between and among alumnae and the University through a strong network of women committed to supporting Montclair State.

Join us for our upcoming events! This Saturday, October 24, as part of our virtual Homecoming, join career and executive coach Tara Chiari, for a personal development workshop, Finding the Best Version of You through Self-Awareness.

Up next is another workshop, this time focusing on leadership development. Join Tara for Negotiation in the Workplace – Strategies for the Career Advancement of Women, in January 2021.  Negotiation is an essential skill for getting what you want in your career and in your life.

“While we understand its importance, the idea of promoting ourselves often feels uncomfortable. Besides, shouldn’t proving we can succeed in a position be enough to get promoted into it? Studies have shown that men tend to get promoted based on their perceived potential while women are promoted after proving they can do it. This “potential vs. performance” obstacle is often the result of unconscious gender bias,” says Chiari.

In this engaging presentation you will gain new insights and understandings about how to negotiate effectively on your own behalf and break the cycle of the ‘potential vs. performance’ roadblock.

“We are excited to grow this community and supportive network for each other and the mission of Montclair State,” says Jeanne Marano, Assistant Vice President for Annual Giving and Alumni Engagement. “No matter your age, professional discipline, background or career stage, all are welcome to join us – from senior executives to young professionals to entrepreneurs.”

In response to a survey completed by current WIN members, the focus of programs include mentoring, career resources, professional development and networking.

Past events include a leadership development workshop: Building Your Authentic Personal Brand as well as partnership with the Feliciano Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship’s Weekly Women Entrepreneurship, where alumna Tiffany Aliche ‘02, The Budgetnista, was interviewed as part of their virtual program.

If you are interested in joining the network, please complete this brief survey to tell us a little bit about yourself and join our group on MONTCLAIRconnect, the alumni online community. Here, you can pose a discussion, explore resources, and network with fellow alumnae. Plans for a virtual meeting in November will be sent to those in the community.

The Office of Alumni Engagement plans to host additional virtual discussions and planning sessions to gather input and feedback from members. Be sure to check your inbox and the group page for more information.

If you would like additional information regarding the Women’s Initiative Network, please contact Jeanne Marano at maranoj@montclair.edu or 973-655-4141.