Professional networks play a vital role in career advancement, yet women often navigate distinct experiences in building connections and advancing their careers. In an interview with the Financial Times, NYU Stern Executive Board member Susan Jurevics (MBA ’96) shared that, in her experience, “men appear to focus on concrete goals in perhaps a more transactional exchange, while women can be hesitant to self-promote or ask specifically for what they need.” Jurevics suggested that “alumni [organizations] will benefit by continuing to dialogue with women in various geographies, ages, and life or career stages to understand their needs and ambitions and develop initiatives that address these.” Her perspective underscores the importance of intentional programming to promote women’s professional growth and foster meaningful opportunities for advancement.

Stern alumnae gather at The Bowery Hotel for a fireside chat with (right) Adriana Alcântara (GSAS MA ’00) and (left) Susan Jurevics (MBA ’96)

For that reason, NYU Stern introduced the Stern Women’s Forum (SWF) in November 2024, described by the Financial Times as “a multigenerational community of female alumni, enabling them to support one another at different stages of their careers.” More than just a networking initiative, SWF reinforces Stern's commitment to leveraging the full economic impact of its alumnae. Through targeted career development, thought leadership, and strategic connections, SWF generates tangible value—not only for individual advancement but to reinvest alumnae expertise, leadership, and resources into the broader Stern community. With greater opportunities open to alumnae and all those invested in advancing women in business, SWF strengthens Stern's position as a top-tier business school that cultivates leadership and maximizes talent.

Stern alumnae gather at the SWF x CBHR Cocktails & Conversation on Equity in Investing event

To celebrate the launch of this initiative, Stern hosted a reception at Chief’s NYC Clubhouse alongside members of Stern's Alumni Council.

"SWF marks an exciting moment in how we serve and connect with our alumnae," said Erin Malone, executive director of Alumni Relations. "We're focused on creating new opportunities for mentorship and professional development among our extraordinarily accomplished graduates."

Cathy Choi (MBA ’96), president of Bulbrite and Stern Alumni Council liaison to SWF, delivered welcome remarks at the event. "Through our collective efforts, the Stern Women’s Forum will shine a light on this powerful community. We hope to inspire, and be inspired by, all of you.”

Stern alumnae and members of Stern’s Alumni Council pose together at the launch event, from left to right: Samantha Margolis (MBA ’18), Allison Kuhn (MBA ’23), Diana Charlite (MBA ’15), Executive Board Members Susan Jurevics (MBA ’96) and Elizabeth Elting (MBA ’92), Cathy Choi (MBA ’96), and Daisy Prince (EMBA ’23)

Stern alumnae socialize at the SWF launch event

Beginning in 2025, the Stern Women's Forum launched several impactful programs and offerings, including a quarterly digest that features alumnae work and life updates, faculty news, and upcoming events. Recent programming during Spring 2025 included:

• A panel co-hosted with Stern's Center for Business and Human Rights on gender equity in investing
• A screening of the documentary Show Her The Money, a film about women in venture capital
• A fireside chat at The Bowery Hotel with Susan Jurevics (MBA ’96) and Adriana Alcântara (GSAS MA ’00), author of Connections: The Importance of Networking and Building Relationships
• A discussion in partnership with the graduate MBA club, Stern Women in Business, with Stern Executive Board members Elizabeth Elting (MBA ’92) and Judy Lee (BS ’88), moderated by Sonia Maricano, professor of Management and Organizations at NYU Stern, and introduced by Interim Dean J.P. Eggers