Forward: Regaining Momentum for Gender Equity

Since March 2020, news headlines and personal accounts have been attesting to the particular toll that the COVID-19 pandemic and its disruptions have had on women. Often tasked with working and caregiving, many women are finding their career advancement and economic gains reversed. How can we regain momentum towards gender equity? The goal of this virtual symposium is to encourage resilience, community, and meaningful policy change.

The keynote speaker was Selena Rezvani, columnist for NBC News Know Your Value author, speaker and leadership consultant.

9:10 – 9:55 am
“Promoting Gender Equity: Advocacy in Action ”

Whether working with a community organization or leading culture change at work, we can encourage both systemic and individual progress towards closing the power gap for women. Learn ways to support ongoing initiatives and inspire momentum wherever you are.

Moderator:  Dr. Cynthia Turner, Assistant Dean, Fisher College of Business

Christine O’Malley, Chair, President and Provost’s Council on Women (PPCW), Ohio State    

Andrea Silbert, President, Eos Foundation, WomensPowerGap.org

Emily Quick Schriver, CEO, The Matriots    

10:00 – 10:55 am
“Pivot: What We Can Learn from Change”

In 2020, "pivot" became a buzzword for in-person events that went virtual and industries that began to focus more crucially on addressing COVID-19. But many people have also taken the opportunity of the pandemic to "pivot" their lives, health, and careers in more positive ways. Learn how to boost your adaptability and find your passion amid change.

Moderator: Marcy Lusk, Senior Staff Therapist, Counseling and Consultation Service, Ohio State

Christina Vera-Reid, Co-founder, Femergy

Molly Driscoll, Senior Director, Talent Acquisition, Ohio State

Erica L. Harris, Executive Coach, PurposeFULL Seed

11:00 – 11:55
What's So New About the New Normal?

This panel examines how the economic disruptions of the pandemic exacerbated many women's already existing financial insecurity, while inspiring some to pursue different opportunities. Speakers discuss the kinds of policies and practices we need to ensure the wellbeing of women and their families. 

Moderator: Dr. Beverly Vandiver, Interim Executive Director, Kirwan Institute for the Study of Race and Ethnicity

Dr. Rhonda Vonshay Sharpe, Founder and President, Women’s Institute for Science, Equity and Race (WISER)

Dr. Lauren Jones, College of Education and Human Ecology, OSU

Dr. Margaret Graham, Vice Dean, College of Nursing