Envision Your Success

By Karl Brisseaux
Undergraduate Stern Women in Business Conference lecture
Professionalism, networking, and lively discussion highlighted the Undergraduate Stern Women in Business’ (USWIB) fourth annual conference.
 
The conference was held on February 20 at Stern, and undergraduate women studying business throughout the New York metropolitan area were invited to participate in panels led by Stern faculty members and professionals representing top firms in various industries.
 
This year’s conference theme was “Envision Your Success.” Undergraduate students in attendance were encouraged to explore new fields, consider new ideas and learn important lessons from women who have enjoyed successful careers in business.
 
Elizabeth Hirsch, an executive officer of Praxair, Inc. delivered the opening keynote address. Hirsch received an MBA in finance from Stern, and currently serves as Vice President and Controller for Praxair, the largest industrial gases company in North and South America. She spoke to attendees about her career arc, and also shared advice about effectively managing time, responsibilities and energy in the workplace.
 
Undergraduate College Dean Geeta Menon, who delivered the conference’s introductory remarks, said that the USWIB conference has provided a forum for undergraduate women in business since the first conference took place in February 2012, during her first year as dean. Dean Menon, who was recently named to the Economic Times’ list of top 20 global Indian women, spoke about her career in academia, and encouraged students to seek out unique opportunities.
 
Helen Dayen, CEO and founder of The Dayen Group, delivered the closing keynote. Her company is a career and business development coaching business with a focus on enhancing the leadership, sales and communications skills of established professionals. Dayen received both her degrees from Stern – she studied finance and marketing as an undergraduate, and received her MBA in Management as a graduate student.
 
The day’s panels included discussions about breaking into the banking, marketing and consulting industries; collaborative workshops on negotiations and professionalism; and a career fair featuring several firms from a wide range of industries.
 
Founded in 2007, USWIB has dedicated itself to empowering women by promoting women’s initiatives and creating the foundation for a powerful, lasting network of business leaders. Throughout the academic year, the club’s members participate in various panels, networking opportunities, and a mentorship program dedicated to fostering personal and professional success.



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