Dear The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia,
It is hard to believe that 2022 is almost over. It is with great pride that I look over the last 2 years of my Presidency and see all of the amazing things the Greater Philadelphia chapter has accomplished. We have again managed through continuing concerns with the pandemic and other illnesses, return to office, and the repercussions of the “The Great Resignation”. Many have taken this opportunity to re-evaluate what is most important to ensure they and their families are happy and healthy. With all of this, there is a continued focus on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Our Chapter of over 1,000 members has continued to show up, stay connected and motivate each other. We were happy to see so many of you at the in-person events this year and are looking forward to more opportunities to meet and connect in the new year. We would like to thank you for your involvement, the endless commitment of so many volunteers and the ongoing support of our sponsors. We wouldn’t be able to continue our mission of creating women leaders who transform our industry and give back to our community without each one of YOU!
The Board of Directors continued to deliver high quality events and Programming with both in person and virtual formats to our members and Sponsors. We were able to accomplish the following this year:
190 New Members through outreach, raffles and virtual experiences offered. Welcome to our new member community!
Mentoring Program partnering with Julie Rohmer and Alicia Daugherty to create Mentoring Circles. The theme of the program was Your Leadership Journey, tailored to fit The WICT Network's mission and touchstones. The 9-month virtual program with 50 mentors/mentees focused on resilience, career vision, purpose, healthy boundaries, clear communication, and goal setting.
15 In Person and Virtual Programming Events with a diverse slate of relevant topics including: Resilience Workshop, featuring Loriana Aldama-Hernandez; My Climb Up the Corporate Ladder with industry executives including Lori Driscoll, Marie Lanzalotti, Melissa Repko, and Regan Yeldell, moderated by Kristen Billiris; EY Power Up Series, a 3-part series helping women find their power and purpose; Tips & Trickswith Amy Stran on how to put your best face forward in a virtual world; Executive Event, a 3 part series developed by Stella Grizont, which included topics such as How to Stay Sane, Resilient & Positive in Uncertain Times, How to Prevent Burnout, and How to Ask for What You Need.
17 Awarded Scholarships totaling over $30k including professional development opportunities and 8 College STEM Scholarships, as well as memberships and ticket costs for several events.
Tech It Out was a full day event with the theme of “Trending Technologies: Reshaping the Future” that celebrated cutting edge technology that impacts the telecommunications industry and our lives.
Strategic Communications to our members focusing on connecting with our members on social media platforms, LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
WICT Philly Gives Back was back in person this year at The Barnes Museum. The event supported Girls Inc. in Philadelphia, inspiring girls to be “Strong, Smart & Bold”. We recognized outstanding industry leaders through the following awards: Ally Award, Excellence Award, Advocate Award, and Woman to Watch. It was great to celebrate their achievements in person, while raising money for a great cause.
As 2022 comes to a close, The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia Board would like to give our gratitude for your partnership with us and thank you for being part of our The WICT Network: Greater Philadelphia family. As Chapter President, I am so proud to have served as the Chapter President for the past 2 years and look forward to supporting Yvette Thornton as she takes over the role in 2023. We are extremely fortunate to have a strong Board of Directors who work tirelessly to support our mission to Develop Women and Men Leaders Who Transform Our Industry.
Looking forward to 2023, I am excited about the plans already in progress for events, career and personal development and networking. On behalf of myself, our global organization and your Board of Directors, Happy Holidays and we look forward to a spectacular new year!
Carol Ann Sweeney 2021 - 2022 President
