On March 1, 2024, hundreds of alumni, supporters, parents, and employees took part in the 16th annual USC Women’s Conference on the University Park Campus.
ITS sponsored twenty-five women from ITS to attend the event, which was organized by the USC Alumni Association. The theme was “Embracing Your Power,” and kicked off by President Carol Folt. The day featured barrier-breaking industry leaders and a full schedule.
Many of those who attended found it inspirational and fun to see colleagues In Real Life (IRL)!
“It was an electrifying day at campus as we gathered for the 16th annual USC Women’s Conference. With the theme ‘Embracing Your Power,’ the event exceeded expectations,” said Harpreet Mehta, Manager, Software Engineering. “It was a day packed with inspiration, outstanding female leadership, meaningful connections, vibrant discussions, and empowerment.”
Susan Black, Director of the Project Management Office, added, “We had a great day at the women’s conference, celebrating each other and our power. We were inspired by our women in Leadership at USC—Carol Folt and Suzanne Nora Johnson—who reminded us to lead with empathy, ‘look to the empty chair at the table,’ and confidently go forward to realize real change. Proud to be a Woman of Troy!”
Roselynd “Rosie” Lopez, ITS Administrative Assistant, said a quote that stood out to her was, “Your network is your net worth,” from entrepreneur Clara Paye in the listening session for Empowering Women Entrepreneurs on their Journey.
Valerie Jung, Manager of Enterprise Data and Analytics, added, “The Women’s Conference was a fun and empowering experience. Surrounded by wonderful ITS women colleagues and meeting new faces, I enjoyed walking around our beautiful USC campus and attending diverse breakout sessions. Some of my favorite sessions included the inspiring President Folt’s introduction, but also ‘Vision to Victory, ’ the journey of three women entrepreneurs, and the impactful discussion on ‘The Power of Collaboration to Fight Cancer’ with a test that will be life-changing for all women. For more information, visit https://dornsife.usc.edu/news/stories/could-a-simple-blood-test-detect-cancer/.”
To learn more about the USC Women’s Conference, go to https://alumni.usc.edu/womensconference/