Students Inspired at 85 Broads Event on Campus

The program was titled “Career Insights,” but it also could have been called “Career Inspiration.”

Students at a recent on-campus event hosted by the 85 Broads Northern New Jersey chapter said they walked away inspired to build their own careers or start a business.

“I got a lot of empowerment for my vision. I keep getting told my vision won’t work,” said Ashley Zahabian, a freshman biology major. “These entrepreneurs really inspired me to follow my vision.”

The event, “Career Insights from Women in Science, Technology, Entrepreneurship and More,” featured a panel of successful women talking about their professional journeys, and the challenges they have overcome. The panel was moderated by Elaine Meryl Brown, former VP of HBO and co-author of “Little Black Book of Success,” and included:
•    Victoria Spadaro-Grant, global VP R&D, Mars Chocolate
•    Lee Ann Murray, CIO Technology & Operations, MetLife
•    Lisa Brooks-Greaux, Global Head Learning & Development, Zoetis Pharmaceuticals
•    Tara O’Meara, Senior Director, Clinical Operations & Adrenoleukodystrophy Program Leader, bluebird bio, Inc.
•    Kimberly Duffy-Wylam, President & Managing Partner, Vantagen

Topics covered by the panel included taking risks, the importance of being authentic, how to deal with blind spots or weaknesses, entrepreneurship and the prevalence of women in STEM jobs.

Ally McDonald, the global president of 85 Broads, kicked off the event by talking about the value of networking, and encouraging attendees to step out of their comfort zone and to make networking a part of their everyday life.

Eunice Choe, a sophomore business management major, was encouraged that high-level women came to campus to inspire younger women. Choe said the program taught her: “Be unique and stand apart from the basics of what everyone else has right now.”

Kristen Johnson, a junior fashion studies major, was impressed with what she heard.

“85 Broads is like a sorority without the extra to-dos,” said Johnson. “It’s cheaper, you don’t have to go through the hazing rituals. It’s career-oriented, and you get what you need.”

The event was sponsored by Vantagen, a human resources boutique firm that is a ParenteBeard affiliate company. The Feliciano Center for Entrepreneurship also supported the program.