Laurier series celebrating women leaders returns with four virtual panel discussions

May 11, 2021
For Immediate Release

Waterloo – Wilfrid Laurier University’s series Elevating Laurier Leaders is returning this spring with four virtual events featuring accomplished alumni speakers committed to advancing women's leadership. Through these events, Laurier is establishing a community from diverse industries and backgrounds who are dedicated to supporting each other in their journeys. 

“We are excited about the continued strong interest in the Elevating Laurier Leaders series. It speaks to the timely and relevant conversations facilitated at these events,” said Deborah MacLatchy, Laurier’s president and vice-chancellor. “I am looking forward to another year of connecting with the community and learning from our panelists.”

The first event in the series, The "M" Word: Exploring Motherhood in the 21st Century, will be held May 19 from noon until 1:30 p.m. and will explore the changes, challenges and triumphs mothers have experienced since the turn of the 21st century. Panelists will share their diverse experiences and perspectives, as well as stories and research, on the topic.

Speakers include Cynthia Comacchio, professor in Laurier’s Department of History; Selda Sezen, adjunct professor at Martin Luther University College and Laurier’s Muslim chaplain; Glenda Wall, professor in the Department of Sociology; and Teri Lane (MSW ’15), founder and therapist with Thriving Families Counselling. The event will be moderated by Tarah Brookfield, associate professor in the departments of History and Youth and Children’s Studies.

The second event will examine the changing nature of modern careers. Moderated by MacLatchy, a diverse panel of alumni, including the founder of a culinary training centre and an HR consultant, will explore how they overcame self-doubt to make connections, leverage their skills and change their careers and their lives. Career Pivots: Reinventing Yourself in an Ever-Changing World will be held on May 27 from 8 to 9:30 a.m.

Panelists include Michele Bush (BA '89, DIPL '90), principal of Meglyn Consulting and co-founder and trainer of ElevatingHR; Pam Fanjoy (BA '93, MSW '00), founder and CEO of Fan/Joy Culinary Counselling and Training Centre; Anushila Shaw (BBA '07), a self-employed fashion and portrait photographer and former lawyer; Rachel Gainer (MA '09), the manager of the Alexa Beta Program Team at Amazon and a former not-for-profit executive.

In the fall, the series continues with The Power of Authenticity, about navigating personal and professional identities, on Oct. 15, and Failing Forward: From Trials to Triumphs, about risk, failure and success, on Nov. 18.

All Elevating Laurier Leaders events are free. Everyone is welcome. Registration is required.