Students and faculty gathered in Baker University Center for a variety of events and sessions, most revolving around the idea of altruism at the fourth annual Ohio Women Making a Difference Conference on Thursday.
The theme of the conference networking reception was “Women and Whimsy,” inspired by the lecture topics of the keynote speakers, especially Marcia Cham, said Dorothy Schey, director of development for Ohio’s Division of Advancement.
This year’s keynote speakers for the conference, which was sponsored by Women in Philanthropy, included Julia Paxton Pagan, who spoke about her work, and Marcia Cham, who talked about important life lessons learned from Dr. Seuss, said Kristine Hoke, conference and programming co-chair for Women in Philanthropy.
“We also have a diverse range of session topics that are open to all students and attendees,” Hoke said.
The sessions included “Influencing Change,” “Building Entrepreneurs: Lessons Those Who Have Paved the Way,” and a networking session, Hoke said.
Attendees also had the chance to participate in a silent auction called “Power of the Purse,” which included vacation package bags, designer purses, coin purses and children’s bags.
“The variety of the items appeal to a very diverse group, which is the best part of WIP,” Schey said. “All ages and backgrounds come together for a great cause, to help Ohio University.”
Participants and members also had the chance to take a trip to Templeton-Blackburn Alumni Memorial Auditorium for the Kennedy Lecture featuring Lilly Ledbetter’s lecture on the Fair Pay Restoration Act for equal rights in the workplace on Thursday night.
“WIP supports financial literacy for Ohio University students, leadership, and programming to connect alumnae with one another and with students,” Schey said. “This conference is a great example of philanthropy.”
More than 100 people were in attendance at this year’s conference and it is still being determined how much money was raised overall at the conference.
“I hope that conference attendees leave with a sense of renewed energy and passion for their goals,” Hoke said. “The conference provided excellent opportunities for attendees to learn about themselves personally and professionally.”
hr332511@ohiou.edu
